Two Non Governmental Organisations, Belinda Babila Foundation and Peasants Economists Association have distributed relief materials to Cameroonian refugees in Akwa Ibom State.
Speaking during the donation ceremony on Thursday in Mkpat Enin local government area of the state, the CEO of Belinda Babila Foundation, Dr Belinda Babila, disclosed that the organisation has financially assisted over 10,000 refugees in Nigeria.
She said that the organisation’s aim is to alleviate and defeat poverty among women, youths and less privileged in the country.
Babila said that the relief materials would enhance the living standard of the refugees.
“We carry out empowerment programme for the less privileged refugees, youth and women. We served over 10,000 people in other parts of Nigeria during our last relief empowerment program. This is our first time in Akwa Ibom State,” she said.
In his remarks, the Executive Director of Peasants Economists Association, Dr Awah Akume urged the refugees to remain law abiding and stay clear of any form of criminal activities.
Akuma, who was represented by Mrs Anastasia Kuma, Assistant Director of the organisation said “all of you here in Akwa Ibom State must remain law abiding. Stay away from problems.
“We are just doing a relief service today because of the crisis in southern Cameroon. We came here today through the support of many people and I thank them for assisting us.”
Responding, one of the refugees in Uyo camp, Ms Tere Donatus, said that many of them left Cameroon because of the crisis.
“Before now, I was unhappy because I was suffering. I am grateful to Belinda Babila Foundation and Peasants Economists Association for extending a helping hand to us.
” I pray that God continues to bless you,” she said.
Another beneficiary based in Ekpok Community in Mkpat Enin LGA, Mr Emmanuel Usakem, who is a father of two said over he lost his wife, during the communal crisis in Cameroon.
Usakem expressed his appreciation to the organisations for their assistance.
He urged other spirited and kind hearted individuals to assist him financially to enable him establish small business and be self reliant.
“I lost my wife in Cameroon during the crisis. I am here in Mkpat Enin with my two sons.
“I am grateful to God for using Belinda Babila Foundation and Peasants Economist Association to bless us today. I wish that I can be financially assisted so that I can start up a business to take care of my sons.
Some of the relief materials distributed included, Bags of rice, beans, garri, Gallons of Palm oil, seasoning, table salt, tomatoes paste and first aid kits among others.
