By Nkechi Eze
In celebration of the Eid festivities, the Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Department (FEMD), in collaboration with the NEAR Foundation, has distributed meat packages to 150 displaced and vulnerable persons residing in the Federal Capital Territory.
The beneficiaries, drawn from Waru and Yimuthu internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, each received three kilograms of meat as part of the agencies’ efforts to ensure that displaced persons partake in the joy and communal spirit of the Eid celebrations.
According to an official signed statement by the agency’s spokesperson, Nkechi Isa, the gesture was aimed at supporting vulnerable communities during the Sallah period and promoting inclusion among displaced populations.
Speaking at the event, the Head of Relief and Rehabilitation at FEMD, Hajia Fatima Ibrahim, said the meat distribution was intended to enable displaced families to celebrate Eid with dignity. She expressed appreciation to NEAR Foundation for its sustained support to the less privileged, noting that such partnerships are essential in bridging humanitarian gaps.
“The support from NEAR Foundation over the past two years has been instrumental in reaching the most vulnerable among us. Today’s gesture is part of our continued joint efforts to restore hope and dignity to the displaced,” Hajia Ibrahim said.
Also speaking, the Project Manager of NEAR Foundation, Mr. Aliyu Harande, reiterated the organisation’s commitment to social responsibility and giving back to society, especially during festive seasons. He noted that NEAR Foundation’s collaboration with FEMD began two years ago and has continued to strengthen.
“We encourage other well-meaning individuals and organizations to emulate this spirit of compassion and reach out to those in need, especially during celebrations like Eid,” Harande urged.
Representatives of both camps, Lailatu Abubakar from Waru Camp and Christy Dauda from Yimuthu Camp, conveyed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the beneficiaries. They disclosed that many families in the camps could not afford to buy meat for the festivities, and the distribution came as a great relief.
The event marks yet another step in FEMD’s continued commitment to providing humanitarian support to displaced persons in the FCT, particularly during periods of cultural and religious significance.