Benue State introduces drone surveillance for emergency monitoring, IDP camp oversight

The Benue State Government has unveiled a new surveillance initiative aimed at tracking developments within communities throughout the state.

Speaking at the official launch of the state’s electronic emergency management system on Monday, the Executive Secretary of the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA), James Iorpuu, announced that the state is now deploying drone technology to enhance monitoring across all Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camps and affected areas.

Iorpuu said, “BSEMA with technical expertise of Benue Digital Infrastructure Company PLC has now introduced drone surveillance services in capturing realtime emergency response images and videos across affected communities including activities within all IDP camps.”

He explained that real-time footage and situational updates obtained through the drone surveillance would be shared publicly via BSEMA’s digital channels to promote openness, timely intervention, and increased support from partners.

“These drone-enabled situational reports shall henceforth be available to the public on all our digital platforms, ensuring transparency, accountability, and faster mobilisation of aid and partnerships.”

Calling for public cooperation, Iorpuu urged residents, the Benue diaspora, humanitarian groups, and development allies to engage with the official platforms while dismissing unauthorized or politically-driven information sources.

“This platform is built for you, powered by you and with your support, we shall overcome emergency challenges in our dear State.”

He emphasized that the adoption of drone surveillance marks a major milestone in enhancing the state’s disaster response capacity, aligning with a vision of a more efficient and accountable emergency system.

“As we commission the Benue E-Emergency Platforms today, we proudly position Benue as the undisputed pioneer in digital emergency management in Nigeria,” Iorpuu declared.