Benue Celebrates Its Third Anniversary, Renewed Hope Under My Administration – Alia

By Peter Duru, Makurdi

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, celebrated the third anniversary of his tenure on Friday, delivering a message of optimism and progress. He declared that “Benue is rising again” despite the challenges the state has faced since his administration took office in 2023.

Speaking to residents in Makurdi, Governor Alia reflected on what he described as three years of “courage, sacrifice, determination, and steady progress” in rebuilding Benue State.

He noted that his administration inherited significant challenges, including insecurity, decayed infrastructure, unpaid salaries and pensions, weakened institutions, and a decline in public confidence in governance.

“Today marks exactly three years since I took the oath of office as your Executive Governor, with a solemn promise to serve God and humanity, restore hope to our people, and reposition Benue State on the path of peace, growth, and prosperity,” the governor said. He added that his government remains committed to changing the narrative and rebuilding the state from its foundations.

Regarding security, the governor said his administration has consistently supported security agencies with logistics and operational assistance to combat criminality across the state. The government procured and distributed 150 Hilux vehicles and over 600 motorbikes to security operatives to improve mobility, especially in difficult terrains often exploited by criminal elements.

Governor Alia also disclosed that his administration established the Civil Protection Guards and the joint task force codenamed “Anyam Nyor” to complement existing security operations in the state. He commended President Bola Tinubu for supporting Benue in the fight against insecurity, noting that many displaced persons are gradually returning to their ancestral homes as peace returns to affected communities.

Speaking on workers’ welfare, the governor said salaries are now being paid more consistently due to prudent management of resources and fiscal discipline. He emphasized that pensioners who were once neglected are gradually regaining their dignity through sustained pension reforms and payments. “A motivated workforce remains the backbone of productivity and efficient service delivery,” he said.

Highlighting achievements in infrastructure, Governor Alia revealed that his administration has completed over 50 intra‑city roads, while another 50 road projects are ongoing across the state. He added that no fewer than 370 kilometres of rural roads have been constructed, alongside the completion of interchanges in Makurdi and Gboko. Work on the Otukpo interchange will soon commence.

The governor further said his administration completed a four‑kilometre drainage canal from Achusa through Idye to Wurukum in Makurdi to address perennial flooding in the state capital. He stressed that 30 modern drainage systems have also been constructed, while the “Project Light‑Up Makurdi” initiative has improved security and nighttime economic activities through the installation of solar‑powered streetlights.

In the education and healthcare sectors, Governor Alia said over 400 school structures have been rehabilitated or constructed across the state, while 9,700 teachers and more than 500 healthcare personnel have been recruited. He also highlighted the upgrade of facilities at the Fr. Moses Orshio Adasu University Teaching Hospital, Makurdi, describing it as an emerging medical‑tourism centre.

On agriculture and industrialization, the governor said his administration established a tractor‑assembling workshop that has already trained over 200 youths. Construction is ongoing at the 250‑million‑dollar National Food City Complex in Otukpo Local Government Area, which is expected to generate more than 20,000 jobs upon completion. He also announced the establishment of the Food Basket Brewery and a Fruit Juice Processing Company aimed at boosting industrial growth and creating employment opportunities.

Governor Alia further disclosed that over 10,000 youths have been trained in digital skills, while 40,000 civil servants are undergoing training on e‑governance and ICT tools.

Reaffirming his commitment to development, the governor said, “One thing is undeniable, Benue is rising again. Hope has returned. Confidence in government is being restored.” He assured the people that his administration will continue to deliver more dividends of democracy and build a stronger and more prosperous Benue State.

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