The Nation Newspaper

Category: Northern Reports

  • Abike-Dabiri hails foundation for providing Helston kits, training for midwives

    Abike-Dabiri hails foundation for providing Helston kits, training for midwives

    The chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, on Thursday commended U-VOL Foundation for providing Health kits and training for health workers in Benue State.

    The U-VOL Foundation recently completed its Second Maternal Health Training Session at St. Charles Hospital and Maternity, Adoka, Benue.

    The foundation facilitated the donation of 19 direct Relief Midwife kits to St. Charles Hospital and Maternity, each kit containing 61 essential items, providing midwives with necessary resources to perform 50 safe facility-based births.

    Dabiri-Erewa, in a statement signed by Mr. Gabriel Odu, Media, Public Relations and Protocols Unit, NIDCOM, said the foundation, by its activities, has truly justified the National Diaspora Merit Award bestowed on it at the last July 2024 National Diaspora Day Celebrations.

    The statement reads: “Dabiri-Erewa stated that the U-VOL Foundation has truly justified the National Diaspora Merit Award bestowed on the Foundation last July 2024, during the National Diaspora Day Celebrations, for their consistency in upscaling healthcare delivery in Nigeria. She urges the Foundation never to rest in its oars.”

    In her remark, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of U-VOL Foundation, Mrs Faith Adole stressed the need for consistent and standard healthcare services to the underserved communities, saying, “it is a call to volunteerism and giving back to society.”

    Mrs Adole stated that the two-day intensive programme trained 19 healthcare providers: nurses, midwives, Public health physicians, and community health workers. They were equipped with life-saving skills to improve Maternal and neonatal outcomes in Adoka communities.

    The U-VOL Foundation’s Chief Executive Officer also expressed optimism that equipping midwives with essential tools will pave the way for safe deliveries.

    She stated: “Our goal is not just to provide training but also to create sustainable solutions that empower the local workforce.

    Read Also: Zulum, Abike-Dabiri, Onyema bag Naija Diaspora awards

    “This programme is just the beginning. By continuing to train midwives, Public health workers, and Physicians, and by collaborating with institutions like the State Ministry of Health and Medical Teaching institutions, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, we are laying the foundations for long-term Maternal Health improvements in Nigeria.”

    Throughout the training, participants engaged in hands-on learning, covering key maternal and neonatal health topics, including: Life-saving resuscitation Techniques (Neonatal & Maternal Resuscitation)’ Pre-Eclampsia and Eclampsia Management, Complex Birth Complications (Shoulder Dystocia, Multiple Births, etc.); Family Planning and Birth Control Options; Handling Obstetric Emergencies (Postpartum Hemorrhage and Other Critical Emergencies); Emergency Cesarean Section & Surgical Skills; Infection Control in Maternal & Neonatal Care.

    The training was facilitated by a team of experienced medical professionals, including Dr. Irowa Omoregie – OBGYN and Head of Department: Obstetrics & Gynecology, Federal University of Health Sciences Otukpo (FUHSO), Benue State, Nigeria; Dr. Nana Emeribe – Public Health Physician and U-VOL Foundation Lead Volunteer Health Programs Coordinator; Grace Ohepo & Ene Adakole – Nurse Midwives from FUHSO; Oluwafemi Amusa – Medical Student & Health Programs Intern, U-VOL Foundation; Oladotun Ajayi – Public Health Nurse & U-VOL Volunteer.

  • Group condemns Senate’s suspension of Natasha

    Group condemns Senate’s suspension of Natasha

    Advocacy group FixPolitics has criticized the six-month suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, calling it a suppression of democratic representation and a reflection of systemic gender bias in Nigerian politics.

    Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended after her allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio were dismissed on procedural grounds by the Senate’s ethics committee.

    In a statement, FixPolitics Executive Director, Anthony Ubani, condemned the decision, arguing that it not only silences the senator but also disenfranchises the people of Kogi Central by stripping them of their constitutional right to representation.

    Ubani further highlighted the declining number of female senators, noting that representation has dropped nearly 50%—from seven women in the 9th Assembly to just four in the 10th Assembly. 

    He warned that the suspension sets a dangerous precedent, discouraging women from participating in politics and silencing victims of harassment.

    “This action blatantly disregards judicial precedents, including Senator Ali Ndume v. Senate of Nigeria (2018) and Senator Dino Melaye v. Senate of Nigeria (2016), which affirm that lawmakers cannot be suspended in ways that strip their constituents of representation. 

    “The Senate’s repeated defiance of these rulings raises serious concerns about its commitment to democracy, the rule of law, and the integrity of Nigeria’s legislative processes. Beyond undermining democratic principles, this punitive measure also calls into question the institution’s willingness to address misconduct within its ranks. 

    Read Also: Akpabio-Natasha crisis exposes leadership failures in NASS – Security expert Mumuni

    “Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension highlights the systemic barriers and entrenched misogyny that Nigerian women face in politics and society at large. 

    “The unconstitutional removal of a duly elected legislator denies constituents their fundamental right to representation in the National Assembly. In this case, an entire senatorial district in Kogi State is being disenfranchised—an outcome that contradicts both the spirit and letter of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). 

    “The Senate, as Nigeria’s highest law making body, must uphold the rule of law rather than continuously flout court rulings that protect the rights of elected representatives and their constituents. 

    “FixPolitics unequivocally condemns the Senate’s actions and demands the immediate reinstatement of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan. 

    “We call on the Senate to uphold justice, transparency, and accountability by ensuring that allegations of this nature are investigated thoroughly and impartially—free from internal biases and procedural technicalities.”

  • ‘Mohammed remains ASCSN President’

    ‘Mohammed remains ASCSN President’

    The Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN) has reaffirmed its support to its National President, Comrade Shehu Mohammed.

    In a satement by ASCSN Secretary-General, Comrade Joshua Apebo, the union noted that Comrade Mohammed was elected the National President on Monday 12th August 2024 with other members of the Central Working Committee (CWC) during the 5th Quadrennial National Delegates Conference of the Association held at Airport Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos.

    He said the conference was attended by the Registrar of Trade Unions who represented the Minister of Labour and Employment as well as the President and Secretary General of Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC).

    The GS explained that this followed the expiration of tenure of the former members of the CWC on 29th July 2024 having been elected on 29th July 2020 during the 4th Quadrennial National Delegates Conference of the Union at NAF Conference Centre, Abuja.

    He recalled that on 9th July 2024, the National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN) while delivering judgment in Suit No. NICN/ABJ/214/2022 held that Innocent Bola-Audu should complete his tenure by 29th July 2024 having been elected as National President of the Union on 29th July 2020 and that he should be compensated with N3 million for his legal expenses.

    According to the statement, it is in consideration of this Court Judgment which clearly stated that Bola Innocent Audu’s tenure ended on 29th July, 2024 and having elected a new leadership of the Association led by Comrade Mohammed who have been authenticated by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment and the National Leadership of the TUC that the association has decided to withdraw the cases at both NICN and the Appeal Court as it was no longer necessary to continue with the matters.

    The union restated that withdrawal of the cases in court should not be in any way interpreted to mean that Bola Innocent Audu is recognised as the President of the association.

    It, therefore, urged its members to keep faith in the leadership of the National President of the Union, Comrade Mohammed, the Secretary-General, Comrade Joshua Apebo, and other members of the CWC and disregard any disinformation from detractors about the association.

  • Tinubu support group names Yahaya Bello Star Associate

    Tinubu support group names Yahaya Bello Star Associate

    A pro-Tinubu group, Nationwide Tinubu Connect Associates (NTCA) has appointed former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello as a Star Associate.

    The NTCA is a registered group of like-minded Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora committed to the promotion of the laudable efforts and programmes ofTinubu administration to reposition Nigeria for political and economic growth.

    Read Also: Alleged N80.2b fraud: EFCC tenders receipts of school fees paid in advance for Yahaya Bello’s children

    Those who presented the appointment award to Bello included the group’s National Coordinator, Hon. Henry Nwabueze, and Chief Contact and Head of Mobilisation, Dr Haruna Madisca.

    NTCA, in a statement, said: “A Kogi State leader, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, better known as The White Lion, has been appointed as  distinguished Star Associate of President Tinubu by the NTCA.

    “This great movement is making Nigeria safe and great again by trying to connect all the 36 States and the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Now, Kogi is connected. In 2027, it will be 4+4 because there is no vacancy in Aso Rock.”

  • 2027: No vacancy in Kaduna Government House – ALGON chair

    2027: No vacancy in Kaduna Government House – ALGON chair

    The Chairman of the Kaduna State chapter of Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Hon Jamilu Albani, has pledged total support of chairmen to Governor Uba Sani.

    The Chairman further said that all council chairmen in Kaduna State are committed to reciprocating the political goodwill that the governor had extended to them, which culminated in their victory at the polls.

    Albany spoke after the breaking of Ramadan Fast (Iftar), when Governor Uba Sani hosted all the 23 local government chairmen and their deputies on Wednesday night. 

    The ALGON chairman who doubles as the Chairman of Sabon Gari local government, noted that Governor Uba Sani was criticised by political opponents for supporting their aspirations.

    ”But by the Grace of the Almighty Allah(SWT), and through the support of His Excellency, we were elected chairmen of our various local governments,’’ Albani said.

    The chairman further disclosed that even after being elected, Governor Uba Sani has granted them autonomy to run the affairs of their councils without interference.

    He said that the Governor has also been helping them politically, adding that he has paid party officials and has distributed palliatives to people at the grassroots, responsibilities which ordinarily they should shoulder.

    According to him, the immediate past government did not pay attention to party officials at the local government levels because throughout its tenure, they got only N9,000 each.

    ‘’So come 2027, we will reciprocate the kind gesture of the Governor by ensuring that our people vote massively for him at the polls. Political opponents who think that they can defeat the Governor, will suffer the worst defeat in their lives,’’ he promised.

    Speaking at the Iftar dinner, Governor Uba Sani noted that local government is crucial to politics because it is the tier of Government that is closest to the people.

    ‘’Local Government is the foundation of politics and I advise you to execute developmental projects, attend to people in their times of need and share the little you have with them,’’ he advised.

    The Governor who promised to continue supporting the local government chairmen, said that all state Government interventions will be done through them, adding those they should not give more priority to their relatives than others.

  • Natasha: One blackmail taken too far

    Natasha: One blackmail taken too far

    By Mazi Sam Okereke

    As I observed Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s theatrical performance at the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Women’s Conference yesterday, where she lamented her suspension and alleged victimization following a petition against the Senate President on grounds of sexual harassment, I was struck by the audacity of her narrative. 

    Her carefully crafted rhetoric, designed to evoke sympathy, deliberately omitted her own blatant violations of Senate rules. What unfolded was not a defense of justice or women’s rights, but a calculated display of self-aggrandizement at the expense of Nigeria’s constitutional institutions—the Senate, the judiciary, and the nation itself.

    It is disheartening to witness such a brazen attempt to manipulate public sentiment. How many Nigerians can see through the veil of her performance? Beneath the dark shades and dramatic delivery lies an individual driven by an inflated sense of importance, an alarming degree of arrogance, and an overwhelming propensity for deception. Her actions reveal a profound sense of entitlement and a desperate thirst for control, all cloaked in the guise of advocacy for women’s rights.

    To put it plainly, this is not a fight for justice or equality. It is a thinly veiled attempt to reclaim the chairmanship of the Senate Committee on local content—a position she was granted undeservedly as a first-time senator and which she lost due to her own misconduct. 

    Those who initially lobbied for her appointment have since apologised to the Senate President, acknowledging their error in supporting her. Yet, rather than accept responsibility, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has chosen to weaponize bitterness and orchestrate a campaign of blackmail and deception.

    Her actions during a routine procedural rearrangement of the Senate seating were nothing short of disgraceful. Refusing to occupy her newly assigned seat and insisting on speaking without recognition, she disrupted Senate proceedings on live national television. 

    This was not an act of courage or principle but a calculated move to incite chaos and draw attention to herself. When summoned by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions, she chose defiance over accountability, further demonstrating her disregard for institutional norms.

    Read Also: Natasha suspended for breaking rules, misconducts, says Senate

    The Senate, in its wisdom, exercised its constitutional mandate to uphold its rules and traditions by imposing a six-month suspension—a decision that was both justified and necessary. Even in the face of this disciplinary action, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan refused to apologize, instead doubling down on her defiance. 

    She seized the microphone on the Senate floor to declare her intention to pursue justice, all while privately demanding the restoration of her committee chairmanship as the sole condition for reconciliation. This blatant attempt to blackmail the Senate into submission is a testament to her lack of integrity and respect for due process.

    What is most troubling is her exploitation of serious allegations—sexual harassment and misconduct—as tools for personal gain. By taking her grievances to the Code of Conduct Bureau and the courts, she has sought to undermine the Senate’s authority and manipulate public opinion. Yet, her actions betray a fundamental lack of faith in the very institutions she claims to champion. 

    If she were truly committed to justice, why not allow the ongoing investigations and legal processes to run their course? Instead, she has chosen to escalate the matter on an international stage, turning the IPU conference into a platform for her personal vendetta.

    Her appearance at the IPU was not only a breach of diplomatic protocol but also a national embarrassment. By granting her the floor without proper nomination or consideration of the Senate’s position, the IPU inadvertently undermined the principles of fairness and due process. 

    Thankfully, the presiding officer acknowledged the need to hear both sides of the story before taking any action—a reminder that justice must be impartial and evidence-based.

    At its core, this saga exposes the character of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan: a person who cannot submit to constituted authority, who disregards the rule of law, and who places her personal ambitions above the interests of her constituents and the nation. 

    Her actions are not those of a patriot or a leader but of an individual consumed by entitlement and desperation. She does not represent the Nigerian woman, nor does she embody the values of integrity, accountability, or justice. She represents only herself.

    In the end, the Senate’s unanimous decision to suspend her speaks volumes. It is a reaffirmation of the institution’s commitment to credibility, integrity, and moral standing. It sends a clear message that no individual, no matter how cunning or manipulative, can undermine the sanctity of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

    As a nation, we must remain vigilant against such acts of deception and blackmail. We must demand accountability from our leaders and uphold the principles of justice, fairness, and due process. Only then can we truly honor the sacrifices of those who fought for our democracy and ensure a brighter future for generations to come.

    Mazi Sam Okereke, Public Affairs Analyst | Human Rights Advocate | Crusader for Social Justice and Good Governance

  • Mutfwang celebrates 60th birthday with orphans

    Mutfwang celebrates 60th birthday with orphans

    • Plateau governor gives scholarships to 60 children

    Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has celebrated his 60th birthday with orphans drawn from various orphanage homes across the state.

    The governor also awarded full scholarships to 60 less privileged children, covering their education from primary school to the university.

    Governor Mutfwang described the gesture as a personal commitment to ensure that orphans in the state have access to quality education and a sense of belonging.

    Speaking at a special event held in his honour yesterday in Jos, the Plateau State capital, he said: “On the occasion of my 60th birthday, I am making a pledge to take responsibility for 60 orphans, supporting them through their education up to university level, by the grace of God.

    Read Also: Living in fear of herders and kidnappers

    “For all orphanage homes in the state, I assure you that we will intensify our support to ensure that no child is left behind. None of you should lack any good thing. The state will provide the resources needed to secure your future.”

    Mutfwang told the children that their circumstances should not define their destiny.

    “God has a plan for each and every one of you, a plan for good and not for evil, to give you a future and hope. Your background does not determine your destiny. What matters is that you put your trust in God and He will lead, guide, and preserve you,” he said.

    The governor promised that his administration would support orphanage homes across the state.

    The Commissioner for Women Affairs, Caroline Dafur, hailed the governor for his selfless initiative.

    “Governor Mutfwang has demonstrated a true heart for the people, particularly the most vulnerable in our society. His unwavering support for orphanages and child welfare is truly commendable…

    “This administration is determined to combat the menace of child abuse and trafficking in the state. We are working tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of every child,” she added.

    Dignitaries at the event included the state’s Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Reverend Gideon Para-Mallam; Rev. Polycarp Lubo, and the Chairman of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Pastor Dunka Gomwalk.

    They led the prayers for divine protection and guidance on Mutfwang and the success of his leadership.

  • Speaker Tajudeen, Seyi Tinubu, others for Dubai S.O.F.T conference

    Speaker Tajudeen, Seyi Tinubu, others for Dubai S.O.F.T conference

    A non-profit organisation, the Godwin Aigboviose Foundation (GAF Africa), will hold a two-day Sustainability, Opportunity, Future, Technologies (S.O.F.T) conference in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, beginning on July 29, 2025.

    GAF is dedicated to transforming communities across Africa through sustainable development, innovation and empowerment.

    In a statement announcing the conference, GAF Africa said: “2025 is not the year to sit back and wait—it’s the year to take bold steps toward a sustainable and prosperous future. 

    “While the world debates the next move in sustainability, the UAE is already leading the charge, unlocking new opportunities and embracing green innovation at an unprecedented scale.

    “S.O.F.T Conference 2025, the premier global event, is designed to foster sustainability, opportunity, future and technologies. This is not just another industry gathering—it’s a catalyst for real impact.”

    Listing the reasons why attendance is beneficial, the organisers said that it would offer opportunity for “exclusive business matchmaking,” as there would be “no endless networking—only curated, high-impact meetings designed to generate tangible results”.

    “It is an event where sustainability meets business. Participants will explore the latest advancements in AI, cybersecurity, fintech, and energy solutions shaping the future.”

    The event will open opportunity for “public-private partnerships that drive change, collaborate with governments and major industry players to accelerate the transition to a sustainable economy,” the organisers explained.

    Read Also: Seyi Tinubu breaks fast in Kano, flags off feeding programme

    They added that the conference offers an opportunity for “start-up showcasing and investor-pitching”, as it would enable businesses to present their innovation to global investors ready to fund scalable, market-ready solutions. 

    The conference is also expected “to open doors for tailored programmes for rapid growth”. 

    “Strategic matchmaking, investor meetings, and funding opportunities to help you scale your impact faster.

    “This is where industry leaders, investors, corporate buyers, and governments come together to turn ideas into action. 

    “Whether you’re an innovator, startup or corporation, S.O.F.T Conference ensures you meet the right partners, secure funding, and gain market access- all in one place,” the organisers assured.

    Among the dignitaries and speakers expected at the events are Speaker, House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen; House of Representatives majority leader Julius Ihonvbere; Godwin Aigboviose, CEO, Eki Co-Net and chairman, Eki Holdings Limited; and Seyi Tinubu, CEO, Loatsad Promomedia Limited.

    Others are Feyisola Adeyemi, founder/creative director, LuxurybyFeyi and Feyiartistry, London, and Sunny Ofehe, executive assistant to the Delta State Governor on External Relations and Diaspora Affairs.

    According to the statement, organising committee members include executive assistant to the Delta State Governor on External Relations and Diaspora Affairs, Sunny Ofehe; founder, GAF Africa, Godwin Aigboviose Omage, among others.

  • Katsina federal lawmaker Tafoki splashes N150m on constituency for Ramadan

    Katsina federal lawmaker Tafoki splashes N150m on constituency for Ramadan

    The member representing Faskari/Kankara Sabuwa Federal Constituency, Shehu Dalhatu Tafoki, has distributed over 3,000 bags of assorted rice worth N89m as well as N50m cash to members of his constituency to ease their hardship during the fasting period of the holy month of Ramadan.

    Flagging off the distribution, Katsina Deputy Governor Farouk Lawal Jobe described the gesture as desirable, timely and worthy of emulatiion by other politicians and philanthropists in the state.

    He further reiterated that Prophet Muhammad, Peace Be Upon Him, had lived a legacy of caring and sharing amongst believers especially at this austire time of lack and challenges of living.

    Read Also: Benue attack: Death toll rises to 20 as governor, lawmaker condemn killings

    The Deputy Governor commended Tafoki for the positive impact the ramadan packages will have on the people and prayed the Almighty to reward the gesture of the benefactor

    Tafoki explained the gesture was to give back a measure of the window’s mite to vulnerable members of Constituency towards easing the challenges faced by the people.

    He said: ”In addition to this mite, I have remained focused at improving the Social Status of the people by influencing projects and programs through Lauderdale legislations”

    ” only recently the National Assembly passed a bill for the establishment of educational institutions in Faskari and Sabuwalocal government areas.”

  • Transforming Benue: Governor Alia’s remarkable journey of progress, empowerment

    Transforming Benue: Governor Alia’s remarkable journey of progress, empowerment

    By Adnan Mukhtar

      It would not be an exaggeration to say that Governor Hyacinth Iornem Alia of Benue State has, within the past twenty-one months in office, made significant strides, especially in the areas of education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, humanitarian services, women and youth empowerment, as well as security among other critical sectors.

      Governor Alia, who assumed the mantle of leadership as the elected Governor of Benue State on 29th May 2023, had made it clear to the citizens of the state his intention to accord priority attention to these areas and many others, aiming to improve the well-being of the citizens, especially the less privileged, in addition to uplifting their socio-economic status.

      Governor Alia deserves to be celebrated by all well-meaning people of Benue State for his unwavering commitment to improving the living standard of the people, especially at the grassroots level, with the aim of taking the state to greater heights. A recent visit to the state reveals that Governor Alia has transformed Benue State, as evidenced by numerous achievements recorded across various sectors, including security, infrastructure, education, healthcare, and the economy.

      In the area of infrastructure development, Governor Alia has successfully constructed several roads within the Makurdi metropolis, alongside underpass projects aimed at reducing traffic congestion and improving road safety. He has also renovated several government buildings and infrastructure across the state.

      Governor Alia’s administration has demonstrated its commitment to transforming Benue State and improving the lives of its citizens. These achievements are a testament to the governor’s vision and leadership.

      First and foremost, he believes education is the bedrock of any meaningful development, which is why he has prioritized rejuvenating the sector to ensure the provision of quality education from primary or basic levels up to tertiary levels.

      Additionally, the Governor has initiated a commendable policy to pay the examination fees for all students in government-approved public secondary schools in the state sitting for the West African Examination Council (WAEC) and National Examination Council (NECO) examinations. This gesture has been widely acclaimed in the state and is viewed by many as both revolutionary and a hallmark of visionary leadership.

      The Governor was reported to have donated computers to the Benue State University Computer-Based Test (CBT) center to enhance learning. He awarded scholarships to no fewer than 44 first-class graduates of Benue State University to support their further studies. Furthermore, he established a University of Agriculture, Science, and Technology at Ihugh in Vandeikya and opened a Benue State University campus at Adikpo (Faculty of Technology), among other significant accomplishments.

      In the health sector, Governor Alia has made tremendous achievements, notably rejuvenating the Benue State University Teaching Hospital and upgrading healthcare facilities across the state. This is part of his administration’s commitment to ensuring that the citizens have access to quality healthcare and improving healthcare delivery services statewide. The opening of the Muhammadu Buhari Mother and Child Hospital has reduced maternal mortality rates and provides prompt and high-quality healthcare services to women and children under the age of five.

      The reconstruction and modernisation of the Benue State House of Assembly Complex, with modern facilities, and the initiation and completion of the remodeling of the Benue State House of Assembly Clinic, equipped with state-of-the-art amenities to ensure quality healthcare for officials and staff, also deserve mention.

      Read Also: Progressives warn NNPCL against reversing Tinubu’s economic goals on local refineries

      The construction of strategic roads within the Makurdi metropolis, Gboko, and other parts of the state, along with the construction of flyovers and underpasses in Makurdi and Gboko local governments, and the installation of streetlights, are commendable projects. These initiatives will significantly ease the movement of people, goods, and services, facilitating and enhancing economic development in the state.

      Governor Hyacinth Alia’s key interventions in the tertiary education sector and the implementation of policies to improve education standards in the state have continued to receive priority attention since he assumed office.

      Women and youth empowerment is another sector where Governor Alia has excelled, enabling numerous women and youth to become self-reliant and contribute to the economic growth and development of both the state and Nigeria at large.

      Since taking office, Governor Alia has focused on grassroots development, implementing policies tailored to meet the needs of the state’s residents without favoritism. Despite his identity as a Christian and a Reverend Father, he has garnered the respect and support of the Muslim community by ensuring equal treatment for all religions.

      His commendable leadership and numerous accomplishments were recognized when Leadership Newspaper awarded him the title of “Governor of the Year” on March 5, 2024.

      Additionally, the peace and stability currently experienced throughout Benue State can be attributed to the collaborative efforts of security agencies, which have been significantly bolstered by Governor Alia’s untiring support.

      Without mincing words, I can confidently say that Governor Alia is a remarkable success and a unique gift to the people of Benue State during this critical moment.