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Tag: Alia

  • Alia distances self from Peter Obi’s visit to Benue

    Alia distances self from Peter Obi’s visit to Benue

    Benue state governor, Hyacinth Alia, has distanced himself and his administration from the visit of Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to the state.

    There have been speculations that Obi, who regularly visited Benue during the tenure of former Governor Samuel Ortom, is expected in Makurdi, the state capital, on Monday.

    Sources revealed that Obi is also scheduled to visit the Tiv paramount ruler, HRM Tor Tiv, Professor James Iorzua Ayatse, in Gboko, as well as Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Abagena, Udei, Guma Local Government Area.

    However, in a statement released on Monday by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Kulas Tersoo, the Benue state government made it clear that it is not involved in or connected to the visit.

    The statement by reads: “The Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, wishes to inform the public that he is not expecting any August visitor to the state today.

    “He is currently engaged in high-profile meetings with key state actors to discuss critical issues affecting our state.

    Read Also: Alia working to deliver good governance to Benue people, says coalition

    “Therefore, he strongly advises against any group or high profile individual(s) attempting to enter the state for any kind of visit that may generate political assemblies without prior approval.

    “For anyone considering a visit to Benue State without the Governor’s knowledge, it is imperative to reconsider such plans, as the safety and security of individuals in this regard cannot be guaranteed.

    “Also the public is to note that all individuals or groups intending to visit IDPs in Benue State must first seek and obtain written permission from Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA).

    “We urge security agents and the public to take note of this announcement and maintain peace and order in the state.”

  • JUST IN: Alia bars politicians from Benue IDPs

    JUST IN: Alia bars politicians from Benue IDPs

    Benue state governor Hyacinth Alia, has warned politicians to seek proper clearance before visiting Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in the state.

    The caution was issued in a statement by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Sir Kulas Tersoo, amid speculation that former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, is scheduled to visit IDP camps in the Northcentral state.

    Obi had earlier visited an IDP camp in neighboring Plateau State over the weekend.

    Sources revealed that Obi also plans to pay a courtesy visit to the Tor Tiv, Prof. James Iorzua Ayatse, in Gboko, Benue State. However, Governor Alia maintained that he is not expecting any official visitors in the state.

    The statement reads: “The governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, wishes to inform the public that he is not expecting any August visitor to the state today.

    “He is currently engaged in high-profile meetings with key state actors to discuss critical issues affecting our state.

    Read Also: Alia working to deliver good governance to Benue people, says coalition

    “Therefore, he strongly advises against any group or high profile individual(s) attempting to enter the state for any kind of visit that may generate political assemblies without prior approval.

    “For anyone considering a visit to Benue State without the Governor’s knowledge, it is imperative to reconsider such plans, as the safety and security of individuals in this regard cannot be guaranteed.

    “Also the public is to note that all individuals or groups intending to visit IDPs in Benue State must first seek and obtain written permission from Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA).

    “We urge security agents and the public to take note of this announcement and maintain peace and order in the state.”

  • Alia working to deliver good governance to Benue people, says coalition

    Alia working to deliver good governance to Benue people, says coalition

    …Dismisses planned protests against gov

    Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia is working to improve the welfare of Benue people, improve the economy, establish a culture of accountability and good governance, Coalition for Good Governance and Accountability has said.

    It passed a vote of confidence in the Governor and warned those who have been paid to tarnish the hard earned image of the Governor to think twice before making a caricature of themselves.

    The coalition rejected an alleged plot to disrupt the administration of governor Alia.

    Read Also: ‘How Alia’s gamble is impacting Benue APC positively’

    In a press release signed by Comrade Joseph Uyeh on behalf of the coalition, the group dismissed those desperately trying to undermine the developmental strides of Governor Alia, describing them as political failures and losers.

    The statement said: “Despite the remarkable good works currently ongoing in Benue State, some persons who are supposedly stakeholders are aggrieved with the shift from the traditional money-sharing and political patronage that once characterised politics in the state and elsewhere.

    “We have received credible intelligence to the effect that those who are opposed to the principled leadership of His Excellency which places the welfare of the people first above political patronage are not resting as they plot and scheme to cast his efforts in bad light.

  • ‘How Alia’s gamble is impacting Benue APC positively’

    ‘How Alia’s gamble is impacting Benue APC positively’

    • By Donald Kumun

    Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia of Benue State has been the subject of relentless, baseless, and ill-intentioned allegations by political detractors whose only interest is to derail the progress being made under his administration.

    These accusations are not only vexatious but porous and easily refutable when placed against the undeniable evidence of Governor Alia’s commitment to good governance, infrastructural development, and the welfare of Benue State citizens.

    This article aims to comprehensively debunk these unfounded allegations and expose the true motives of those spreading misinformation.

    First and foremost, it must be stated and made abundantly clear that Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia has demonstrated visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the development of Benue State.

    His administration is focused on delivering the dividends of democracy through transparent governance, strategic infrastructure development, economic revitalization, and social welfare programs.

    Under his leadership, roads are being constructed, healthcare services have improved, and education is receiving the attention it deserves.

    His government is also prioritizing agricultural development as a conscientious effort to harness the state’s vast agricultural potential for economic growth and food security.

    Governor Alia is ensuring prudent management of resources, fostering an environment conducive to investment, and restoring confidence in governance.

    His leadership is people-centered, with policies designed to uplift the living standards of every Benue citizen.

    Detractors who seek to undermine his progress must recognize that his administration is built on integrity and service to the people.

    The focus remains on transformative leadership, empowerment, and ensuring that Benue State reaches its full potential.

    Governor Alia, after his constitutionally guaranteed 8 years, is determined to leave a lasting legacy of progress, peace, and prosperity, economic, political and social stability and nothing will derail his mission to develop the state for the benefit of all.

    Now, to the infantile issues published over the week.

    In a conspicuously sponsored publication of Sunday March 31, 2025, in The Nation newspaper, on Page 33 titled: “How Alia’s gamble is threatening APC’s stronghold in Benue”, the detractors are claiming that Governor Alia is not interested in the reconciliation efforts by the APC national leadership to foster peace between him and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume.

    However, records indicate that Governor Alia has, on multiple occasions, expressed his readiness to work harmoniously with all party stakeholders, including the SGF.

    The governor understands the importance of party unity and remains committed to ensuring that Benue APC remains a formidable force.

    Read Also: Khamenei pledges ‘firm retaliatory response’ to U.S., Israel

    It is rather these detractors’ continuous efforts to malign the Governor and the good governance in the State that is THE GAMBLE THREATENING APC’s STRONGHOLD IN BENUE.

    Aside from the political angle, the Governor also endorsed the efforts of the paramount ruler of the Tiv ethnic nationality, the Begha and Tor Tiv, Prof. James Iorzua Ayatse. He (Governor Alia), understands the importance of party unity and remains committed to ensuring that Benue APC remains a formidable force.

    One of the most ridiculous claims is that despite receiving huge revenue allocations, Governor Alia has failed to develop infrastructure in Benue State.

    This assertion is not only false but also an insult to the intelligence of the good people of Benue who are witnesses to the rapid transformation occurring in their state.

    From roads to healthcare facilities, schools, and rural electrification, humanitarian services to the IDPs, prompt payment of salaries, youth empowerment programs, revitslization of industries in the state, cohesion of the civil servants’ productivity, rural roads ongoing constructions, a month others, Governor Alia has prioritized projects that have direct impacts on the lives of the people. The Makurdi-Gboko Road, Otukpo Township Roads, and several other infrastructural initiatives, have been executed and are ongoing as stated above.

    His government is also addressing the water supply challenges in Makurdi and other areas. Therefore, the claim of no commensurate development is a baseless political gimmick aimed at misleading the public.

    The claim that the future of APC in Benue State is fragile is outright false. The overwhelming support for Governor Alia by the people of Benue State, attests to the party’s solid footing in the state. With the governor’s impressive performance in office, the party continues to enjoy mass acceptance by the people. This, they do so because of the believe that Governor Alia has instilled in them of the new narrative about leadership and good governance. The fabricators of this claim fail to realize that the majority of Benue people are politically conscious and will not be swayed by cheap blackmail.

    Some have alleged that Governor Alia has alienated party stakeholders, yet the governor has consistently engaged party leaders and members in key decision-making processes. He maintains a deliberate policy of holding consultative meetings with relevant stakeholders to ensure inclusivity in governance. The real issue is that some self-serving politicians, who expected to be given absolute control over state resources, are bitter that Governor Alia refuses to pander to their selfish interests.

    There is another devilish assertion that Dr. Benjamin Omakolo is working towards moving APC into SDP as written in the publication, even though the detractors were referring to the current APC State Chairman, Dr. Benjamin Omale, is another laughable falsehood.

    Governor Alia remains a committed member of APC, and there are no plans whatsoever to defect to another party. The attempt to create confusion through unfounded claims is yet another failed strategy of detractors who fear the growing influence of the Alia administration.

    Governor Alia has made security a top priority.

    His administration has worked tirelessly to curb insecurity in various parts of the state. The claim that he has abandoned his duty to secure lives is not only misleading but also a desperate attempt to undermine his efforts.

    From equipping security agencies to deploying intelligence-based strategies, the governor continues to ensure the safety of Benue citizens. Even in flashpoints, these monumental efforts are yielding results.

    The governor has consistently engaged with key stakeholders, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, and party chieftains. The claims of non-consultation are baseless and only propagated by those who wish to hijack the political process for personal gain.

    The fallacy that only Austin Agada is leading and sustaining the support of most APC National Assembly members, led by Senator Titus Zam, is absurd. Governor Alia enjoys broad-based support, and his leadership has strengthened the party’s influence both at the state and national levels. What has Agada really done that earned him this appellation?

    The October 2024 local government elections were conducted fairly, despite attempts by political opportunists to discredit the process. Governor Alia ensured a level playing field, and the outcome reflected the will of the people. Critics are merely expressing their frustration over their inability to manipulate the electoral process to their advantage.

    Governor Alia has demonstrated respect for the rule of law and the principle of separation of powers. The allegation of executive recklessness and friction with the legislature is a fabrication aimed at creating the illusion of a crisis where none exists. His government has maintained a cordial working relationship with the State House of Assembly, ensuring smooth governance.

    Solomon Adodo’s baseless request for the EFCC to investigate the alleged N500 million allocation for the removal of Maurice Ikpyambese as Chief Judge of Benue State, as captured in the publication, eis pure mischief. The Adodo in reference here has continuously behaved like a professional blackmailer who seeks to tarnish the image of the governor without a shred of evidence. He should be made to understand that in Benue state, Governor Alia operates with transparency and accountability, and such fabricated claims hold no water.

    The notion that Governor Alia masterminded the suspension of 13 House of Assembly members is a poorly concocted tale. The decision was taken in line with due process, and the governor had no undue influence over legislative matters.

    The allegation that Governor Alia is doing nothing to address the killings in Jato-Aka, Kwande LGA, Sankera axis, and other areas is another desperate attempt to mislead the public. The governor has worked relentlessly with security agencies to tackle these challenges, leading to a significant reduction in violence.

    The claim that Governor Alia is in an unholy alliance with former Governor Gabriel Suswam is laughable. There is no evidence to support this claim, and it is simply another divisive tactic by those who fear the governor’s rising political strength. What stops Governor Alia from working and been in good terms with a prominent and worthy son of the state? Where does any extant prohibited this? It must however be stated unequivocally that, any relationship that will never see the accrual of tangible benefits or those anchored on the chains of personal aggrandisement will never be tolerated by the Governor.

    The assertion that APC faces a catastrophic situation in Benue State in the 2027 elections, is wishful thinking by these detractors. The reality is that Governor Alia’s performance is earning him even greater support, and the party is set for a landslide victory come 2027.

    Governor Alia’s administration, is focused on delivering dividends of democracy to the people of Benue State. The baseless allegations against him are mere distractions by those who have lost political relevance. The people of Benue State remain steadfast in their support for the governor, who continues to work tirelessly to transform the state for the better.

    • Kumun, is the Principal Special Assistant to the Benue State Governor on Print Media, and writes from Makurdi.
  • 2027: Ex-Senate President, Benue community rally support for Tinubu, Alia

    2027: Ex-Senate President, Benue community rally support for Tinubu, Alia

    Ahead of the 2027 general elections, All Progressives Congress (APC) critical stakeholders from Ado/Okpokwu /Ogbadibo federal constituency of Benue State have endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s pragmatic programmes and policies at reviving the country.

    The administration of Governor Hyacinth Alia also received the nod of the people from the region.

    The group at a solidarity rally led by the former Senate President, Senator Ameh Ebute, and other prominent APC leaders at Okpokwu passed a vote of confidence on the President and the Governor of Benue State respectively.

    A statement by Hon. Linda Ene Agada, the organiser of the rally and made available to newsmen in Abuja on Monday quoted former Senate President, Senator Ameh Ebute of declaring the support of the entire Benue South Senatorial district for President Tinubu and the state governor in 2027.

    Pledging their support, Ebute who said Tinubu was his colleague when he served as the President of the Senate said, “We are hundred percent with his government, I mean, the entire zone C of Benue state.”

    He also stressed the need for the people of the state to constantly support the governor, whose developmental policies are beneficial to the people, despite the activities of some reactionary forces in the state.

    Ebute commended the Governor for being focused and resolute in developing  the state against all odds.

    In her address the organiser of the rally, thanked the people of Ado/Okpokwu /Ogbadibo for coming out in thousands to declare their support and trust for President Tinubu and Rev. Fr. Alia.

    Agada, who serves as the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Town Beautification said: “I’m overwhelmed with the massive support the Governor is receiving from my federal constituency. Although the Governor has made Enone his priority. The Igumale Agila road is under construction, the Igumale Okpoga road is also there and the Primary Health Care Centre in Ai-Oduh in Ogbadibo local government among others.

    “In the area of appointment, the governor has given Enone the first Chairman of Benue State Internal Revenue Service from the Idoma-Igede extraction and the pioneer Director General of Public Procurement in Benue State.

    “The federal constituency currently has the Deputy Speaker of Benue State House of Assembly, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and that of the Water Resources and Climate Change. We also have the Federal Commissioner Public Compliant Commission, three Federal Board members and Board members of the State institutions, among others.”

    Agada said the rally was organised to show appreciation for the good work the Governor is doing and to assure him that the Ado/Okpokwu /Ogbadibo people are ready to vote him again come 2027.

  • Kwande Stakeholders Reject 2027 Governorship Position, Endorse Alia for second term

    Kwande Stakeholders Reject 2027 Governorship Position, Endorse Alia for second term

    Kwande Stakeholders, comprising Kwande and Ushongo federal constituencies in Benue North East Senatorial District, have rejected the governorship seat come 2027. Instead, they endorsed Governor Hyacinth Alia to continue and complete his eight years in Government House, Makurdi.

    This decision comes after another group from Kwande declared their interest in the 2027 governorship seat.

    According to the group, Governor Alia will complete the four years of the late Rev. Fr. Moses Adasu, who served only four years in office.

    Leader of the Kwande group, Tornguva Thomos Ugoh, addressed stakeholders on Thursday in Makurdi, Benue state capital, declaring their support for Governor Alia come 2027.

    “Governor Hyacinth is doing well, and there is no reason for us to say we will cut his tenure short. We have no problem with the governorship position; what we want is the Senate seat,” Tornguva stated.

    He further declared, “What we want Governor Alia to do is help us get the Senate seat for Kwande and the House of Representatives seat for Ushongo.”

    Another elder from Ushongo, Abi Terlumun, collaborated with Tornguva, saying, “The issue of Governor Alia’s second term is not in doubt. We want to correct the erroneous impression created by some Kwande sons who are not abreast with happenings back home that we want the 2027 governorship position.”

    Abi Terlumun added, “For the record, our son, Late Aper Aku, did very well, but his administration was cut short by the military. So, it is our hope that in 2027, a Kwande son will become a senator, while Ushongo will take the position of House of Representatives, and at the end of Governor Alia’s eight-year tenure, Kwande will demand the governorship seat.”

    Also speaking, a youth leader from Kwande Ushongo, Hon. Iorsue Tile, said, “Since 1999, all federal constituencies in Benue North East Senatorial District, namely Sankera and Jechira, have produced Senate seats except Kwande. Now is our turn; we are no longer going to loan it out.”

    Hon. Tile stated, “We can’t constitute a stumbling block to Governor Hyacinth Alia’s second-term ambition. It is wrong to deny him a second term because it is his constitutional right.”

    The group noted that Governor Alia has done much for the people of Kwande and Ushongo by providing numerous political appointments, constructing more roads, and tackling insecurity occasions by herdsmen, which the governor has provided security to protect their people.

    “So, we reject the position of some Kwande people that Kwande should gun for the governorship position in 2027,” Hon. Tile said.

    The group concluded that Kwande will take their Senate seat and vote for Governor Alia for a second to brithen their chances in 3031.

  • 2027: Benue ALGON endorses Tinubu, Alia

    2027: Benue ALGON endorses Tinubu, Alia

    The Benue State chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) has officially endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Hyacinth Alia as their candidates for President and Governor, respectively, in the 2027 elections.

    Chairman of ALGON Benue, Hon. Maurice Orwough, made the announcement at his HUDCO quarters residence in Makurdi on Tuesday.

    Hon. Orwough praised both Tinubu and Alia for their exemplary leadership and stated that they deserved a second term for their contributions to governance.

    “Benue farmers and people are happy with Mr.Presdent for providing security for farmers to go back to their land after spending almost 20 years in IDPs camps.

    Read Also: Insecurity forces closure of schools in Benue LGA, says ALGON chairman

    For Governor Alia ,Hon Orwough said ” Since coming into office the Rev.Gentleman has turn around both the plight of civil servants,pensioners, farmers, students and all sectors of the economy and it’s fair and just to give him a second time to do more”.

    As part of the 2025 campaign, Hon. Orwough along side other stakeholders decorated his official  house with posters of Mr.President and Governor Alia .

  • Alia, Eno, Yusuf, Namadi, Uzodimma sign 2025 Appropriation Bills

    Alia, Eno, Yusuf, Namadi, Uzodimma sign 2025 Appropriation Bills

    • Imo raises budget from N756b to N807b, governor appends signature

    • Benue to spend N550.11b, Akwa Ibom N955b, Kano N719.7b, Jigawa N698.3b

    Governors Hyacinth Alia (Benue), Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), Abba Yusuf (Kano), and Umar Namadi (Jigawa) yesterday signed the 2025 Appropriation Bills of their states into law.

    Alia, a reverend father, signed Benue State’s N550,112,988,930.45 Appropriation Bill, named: Budget of Human Capital Development, Food Security, and the Digital Economy into law at the Government House in Makurdi.

    The signing ceremony was done in the presence of the principal officers of the House of Assembly, led by Speaker Hyacinth Aondona Dajoh, and State Executive Council (Exco) members.

    The House of Assembly had passed the budget on Monday for the governor’s assent.

    The signing ceremony coincided with the launching of the state’s 10-year Development Plan, the Nutrition Policy, and the Social Protection Policy.

    Alia said: “The signing into law of the 2025 budget, the formal launch of the 10-Year Development Plan and these critical policies mark the beginning of a new chapter in our state’s story.

    “We are laying the groundwork for a future where every citizen has the opportunity to succeed, to live in dignity, and to contribute to the growth of our state.

    “Our work is not finished today; it is just the beginning. Together, we will build a brighter, more resilient future for ourselves and for generations to come.”

    In Akwa Ibom State, Governor Eno signed the 2025 Appropriation Bill of N955 billion into law at the Government House in Uyo, the state capital.

    The governor hailed the House of Assembly for the expeditious passage of the Appropriation Bill, called: Budget of Consolidation and Expansion.

    He said the thoroughness and speed in the passage of the budget exemplified the synergy between the Executive and the Legislature.

    Eno called for continued collaborations among all arms of government to ensure effective delivery of democracy dividends to the people.

    This year’s budget has a recurrent expenditure of N300 billion and a capital expenditure of N655 billion.

    Governor Uzodimma signed Imo State’s 2025 Appropriation Bill, named: Budget of Expanded Economic Opportunities, into law at the new Exco Chamber of the Government House in Owerri, the state capital, in the presence of House of Assembly members, led by Speaker Chike Olemgbe.

    The budget had been increased from N756 billion to N807 billion and passed by the House of Assembly.

    The governor promised to ensure full implementation of the budget.

    Read Also: ASUU and horrid pastime

    The budget has a capital expenditure of N694,786,041,220, or 86.09 per cent, and a recurrent expenditure of N112,302,000,000, or 13.91 per cent.

    A breakdown of the budget showed that the Ministry of Works and Infrastructural Development got N297,509,312,778, or 42.8 per cent; the Ministry of Transport got N101,010,000,000, or 14.5 per cent; and the Ministry of Power and Electrification, N74,755,479,042, or 10.8 per cent.

    The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security was allocated N50,020,000,000, or 7.2 per cent; the Ministry of Education got N49,460,000,000, or 7.1 per cent; while the Ministry of Health got N31,933,234,000 or 4.65 per cent.

    Uzodimma promised to fully and faithfully implement the budget to achieve its goals.

    “We will create expanded economic opportunities through investment and job creation. Ndi Imo shall be the beneficiaries.

    “I urge everyone and all stakeholders to support this administration in our endeavor to set Imo State on a path of sustainable development,” he said.

    Kano State Governor Yusuf signed the state’s N719,755,417,663.00 2025 Appropriation Bill, called: Budget of Hope, Capital Development and Economic Growth into law yesterday at the Government House in Kano.

    A breakdown of the budget showed a recurrent expenditure of N262,670,660,562.68, representing 36 per cent, and a capital expenditure of N262,670,660,562.68, representing 64 per cent.

    The governor had proposed N549,160,417,663.00 with the recurrent and the capital expenditures getting 43 per cent and 57 per cent. But the House of Assembly had jacked it to N719,755,417,663.00, an increase of N170,595,000,000.00.

    Speaker Jibril Ismail Falgore said the Assembly engaged all ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) in the defence of their proposals and conducted a public hearing where public inputs were integrated into the budget.

    The government said the budget would be sourced from the recovery of the Unremitted Oil Revenue (Refund to State Government), Value Added Tax (VAT), internally generated revenue (IGR) and other grants from the Federal Government.

    Yusuf said his administration was determined to making Kano a better state through investment in infrastructure and poverty alleviation.

    The governor said the budget was focused on empowering communities to stimulate economic growth.

    He added that the budget prioritised education, health, and agriculture to create opportunities for all Kano residents.

    Also, Governor Namadi yesterday signed Jigawa State’s N698.3 billion and the 27 local governments’ N184.4 billion budgets into law at the Council Chamber of the Government House in Dutse.

    The House of Assembly had passed the Appropriation Bill, tagged: The Budget of Innovation and Transformation for Greater Jigawa, on Monday without any changes.

    The budget has N90.76 billion for personnel costs; N63.69 billion for recurrent expenses; and N534.76 billion for capital investment.

    The Healthcare sector got over N40 billion to improve healthcare services in the state.

    Speaking after signing the Appropriation Bill into law, Namadi said: “I am pleased that the budget has been passed without any changes, and I appreciate the efforts of the lawmakers in ensuring its speedy passage.”

    The governor hailed Speaker Haruna Dangyatim for his leadership and commitment to the development of the state.

  • Alia signs N550bn 2025 budget, launches 10-year development plan

    Alia signs N550bn 2025 budget, launches 10-year development plan

    Benue state governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has signed into law the 2025 budget of Human Capital Development, Food Security, and the Digital Economy, totaling N550,112,988,930.45.

    The Benue State House of Assembly had earlier passed the 2025 appropriation bill during its plenary session on Monday, December 30, 2024, presided over by Speaker Hon. Hyacinth Aondona Dajoh.

    Governor Alia performed the signing at the Benue state government House, Makurdi, on the same day. 

    The ceremony also featured the launch of the state’s 10-year development plan, the state nutrition policy, and the state social protection policy.

    Describing the event as a transformative moment for the state, the governor said:

    “The signing into law of the 2025 budget, alongside the launch of these critical policies, marks the beginning of a new chapter in our state’s story. We are laying the groundwork for a future where every citizen can succeed, live with dignity, and contribute to the growth of our state.”

    The 2025 budget focuses on expanding access to quality education, improving healthcare services, and fostering lifelong learning. 

    Governor Alia emphasised his administration’s commitment to equipping citizens with the knowledge and resources needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

    On the digital economy, the governor stated, “The digital economy is the future, and we are committed to leading that charge for Benue State.”

    The event marked a significant step in the governor’s vision to ensure a brighter and more resilient future for Benue State and its people.

    “This budget allocates significant resources to the digital transformation of our economy, while investing in digital infrastructure, internet access, and innovation hubs, to foster an environment where entrepreneurs and businesses can flourish, digital literacy enhanced, jobs created, and openings for new opportunities,” he stated.

    Read Also: Alia calls for unity in fighting insecurity in Benue state

    On the Nutritional Policy, the Governor said it addresses the growing challenges of malnutrition, obesity, and diet-related diseases, adding that the policy is committed to ensuring that Benue citizens, especially the children have access to nutritious, affordable, and safe food.

    The Governor further disclosed that the launch of the Social Protection Policy signified his administration’s commitment to creating a safety net for the most vulnerable members of the Benue society.

    He described the policy as one that was designed to provide support for those in need, offering financial assistance, healthcare, education, and job training opportunities, insisting it is a testament to the resolve of his government to protect every citizen, regardless of their circumstances.

    He appreciated the Benue State House of Assembly for passing the Appropriation bill into law, as well as the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), for facilitating some of the critical policies, saying the collective efforts will bring about positive change and lasting prosperity in the state.

  • Benue prepared for potential flooding, Alia assures

    Benue prepared for potential flooding, Alia assures

    Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has reiterated the state’s proactive stance on potential flooding, emphasising that the state is well-prepared to mitigate risks.

    Governor Alia stated this while speaking to journalists at the State House, Abuja, after meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, dispelling concerns about the state’s readiness for possible floods, a recurring issue in the region.

    Governor Alia sought to dispel concerns about the state’s readiness for possible floods, a recurring issue in the region.

    He highlighted the administration’s focus on preventive measures rather than reactive planning.

    He also clarified that rather than merely contemplating actions, the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) is fully equipped to handle any flood-related challenges.

    The governor also mentioned ongoing discussions about dredging the river and exploring various options before seeking federal government support.

    He said: “I didn’t say we are thinking about what to do when the floods come we are not thinking we are prepared we are creating awareness to all our people maybe why you mentioned that is the fact that I had said the river requires dredging.

     “So before the dredging there a number of things on the table, exploring to see which of the best options Before the fed government comes in To support us.

    “So for the record, we’re not just waiting we have A SEMA an emergency management team that has the capacity to take charge of all this and they are already quite armed we pray that the flood doesn’t come in but if it does You know we are definitely equal to the task.

    Alia acknowledged the persistent issue of residents living in flood-prone areas along waterways.

    He outlined a two-pronged approach of appealing to these individuals while also emphasizing the risks associated with their choices.

    When you find such people, what do you do? You appeal to them, and if it doesn’t work by appeal when it happens to them, then risk,” Alia explained.

    Regarding the recent Supreme Court decision on local government autonomy, Governor Alia responded to allegations of candidate imposition in local government elections.

    Read Also: How Alia’s policies resonate ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ in Benue

    He defended the nomination process, describing it as transparent and inclusive. “What we did was to engage in a direct process,” Alia explained, stating that hardworking APC members were supported for nominations.

    The governor emphasized the fairness of the process, acknowledging that while there might be some dissatisfaction, efforts were made to give everyone a voice.

     “I wouldn’t try to toy with the reputation I built with my name and personality,” Alia asserted, reaffirming his commitment to transparency.

    Looking ahead to the October 5th elections, Governor Alia expressed excitement and advised those who might not succeed at the polls to remain optimistic about future opportunities.