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Tag: Alia

  • Alia kicks-off building of 300 capacity conference hall

    Alia kicks-off building of 300 capacity conference hall

    Benue State Governor, Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia has kicked-off the building of Conference Hall at Benue State Emergency Management Agency (Benue SEMA) at the agency’s headquarters, Makurdi.

    Represented by his Principal Private Secretary, Dr. Emmanuel Chenge, the governor said the Conference hall when completed will serve as a meeting place to generate and exchange ideas, gather and exchange information, and assist in early warning and action as well as prompt disasters management.

    Governor Alia praised the Acting Executive Secretary, Benue SEMA, Sir. James Iorpuu for his genuine commitment and effort in mitigating disaster and response to the plight of Internally Displaced Persons.

    .According to the governor, the Conference Hall which will also have a situation room that will gather and respond to disasters management.

    He assured Benue SEMA of his  support to the completion of the project, commended the International Organisations for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)and other partners in providing succour to displaced population.

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    The governor reiterated his administration’s resolve to resettle the displaced persons to their ancestral communities in a safe and secure environment, restore their dignity, pledging to commiting resources for the timely completion of the edifice and to supporting Benue SEMA to carry out its responsibilities.

    Earlier, the Acting Executive Secretary, Benue State Emergency Management Agency, Sir. James Iorpuu, said the state–of-art Conference hall will serve as a pivotal hub for humanitarian affairs in the state as well as to provide a conducive environment for strategic discussions, capacity-building and emergency response coordination.

    According to Iorpuu, the facility when completed will enhance a resilience and mitigate the impact of disasters in our communities in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Sendai Framework for Disasters Risk Reduction.

    Hailing Governor Alia for his unwavering commitment and support for the project, the Ag. Benue SEMA boss said the governor’s steadfast dedication to the well being of the IDPs is evident in his proactive approach to disasters management response in the state.

    He appreciated the esteemed partners including IOM, UNHCR and other UN partners for their sustain support to the displaced population, calling on them to join hands for the project.

    Prof. Gabriel Akpen – Director General, Bureau of Special Projects and Infrastructure lauded the government commitment to the welfare of the Persons of Concern, stressing that the Conference hall will accommodate more than 300 seating capacity, office of Executive Secretary and accountant,a situation room to coordinate emergency calls and integrated audio/visual systems.

    Chief of Mission, IOM, Nigeria, M. J. Laurent De Boeck commended the relentless effort of the government of Benue for providing succour to the displaced victims through Benue SEMA, saying the IOM is proud to be partners of the SEMA in trying to provide assistance to the idps and addressing humanitarian challenges, pledging its roadmap so that Benue people will see a better life.

    Irene Omondi, UNHCR Head of Sub Office Ogoja, represented by Mr.Sally Sally Ineji Okpaje, commended Governor for placing high premium on capacity building and coordination, saying the Conference hall when completed will serve as a hub for humanitarian activities and added that the UNHCR will continue to support the state government in meeting the plight of IDPs and to support their sister agencies in terms of coordination.

  • Alia’s anti-banditry partnership with Germany

    Alia’s anti-banditry partnership with Germany

    By Donald Kumum

    On March 21, 2024, the Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr.  Hyacinth Iormem Alia, played host to the German Ambassador to Nigeria, Annett Gunther, and the Minister of Defence, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Abubakar Badaru, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar, at Government House, in Makurdi. The essence of the presence of  the Ambassador and Minister, was to discuss the potential for collaboration and partnership between Germany and Benue State, Nigeria as a whole, for a sustainable development and improving the livelihoods of the people.

    According to the Governor, while addressing the Ambassador and his delegation, he was certain that Germany’s expertise and support could be instrumental in achieving the goals of tackling insecurity, and the  Agricultural sector in the state.

    Governor Alia said, investment and Technical Assistance, in the area of Germany’s agricultural sector is among the largest in the European Union, with a strong track record in exports, which he noted, Benue State, known as the “Food Basket of the Nation,” has enormous agricultural potential to collaborate with Germany, to significantly boost the agricultural productivity and exports, especially in livestock, to support the ongoing ranching policy.

    The Governor who quoted the Nigeria Bureau of Statistics, disclosed that the agricultural sector contributed approximately 21.91% to Benue State’s GDP in 2020, and Germany’s expertise in machine building, automobiles, and electronics, according to him, could also enhance the industrial capabilities and infrastructure, supporting agribusiness and other hardware sectors in the state.

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    The Governor revealed that, education and Skills Development, are also integral part of Germany’s renowned vocational training model, such as the “Ausbildung,” which could serve as a blueprint for enhancing Benue’s own vocational training programs. “This could greatly improve the skills and employability of our youth. We have personnel ready to travel to understudy this model and return with a high multiplier effect”.

    “According to UNESCO, the literacy rate in Benue State ranks 19th on the adult literacy chart. Support from Germany in scholarships, exchange programs, and vocational training could significantly enhance our educational landscape. German technology could be used in our schools, enhancing compliance with climate change measures”.

    Healthcare and Infrastructure:

    Germany’s expertise in healthcare and pharmaceuticals could benefit our efforts to improve healthcare infrastructure and services, particularly in rural areas. Most primary healthcare centers in Benue state, have been destroyed or neglected, denying rural dwellers quality access to healthcare”.

    “The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that Nigeria’s healthcare system faces challenges, including inadequate infrastructure and a shortage of skilled healthcare workers. Collaboration with Germany could help address these challenges. We specifically request rooftop solar-panelled hospitals with infrastructure to accommodate cold chain drugs, especially those on the essential drug list, to manage ARVs, Oxytocin, vaccinations, etc., in rural areas, improving Benue State’s health economics”, he said.

    Speaking on why he said is expedient to partner with Germany in the of security, Governor Alia attested that the country’s expertise in security management and technology, could enhance Benue State’s security infrastructure and strategies. He said with the Nigeria Security Tracker, Benue State, have faced security challenges, including clashes between farmers and herders, as well as intra-communal clashes, albeit collaboration in this area could ensure the safety and well-being of the citizens, increasing life expectancy, and improving development in the affected areas.

    Other areas that Governor Alia also emphasized for collaboration with the Germans, are Environmental Conservation and Climate Change; Cultural Exchange and Tourism;

    Durable Humanitarian and Development Assistance;Capacity Building and Institutional Strengthening, and Private Sector Engagement, respectively.

    “Germany’s commitment to environmental conservation and climate change aligns with our own goals. The Nigeria Climate Change Report 2021 highlights the impact of climate change on agriculture in Benue State. Support from Germany in sustainable agriculture practices and renewable energy projects could be mutually beneficial”

    “Germany’s support through institutions like KfW Bank and GIZ could greatly enhance our humanitarian and development efforts. According to the International Organization for Migration, Benue State hosts a significant number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) due to various factors. Support from Germany could help address the needs of IDPs and support their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

    “The Germany’s support in capacity building and institutional strengthening initiatives could enhance governance and public administration in Benue State. According to the United Nations Development Programme, effective governance and public administration are critical for sustainable development. Collaboration with Germany could lead to more effective service delivery and governance.

    “Germany’s status as a major exporter of agricultural goods underscores the potential for collaboration in our agricultural sector. According to the World Bank, the agricultural sector in Nigeria accounts for approximately 20% of GDP. Investment opportunities for German businesses in sectors such as agriculture, mining, and tourism could be explored further.

    “I believe that a partnership between Germany and Benue State holds great promise for both our nations. By leveraging Germany’s expertise and support in key areas, we can drive sustainable development and improve the lives of our people. I look forward to exploring these opportunities for partnership and cooperation with Germany. Our Bureau for International Cooperation and Development, working out of the Governor’s office, will coordinate these relations and ensure that you receive cooperation and support from all required MDAs”, the Governor submitted, for the partnership to begin.

    Earlier while introducing the German Ambassador to Nigeria to the Governor, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar, said they were in the state to inaugurate projects constructed by the Government of Germany at Nigerian Army School of Military Engineering (NASME) Makurdi, saying some of the projects, especially the improvised explosive Devices and explosive Ordinance Disposal Center in tackling security challenges, through provision of equipment and training to the Nigerian Army.

    While the German Ambassador to Nigeria, Dr. Annette Gunther said the positive relationship between Nigeria and Germany started since Independence, expressed the readiness of her country to help the Nigerian Government and Benue State in particular, to address the insecurity challenges being faced at the moment.

    Governor Alia later accompanied Ambassador Annette Gunther, and her entourage to inaugurate projects done by the German Government, where he inspected the Guard of Honour by the Nigerian Army.

    He witnessed the commissioning and handover of the projects, which includes the Sapper Guest House and Senior Non-commissioned Officers’ Quarters, which signifies the enduring partnership between Nigeria and Germany in the defense sector.

    • Kumun, is the Principal Special Assistant to the Governor on Print Media.

  • Shun politicians with divisive tendencies, says Alia

    Shun politicians with divisive tendencies, says Alia

    Benue State Governor Hyacinth Ali has advised Muslim clerics to shun politicians with divisive tendencies, capable of causing confusion and running down his administration.

    Governor Alia break fast at the Banquet Hall of Government House in Makurdi with Benue Muslim community over the weekend.

    He called on them to always preach peace and love.

    “Islam is a religion of peace and love as such, shun politicians who came around you with divisive tendencies. Show one another mercy because God has shown us mercy. Let’s change our altitude towards people and religion,” he said.

    He urged them to pray for President Bola Tinubu as he turned 72 as well as pray for the country.

    “We won’t accomadate falsehood, we shall preach peace, and be our brothers’ keepers, nothing should divide us.

    “My sins in Benue is I’m paying salaries, pensioners, executing projects and some people are not happy.

    “Since I have started work, all the hyenas came out to bite, that we should not developed Benue, but I said capital NO,” he said.

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    He described Benue as the most underdevelop state in the North and reiterated the determination  of his administration to change the narratives, saying this explain the reason why he has embarked upon massive infrastructure development in all the three senatorial zones of the state.

    Governor Alia called on young Muslims community members to form cooperative society so as to access loans and engage in any kind of farming .

    The Governor donated 90 bags of assorted grains to the Benue Muslim community.

    Earlier, Principal Special Assistant ( PSA) to the Governor on Islamic  Affairs Alhaji Baba Salau, said Governor Alia’s administration has brought peace and development to the state.

    Alhaji Salua pledged the support of Muslim community to the administration of Governor Alia.

  • Alia’s anti-banditry partnership with Germany

    Alia’s anti-banditry partnership with Germany

    • By Donald Kumum

    On March 21, 2024, the Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr.  Hyacinth Iormem Alia, played host to the German Ambassador to Nigeria, Annett Gunther, and the Minister of Defence, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Abubakar Badaru, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar, at Government House, in Makurdi. The essence of the presence of  the Ambassador and Minister, was to discuss the potential for collaboration and partnership between Germany and Benue State, Nigeria as a whole, for a sustainable development and improving the livelihoods of the people.

    According to the Governor, while addressing the Ambassador and his delegation, he was certain that Germany’s expertise and support could be instrumental in achieving the goals of tackling insecurity, and the  Agricultural sector in the state.

    Governor Alia said, investment and Technical Assistance, in the area of Germany’s agricultural sector is among the largest in the European Union, with a strong track record in exports, which he noted, Benue State, known as the “Food Basket of the Nation,” has enormous agricultural potential to collaborate with Germany, to significantly boost the agricultural productivity and exports, especially in livestock, to support the ongoing ranching policy.

    The Governor who quoted the Nigeria Bureau of Statistics, disclosed that the agricultural sector contributed approximately 21.91% to Benue State’s GDP in 2020, and Germany’s expertise in machine building, automobiles, and electronics, according to him, could also enhance the industrial capabilities and infrastructure, supporting agribusiness and other hardware sectors in the state.

    The Governor revealed that, education and Skills Development, are also integral part of Germany’s renowned vocational training model, such as the “Ausbildung,” which could serve as a blueprint for enhancing Benue’s own vocational training programs. “This could greatly improve the skills and employability of our youth. We have personnel ready to travel to understudy this model and return with a high multiplier effect”.

    “According to UNESCO, the literacy rate in Benue State ranks 19th on the adult literacy chart. Support from Germany in scholarships, exchange programs, and vocational training could significantly enhance our educational landscape. German technology could be used in our schools, enhancing compliance with climate change measures”.

    Healthcare and Infrastructure:

    Germany’s expertise in healthcare and pharmaceuticals could benefit our efforts to improve healthcare infrastructure and services, particularly in rural areas. Most primary healthcare centers in Benue state, have been destroyed or neglected, denying rural dwellers quality access to healthcare”.

    “The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that Nigeria’s healthcare system faces challenges, including inadequate infrastructure and a shortage of skilled healthcare workers. Collaboration with Germany could help address these challenges. We specifically request rooftop solar-panelled hospitals with infrastructure to accommodate cold chain drugs, especially those on the essential drug list, to manage ARVs, Oxytocin, vaccinations, etc., in rural areas, improving Benue State’s health economics”, he said.

    Speaking on why he said is expedient to partner with Germany in the of security, Governor Alia attested that the country’s expertise in security management and technology, could enhance Benue State’s security infrastructure and strategies. He said with the Nigeria Security Tracker, Benue State, have faced security challenges, including clashes between farmers and herders, as well as intra-communal clashes, albeit collaboration in this area could ensure the safety and well-being of the citizens, increasing life expectancy, and improving development in the affected areas.

    Other areas that Governor Alia also emphasized for collaboration with the Germans, are Environmental Conservation and Climate Change; Cultural Exchange and Tourism;

    Durable Humanitarian and Development Assistance;Capacity Building and Institutional Strengthening, and Private Sector Engagement, respectively.

    “Germany’s commitment to environmental conservation and climate change aligns with our own goals. The Nigeria Climate Change Report 2021 highlights the impact of climate change on agriculture in Benue State. Support from Germany in sustainable agriculture practices and renewable energy projects could be mutually beneficial”

    “Germany’s support through institutions like KfW Bank and GIZ could greatly enhance our humanitarian and development efforts. According to the International Organization for Migration, Benue State hosts a significant number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) due to various factors. Support from Germany could help address the needs of IDPs and support their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

    Read Also: Call Ganduje’s attackers to order, APC chief tells Soludo

    “The Germany’s support in capacity building and institutional strengthening initiatives could enhance governance and public administration in Benue State. According to the United Nations Development Programme, effective governance and public administration are critical for sustainable development. Collaboration with Germany could lead to more effective service delivery and governance.

    “Germany’s status as a major exporter of agricultural goods underscores the potential for collaboration in our agricultural sector. According to the World Bank, the agricultural sector in Nigeria accounts for approximately 20% of GDP. Investment opportunities for German businesses in sectors such as agriculture, mining, and tourism could be explored further.

    “I believe that a partnership between Germany and Benue State holds great promise for both our nations. By leveraging Germany’s expertise and support in key areas, we can drive sustainable development and improve the lives of our people. I look forward to exploring these opportunities for partnership and cooperation with Germany. Our Bureau for International Cooperation and Development, working out of the Governor’s office, will coordinate these relations and ensure that you receive cooperation and support from all required MDAs”, the Governor submitted, for the partnership to begin.

    Earlier while introducing the German Ambassador to Nigeria to the Governor, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar, said they were in the state to inaugurate projects constructed by the Government of Germany at Nigerian Army School of Military Engineering (NASME) Makurdi, saying some of the projects, especially the improvised explosive Devices and explosive Ordinance Disposal Center in tackling security challenges, through provision of equipment and training to the Nigerian Army.

    While the German Ambassador to Nigeria, Dr. Annette Gunther said the positive relationship between Nigeria and Germany started since Independence, expressed the readiness of her country to help the Nigerian Government and Benue State in particular, to address the insecurity challenges being faced at the moment.

    Governor Alia later accompanied Ambassador Annette Gunther, and her entourage to inaugurate projects done by the German Government, where he inspected the Guard of Honour by the Nigerian Army.

    He witnessed the commissioning and handover of the projects, which includes the Sapper Guest House and Senior Non-commissioned Officers’ Quarters, which signifies the enduring partnership between Nigeria and Germany in the defense sector.

    •Kumun, is the Principal Special Assistant to the Governor on Print Media.

  • I haven’t borrowed any money since my inauguration, says Gov Alia

    I haven’t borrowed any money since my inauguration, says Gov Alia

    Benue state governor, Hyacinth Alia, said he has not borrowed any any money since he was inuagurated on May 29, 2023.

    Reacting to a newspaper report (not The Nation) which  alleged that 13 new state governors, including Benue, collectively borrowed N226.8bn from both domestic and external financiers, between the period of June and December, 2023.

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    Governor Alia, who spoke through his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Kulas Tersoo, said: “We want to state emphatically that, the government of Rev.Fr. Alia has not borrowed any money from either Domestic or External sources.

    “All debts mentioned in the said report were incurred before May 29, 2023, and not after Governor Hyacinth Alia led administration took over office.

    “Let it be known that the government of Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia is skeptical of borrowings, and will only do so when and if it becomes necessary and it is in the interest of the Benue people, especially to fund critical projects.

    “We challenge the newspaper reporter to be more investigative in his reports, providing accurate facts, which is a key component of journalism practice.”

  • Ramadan: Shun politicians with divisive tendencies – Alia

    Ramadan: Shun politicians with divisive tendencies – Alia

    • …Hyenas don’t want me to develop Benue

    Governor Hyacient Alia has advised  Muslim clerics to shun politicians with divisive tendencies capable of causing confusion and running down his administration.

    Governor mad the plea while breaking Ramadan fast at the Banquet Hall of Government House in Makurdi with Benue Muslim community over the weekend.

    Addressing the Muslim community across the three senatorial zones of the state, Governor Alia called on them to always preach peace and love.

    “Islam is a religion of Peace and Love as such , shun politicians who came around you with divisive tendencies.

    Gov Alia added ” Show one another mercy because God has shown us mercy”

    He also said: “Let’s  change our altitude towards people and religion .

    He charged them to pray for President Bola Tinubu as he turned 72 years old as well as pray for the country. 

    “We won’t accomadate falsehood , we shall preach peace , and be our brothers and sisters keepers , nothing should divide us.

    “My sins in Benue is I’m paying salaries , pensioners , executing projects and some People are not happy .

    “Since  I have started work, all the hyenas  came out to bite , that  we should not developed Benue, but  I said capital NO, said Alia .

    He described Benue as the most underdevelop  state in the North and reiterated the determination  of his administration to change the narratives , saying this explain the reason   why he has embarked upon massive infrastructure development in all the three senatorial zones of the state .

    Governor Alia called on young Muslims community members to form cooperative society so as to access loans and engage in any kind of farming. 

    Read Also: Ramadan Day 21: Four beautiful significances of Laylatul Qadr

    The governor donated 90 bags of assorted grains to the Benue Muslim community .

    Earlier, the Principal Special Assistant ( PSA) to the governor on Islamic  Affairs Alhaji Baba Salau, said Governor Alia’s administration has brought peace and development in the state

    Alhaji Salua pledged the loyalty of Muslim community to the administration of Governor Alia .

    He described Governor Alia as Pillar of Muslim community in Benue state and  commended him for the offer of  appointments  to Muslims in the state .

    “We have been praying for your government to succeed before now we are not united but we are united with you as the Governor of Benue ” Said Alhaji Salua.

  • Easter: Alia distributes food to IDPs

    Easter: Alia distributes food to IDPs

    • Police beef up security for hitch-free celebration

    In the spirit of the Easter season, Governor Hyacinth Alia,  through the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has distributed essential food and non-edible materials to displaced persons who were impacted by the invaders in the state.

     The Acting Executive Secretary of the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (Benue SEMA), James Iorpuu, on behalf of the State Governor, performed the distribution exercise at Benue SEMA headquarters, Makurdi.

     Flagging on the exercise, the Acting SEMA boss stated that the distribution of the food and non-edible materials is targeted at Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camps and those who were recently displaced in Kwande, Katsina–Ala, Ukum, Apa, Okpokwu, Agatu and Guma among other affected communities.

     Iorpuu explained that Governor Rev. Alia in the spirit of both Easter and a continuation of his administration’s routine food assistance to displaced population affected by armed herdsmen and other forms of disasters.

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     The Ag. Benue SEMA boss commended Governor Alia for consistently responding to the plight of IDPs, assuring that all the relief materials will reach them before the Easter celebration.

     The assorted food items range from thousands of bags of rice (25kg) beans (25kg) maize (25kg), garri (25kg) hundreds of gallons of red and vegetable oil (20 litres) as well as bags of sugar, salt, noodles.

     In a separate development, the Plateau State Police Command announced its deployment of additional personnel to beef up security at flashpoints in the state.

     The initiative is part of strategic measures to ensure a peaceful and hitch-free Easter celebration in the state, according to the Police.

    The Plateau State Commissioner of Police, CP  Hassan Steve Yabanet, in a statement released through his spokesman, DSP. Alfred Alabo, said that in light of the upcoming Easter celebrations, the State Police Command has revitalised the security architecture throughout the State by deploying additional personnel to flashpoints and strategic positions throughout the State.

     According to him, “Our personnel from the State Intelligence Department (SID) have been deployed across all the 17 Local Government Areas in the State for proper intelligence gathering.

     “The Police helmsman wishes to warn all mischief makers and criminally minded individuals who may want to cause mayhem, thereby disrupting the fragile peace currently being enjoyed on the Plateau to desist from such, as the Command under his watch is fully prepared and ever ready to deal decisively with them under the extant laws.

     “The Plateau State Police Command remains resolute in executing its constitutional mandate of safeguarding the lives and properties of all residents of Plateau State.

     “He therefore calls on all Christian faithful to emulate the peaceful lifestyle of the Lord Jesus Christ as they commemorate his death and resurrection.

     “In light of the foregoing, the Plateau State Commissioner of Police has placed a ban on the activities of commercial Tricycle operators popularly known as Keke-Napep on Sunday, the 30th day of March 2024, while the total ban on the operation of commercial motorcycles also known as ‘Okada’ within the Jos-Bukuru metropolis remains in force.”

  • Why Alia’s focus cannot be truncated by desperate politicians!

    Why Alia’s focus cannot be truncated by desperate politicians!

    • By Donald Kumun

    Truly speaking, since the advent of democratic governance, what the people look forward to is how state resources will be used to improve their lives. This deployment rests squarely on the shoulders of those voted into positions of responsibility.

    Genuine democratic governance and the accompanying leadership that is responsible, accountable, and responsive have far-reaching impact on the electorate.

    When those democratically elected encourage participation in governance with the assurance that constructive opinions and that voices will be heard, this encourages engagement and feedback mechanism needed to sort out grey areas.

    In Benue State, a new way of doing things, with these basic assumptions as the template, is gradually being institutionalized. The Governor, Reverend Father Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia’s leadership, is anchored on strategic focus on prudence and proper placement of priorities. This indicates early signs and harbingers of good governance and fiscal responsibility.

    One area where Governor Alia has demonstrated prudence is in financial management. His administration has consistently prioritised the allocation of resources to critical sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, social welfare, environmental management, Humanitarian and Poverty Alleviation, and infrastructure development, among others. By doing so, the governor aims at ensuring that public funds are efficiently channelled, or rather utilized, in areas that are most beneficial to the people of Benue. An example of this was the distribution of the Federal Government subsidy removal palliatives sent to Benue State.

    Governor Alia has also taken steps to improve revenue generation in the state. He has initiated programmes and policies to attract investment and encourage economic growth by ensuring that those encumbrances that hitherto prevailed and truncated economic activities, such as illegal tax collection points, are dismantled within record time and the culprits brought to justice to give full account for their nefarious actions.

    To eliminate leakages in the system that accounted for wasteful spending, Governor Alia has taken a quantum leap aimed at promoting transparency in governance. His administration has enforced strict fiscal discipline, cutting down on unnecessary expenditure and ensuring strict monitoring with an eagle eye. This approach has helped reduce the financial mismanagement and ensured accountability in the use of public funds across all the Ministries, Departments and Agencies in the state.

    Read Also: LG Polls: Alia constitutes Benue electoral commission 

    The Governor has also shown prudence in his approach to debt management. He has sought to strike a balance between borrowing for necessary development projects and maintaining a sustainable debt profile. By doing so, he aims to ensure that future generations are not burdened with excessive debts and that the state’s financial well-being is safeguarded.

    Through these efforts, Benue State government is now assiduously working towards rebuilding the state’s economy, improving public service delivery, and restoring the peoples’ trust in state institutions. The focus on accountability is a crucial aspect of rebirth, as it ensures that resources are properly used and that the government remains transparent in its actions.

    Why Governor Alia’s focus cannot be truncated to rebuild Benue is because, it involves his implementation of series of strategies and policy reforms, aimed at transforming and improving various sectors within the state.

    The Governor’s focus is on attracting investors and promoting entrepreneurship as key sectors of the state’s economy. These include agriculture, culture and tourism, solid mineral exploitation, private sector participation, as well as commerce and industry. This is being carried out through the provision of incentives, the ease of doing business and the creation of a general conducive business environment.

    In line with the mantra of generating wealth from the soil, most profoundly Benue’s agricultural potential, Governor Alia has prioritised providing farmers with improved access to modern farming techniques, which would ultimately translate into the transformation of the all-important sector. Consequently and systematically, promoting the cultivation of high-value crops can help increase productivity and profitability for farmers. This will further guarantee their livelihood.

    Regular monitoring and evaluation of progress is vital to making necessary adjustments and maximizing the positive impact on the people and the state of Benue. This is where the appointees  need to demonstrate their relevance and capacity.

    • Kumun, is the Principal Special Assistant to the Governor on Print Media.
  • LG Polls: Alia constitutes Benue electoral commission 

    LG Polls: Alia constitutes Benue electoral commission 

    Governor Hyacinth Alia has forwarded to the Benue State House of Assembly for confirmation of eight names to serve as the chairman and members of the Benue State Independent Electoral Commission (BSIEC).

    The nominees include DR. John Chen chairman, Terhemen Shom SHOM – member (1) , Theodoore Iordye  UCHI – member (2), Solomon Deva – member (3) and Edache Isaac as m ember (4).

    Read Also: Security: Benue open to business, says Alia

    Others area Mrs Gloria Clement – member (5), Peter Ogagbola B – (6)and DR. Gisaor Vincent is to serve as secretary.

    The governor said the nominees have been considered suitable based on their track records, and will be responsible for the conduct of elections into the local government areas in the state.

    He charged the nominees to be fair, just and always consider the interest of the state above theirs in the discharge of their duties.

  • Security: Benue open to business, says Alia

    Security: Benue open to business, says Alia

    Governor Hyacinth Alia has declared that Benue state is open to business, stressing that the security challenge has been addressed.

    The governor stated this while reacting to the award given to him by the Leadership Newspaper in Abuja

    The governor, who described the award as a great feat and an indication that the world is watching activities in the state, said it means so much to him and a lot more to the people of Benue State.

    He said: “We need the world to come to Benue. We are an agrarian zone. We are farmers and we need farming investors to come in. Benue is open for business and those who would like to come in and gain some more with their own investment are welcome. They can just keep coming in.”

    The governor said the policies initiated by his administration have led to a peaceful atmosphere in the state, adding that the masses are in the first line of security.

    Alia said: “The invaders, those who are maiming us, doing banditry, those who are attacking and killing us, had to understand that there is a new dawn in the land. And then we had to do a lot of dialogue and we will continue to do a lot of dialogue. I represent peace and I preach and work for peace to exist.”

    He noted that insecurity thrived in the state in the past because people cashed in on it, lamenting that “people do all kinds of things to get money, even on the blood of human beings.”

    He added: “In my head, it is very clear that the people gave me the mandate to serve them, I accepted to do that from the depth of my heart in all humility and humaneness.

    Read Also: Onjeh urges NASS not to politicise Benue security issues

    “First of all, if we do not have a secure environment, we cannot thrive economically and commercially, developmentally and infrastructurally. So, we had to go back to the primary basis of how do we keep the peace that we enjoyed before now. How do we identify those who are cashing in on people’s blood? How do we take out the misinformation and disinformation and all that? So when we recalibrate all these, we will know the work that we have to do.

    “Benue State is a very hospitable place but if you come into the life of Benue, it has to be based on creating some value addition. If you are an investor bring whatever product that you have but leave chaos and insecurity behind because you are coming based on peace.

    “Again, we have been doing a lot of education, we need to let our people understand that while they are in the first line of creating peace, they need to understand that they are the architects who will be the first beneficiaries of the peace that will emanate from the re-education that we have been doing.

    And that is why relatively the state has been enjoying a lot of peace.”

    He added that the state gave a fourteen-day moratorium to the invaders to see how best they would respond.

    Alia said: “We have no open grazing law in Benue State. If you have prepared for that, your investment will be accepted but anything outside of that is not acceptable. You know, the state has its own stakes and the law of the land has to be implemented.

    “So I’m pleased to know that there was a lot of influx in the land but so far they have been going back in droves just as they came. But that does not mean that people are not welcome in Benue State. If you are legitimately coming with something to offer why not? You’re very welcome.”