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  • Governor Alia’s agricultural revolution in Benue

    Governor Alia’s agricultural revolution in Benue

    •Inaugurates 33 new tractors

    By Donald Kumun

    Throughout the electioneering period and even up to the period in which he was sworn into office, the Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia has identified agriculture as one of the most viable sectors that the state needs to be proud of.

    This sector has, therefore, remained indelible in the heart of the governor; prompting its transformation from peasant farming to a vibrant business. He has also called for multi-faceted efforts. It is pleasing to hear the governor stress that “we don’t have oil but we have the soil.”

    This, therefore, underscores the greater importance the governor attached to the task of reviving the state’s agricultural sector.

    On several occasions, the governor lamented that despite the popularity of the appellation of being the Food Basket of the Nation, Benue farmers could not still guarantee food security. Hence, they had no wherewithal to produce optimally.

    Consequently, it dawned on him to take very urgent and responsible steps towards revolutionising the sector in a manner that it becomes a sector that generates wealth for the state and lift the population out of poverty.

    Recall that, while unveiling his manifesto Christened “Strategic Development Plan for a Greater Benue,” Governor Alia said he would take deliberate steps to structure the manifesto around seven priority pillars on which he will develop the state. In the manifesto, agriculture featured prominently.

    “We all, as stakeholders, have a responsibility to ensure that the state does not only exist but the state lives to its fullness. For now, we are no near to that and that is why we had to do everything it takes to bring better prospects and to renew the good of our great state. Benue is too rich to be poor and to do anything less is not appreciating what God has made of us,” he said. 

    He explained that the document is structured around seven priority pillars with the acronym “SACHIIP” which stands for “Security of lives and property, Agriculture and rural development, Commerce and Industry, Human capital and social development, Infrastructure and Environment, Information and Communication Technology, (ICT) and Political and Economic governance.”

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    Bearing in mind that the hoe and cutlass approach through which agriculture is practised is no longer tenable in the 21st Century, the governor said he would encourage mechanised agricultural practices in the state through the resuscitation of state agricultural agencies such as Agricultural Development Company, (ADC), Benue Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (BENARDA) and Benue Tractor Hiring Agency (BENTHA), among others.

    He has made agriculture a top priority in Benue State, an action aimed at revolutionising the sector and making it a key driver of the state’s economy. The government has implemented various agricultural policies, programmes and initiatives to support farmers and improve productivity in the sector. Some of the initiatives implemented by the government include the provision of inputs and subsidies to farmers. Under this, the government would always buy and distribute fertilisers at subsidised rates, improved seeds, and other inputs to farmers to boost crop yields and quality.

    Again, the governor mapped up innovative strategies towards empowering women and youth in agriculture.  Under this, targeted beneficiaries are to be mopped up and dedicated training programmes, financial support, and other forms of assistance will be extended to them. Already, the benefits of these initiatives are springing up.

    This is because Benue State, like many of the states in Nigeria, shares in some of the numerous challenges, including but not limited to, high poverty rates, a fragile environment, conflicts, degradation o f natural resources, low agricultural productivity, climate-related risks, limited access to modern technology and weak institutional capacity, which calls for concerted efforts across various sectors, to address the multifaceted challenges.

    During the launch of the Implementation Support  Mission of the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscape (ACReSAL), specifically tailored to bolster institutions and implement activities that mitigate the environmental impacts of climate change, including supporting efforts aimed at landscape management, improving community livelihoods and resilience, and strengthening institutional frameworks, Governor Alia, reaffirmed his commitment to providing the necessary support for the ACReSAL project to thrive. He said his ambition is to rejuvenate the agricultural sector, elevating Benue to unprecedented heights in food production.

    At the event, visitors from the World Bank team, led by Dr. Joy Agene, Task Team Lead (TTL) and the Federal Project Management Team, headed by Mr. Abdulhamid Umar, State Project Coordinators from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, and the 19 ACReSAL states, whose relentless efforts have been pivotal in driving the success of the ACReSAL project, in their respective states, also graced the occasion, to support the passion of the Governor towards revolutionising agriculture.

    The current joint initiatives between the State Government and the ACReSAL Project, according to the governor include Establishing fully functional plant nurseries and greenhouses in Otukpo, Makurdi and Vandeikya local government areas, Setting up an Agroforestry Centre for Research at Akperan Orshi Polytechnic, Yandev, Gboko and the College of Education, Katsina-Ala, Undertaking reforestation and afforestation of degraded forest reserves, and establishing agroforestry models and food forests in several LGAs including Otukpo, Ohimini, Ogbadibo, Oju, Gboko, Vandeikya, Konshisha, and Gwer East local government areas, respectively. Others are introducing drought-resistant Tenera palm and coconut (Cocos nucifera) in degraded farmlands across the state, implementing restoration interventions in riparian areas around river Benue to mitigate perennial flooding, designing stormwater and gully erosion control structures in various local government areas, including Ogbadibo, Gboko, Vandeikya, Makurdi and Otukpo, councils, provision of water harvesting facilities for 1,700 households across the Benue’s three senatorial districts.

    High-priority ACReSAL Project activities in the state also encompass rehabilitation of dilapidated dams such as Adoka-Icho Community Dam in Otukpo and Naka Dam in Gwer West local government areas, provision of drilling trucks with rigs and backup vehicles for installing solar-powered boreholes to meet community water needs, procurement of specialised swamp buggy vehicles for diverse environmental management activities, renovation and upgrading of agricultural produce warehouses/agro hubs across all 23 local government areas, distribution of solar-powered irrigation pumps to farmer groups in Benue’s senatorial districts, among others.

    Governor Alia further revealed that the Community Revolving Fund (CRF) Scheme, which was presented to farmer groups across the state, at the occasion, is an investment fund rather than a grant. The sum of $250,000 in naira value of N380 million, was distributed to the farmer groups, designed to revitalise agricultural practices among them and households, to undertake climate-smart agricultural activities in the state, under the Community Revolving Fund (CRF) scheme of the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) scheme. The selection process was done transparently, to ensure only the most deserving beneficiaries received the funds, which will circulate within communities as repayments are made.

    The governor, who has already paid the sum of N1 million as a counterpart fund for the ACReSAL programme, urged all beneficiaries to exercise diligence and prudence in managing the resources.

    Furthermore, the food shortages experienced across the country and globally, which have had widespread repercussions, driving some individuals towards crime and other vices in the State, is another major concern for the governor to tackle, he said, the provision of tractors by his administration, to promote farming activities, would spur the youths’ interests in the sector, to rekindle them, as the criminal tendencies hitherto in them, that formed a barrier for their productivity, are completely curbed. 33 new tractors were also inaugurated at the Implementation Support Mission of the ACReSAL, and over 33,000 households are expected to benefit from it annually with the anticipation of the governor that the machines will be well-maintained and used for their intended purposes to maximise their impact.

    Those indigenous to Benue, through the governor, appeal to the World Bank through ACReSAL, to facilitate the construction of access roads linking farmers to markets, to reduce post-harvest losses, connect the rural farmers to buyers, and expedite the delivery of goods and services across the state.

    Governor Alia thanked ACReSAL for their continued support to the state, and reaffirmed his commitment to support ACReSAL to have a friendlier environment to work more effectively, and announced that the state government would create an agency for ACReSAL, for sustainability.

    Governor Alia presented cheques of the $250,000, distributed to the farmer groups at the occasion, and tasked them to make judicious use of the money, for effective implementation of the aims and objectives of the support, saying that: “Benue is the food basket of the nation. So, we need everyone with the thinking and with the actions that can help us to move from grace to grace in terms of food and food security, and basic state security.”

    The Senior Environmental Specialist at the World Bank Nigeria Office, who also doubles as the Task Team Leader for the ACReSAL project, Dr. Joy Iganya Ajene said the team was in the state to assess, support and look at the challenges of the programme, but discovered that no challenges were found, and attributed the development to an indication that the programme has so far recorded tremendous success in the state.

    She commended the governor and the ACReSAL team for playing their respective roles, saying that Benue State stands to gain more from the programme if the government continues to strengthen the needed institutions to keep gaining more benefits.

    The ACReSAL programme seeks to address the challenges of land degradation and climate change in Northern Nigeria on a multi-dimensional scale, increase agricultural production, reduce poverty and improve the standard of living with financing from the World Bank, even as the project became effective in June 2022 and will end in March 2028, covering 19 Northern states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, with Governor Alia providing an environment conducive to the team to work, and supporting the community farmers in the State, as a deliberate mandate of the component “B” of the ACReSAL project, to enhance the resilience of communities, to improve their livelihoods.

    Through these initiatives and achievements, the governor is working assiduously to make Benue State a leading player in the agricultural industry in Nigeria.”

    •Kumun is an Aide to the Governor on Print Media

  • Alia: Benue will promote accountability, equity

    Alia: Benue will promote accountability, equity

    Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia tenders his stewardship during the ‘Democracy Day’ celebrations and urges the people to team up with his administration in the task of salvaging the Northcentral state

    Exactly two weeks ago, being May 29, 2024, made it exactly one year since I took the oath of office. However, I deliberately postponed my speech on that day so as to coincide with this year’s Democracy Day celebration.

    I considered it more appropriate to use today’s celebrations to give you a brief but articulate account of my stewardship in the last one year; as well as point to the bright path that leads to a greater Benue which we all aspire for, as a government and as a people.

    Over a year ago, I stood here and made lofty but achievable promises to you. These promises, enshrined in our 7-point agenda, ranged from economic growth, to infrastructural development, security of lives and property, prompt payment of salaries and pensions/gratuities, amongst others.

    Upon assumption of office, we met Benue in an economic ditch. We immediately hit the ground running by engendering economic growth through agriculture. Accordingly, we procured100 trucks of fertilizer which was distributed to farmers at subsidized rates. The impact so far has been tremendous.

    Beyond provision of fertilizers, we also approved counterpart funding for International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD’s) Value Chain Development Programme in eight local government areas, with a view to enhancing rice and cassava production.

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    We further established collaborations with agricultural input suppliers to ensure the availability of improved seeds and seedlings. This was coupled with our reactivation of the swine/crop integrated project in Yandev, Gboko Local Government Area, through partnership with the French Development Agency to advance agricultural skills, as well as renovation of the infrastructure to boost enhance productivity.

    Furthermore, we have struck a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) deal with Star Fertilizer Company Limited, in order to revive the state-owned fertilizer blending plant. This is in addition to our kick-starting of phased development of the Ikyogen Cattle Ranch.

    Meanwhile, plans are in top gear towards dredging the River Benue, as a catalyst for boosting agricultural activities and easy movement of agricultural products.

    Furthermore, just last week, I handed over 33 new tractors and the sum of 380 Million Naira to community interest groups across the state, to undertake climate-smart agricultural activitiesunder the Community Revolving Fund (CRF) scheme of the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL).

    I assure you that my administration is more than committed to improving the livelihoods of all and sundry in the state, especially through agriculture.

    With regards to Economy and Wealth Creation, our administration has created 1,450 ad-hoc jobs for the Nigeria Fire Extinguishers Control, with plans for permanent integration into the Federal Fire Service.

    We are currently setting up a multifunctional fashion hub in collaboration with the Office of the Vice President, to benefit over 250 professionals in the industry.

    .In a similar vein, with 34 out of Nigeria’s 46 solid mineral deposits in Benue, we are on the verge of becoming a mining powerhouse. In view, we have partnered with Sound Core to clean up and develop the mining sector, projecting 3.5 billion Naira in revenue through our annual surface rent scheme.

    While tackling illegal mining and educating communities on the legal benefits, our administration in collaboration with the Federal Government, has formed the Mineral Resource and Environmental Management Committee, to protect resources and manage community conflicts.

    .Meanwhile, we have revitalized government assets, including the Benue Investment and Property Company (BIPC) Kaduna Plaza, as well as the Guest Houses in Kaduna and Makurdi towns respectively. While transitioning to digital operations for better service delivery, we have also commissioned a BIPC bakery and water factory, and launched the Emperor Fertilizer and Motorcycle Hire Scheme, all domiciled in the State.

    My esteemed people of Benue, as you recall, when we came on board, our industries were moribund, with many on the brink of being taken over by private hands. We however, said a firm ‘no’ to the glorified wisdom of the last administration that “Government has no business in doing business”.

    Today, I proudly inform you that we have initiated the re-establishment and resuscitation of these industries, including Benue Breweries, Taraku Oil Mills, amongst others. This aims at creating more job opportunities for our teeming youths, as well as improving our Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).

    .In the area of infrastructure and environment, in the bid to enhance movement of people, goods and services, we commenced the construction of 16 strategic roads in Makurdi and other parts of the State, particularly linking our rural communities. 98% of these roads have been completed, while others are still under construction.

    .In total, our administration has awarded 51 road projects within just one year, including three underpass projects in Makurdi, Gboko, and Otukpo Local Government Areas, respectively.

    In addition, the ‘Light Up Makurdi’ project, extending from Agan Toll Gate to the Air Force Base and other parts of Makurdi, is now a reality and will be expanded to other parts of the State as we step into another year of our tenure.

    We have also renovated and furnished the State Secretariat. We have reconstructed the Benue State House of Assembly Complex, and remodeled the Assembly Clinic.

    .In the transport sector, the rejuvenation of the state-owned Benue Links Transport Company is another milestone. We have handed 100 new buses to the Company, and subsidized the cost of transportation. We have also upgraded the Company’s headquarters to meet global best standards.

    .In health and social development, our administration was the first in Nigeria to implement the Revised Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF) 2023, at the revised rate.

    We also re-introduced the Bond Scheme for medical students of Benue origin studying medicine, by approving the monthly payment of N103,000 per student. This is coupled with the approval of N100,000 monthly allowances for doctor-corps members serving in the State; as well as N15,000 as monthly allowances for other corps members posted here.

    We have overhauled the Benue State University Teaching Hospital to meet international standards. We have also employed 500 new staff on merit, to augment the workforce.

    Our administration has also commenced full clinical services at the Muhammadu Buhari Mother and Child Hospital, Makurdi, to reduce maternal mortality and offer free medical services to women and children under the age of five. Meanwhile, plans are underway to ensure an effective primary healthcare delivery system in the state.

    In the aspect of security of lives and property, one of our most prioritized missions has been to ensure that our people, who have been displaced by marauders, can return safely to their ancestral homes. We have therefore initiated the process by lobbying the Federal Government to begin the construction of resettlement homes for our people.

    More so, our administration, in collaboration with security agencies and relevant stakeholders, has been working round the clock to ensure that Benue is a safe haven for all.

    Although this task has been challenging, the impact so far has been very encouraging. For instance, we have nipped in the bud almost all the inter-ethnic/community skirmishes that were prevalent before and after we came into office.

    Also, farmer/herder crisis and militia attacks have been contained through both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches. And we are determined to lose no sleep until we totally secure our dear State.

    We have also signed into law, the establishment of a state security outfit known as the Benue State Civil Protection Guards: A formidable force combining our Livestock Guards and Volunteer Guards to effectively tackle insecurity in our dear state.

     My good people of Benue, make no mistakes about the misinformation making the rounds that the Anti-open Grazing Law has been repealed. As a matter of fact, the Law has been strengthened with more stringent stipulations.

    Let me use this opportunity to salute all security agencies and formations domiciled in the state, for their priceless sacrifices towards the protection of lives and property. To all volunteers of information, logistics and other efforts towards securing Benue, we are truly grateful.

    In the education sector, our administration has made great strides towards repositioning it, right from the primary to tertiary level. For instance, as part of palliatives for the removal of fuel subsidy, our administration decided to pay for the 2023/2024 examination fees of all students in government approved public secondary schools in the state sitting for the West African Examination Council (WAEC), National Examination Council (NECO), and National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB) examinations, respectively.

    At the Benue State University, we have expanded academic programmes, established new faculties, restored scholarships for medical students, and paid outstanding salary arrears. We have upgraded the ICT facilities, preparing over 10,000 youths for the global market. The idea is to train over 60,000 youths.

    As a proof of our zeal towards re-writing the narrative of the education sector in Benue, we allocated 15% of the 2024 budget to education, surpassing the 7% at the Federal level. We have also trained over 150 headteachers, and distributed over 100,000instructional materials across public schools in the state to enhance teaching and learning.

    This is coupled with the establishment of the Benue State Education Quality Assurance Agency (BEQA), saddled with the responsibility of daily monitoring and evaluation of all schools across the State, with the aim of improving the standard and qualityof education, as well as reawakening teachers and staff to their responsibilities.

    This has so far yielded huge results, notably being the recent clinching of an international debate trophy in Indonesia, by four Benue secondary school students who represented Nigeria.

    Benue under my watch, has also weeded out thousands of ghost workers, ghost schools, and ghost agencies out of our payroll. We have gone further to cut off all leakages and conduits of inefficient money consuming channels obtainable in the past.

    Let it be on record that our administration has borrowed no dime since we came on board. And we shall only do so only when it becomes extremely necessary. Prudence in governance must know us and call us by name.

    Meanwhile, it is no longer news that improved staff welfare, prompt payment of salaries and pensions/gratuities, as well as arrears, is now a mainstay under my watch. And so shall it continue to be.

    Fellow Benue citizens, I can go on and on for hours, giving you a factual account of our achievements, your achievements in the last one year. However, for want of time, I have only drawn up this summary of our journey so far.

    I reserve special thanks to all members of my team for their unsung sacrifices in the quest for a better Benue; and to all of you for your support and belief in us.

    As a government of popular consent, I am mindful of the honour and trust bestowed on me. For this, I have pushed sleep and comfort to the backseat to ensure that I live up to the expectations and terms of our social contract.

    Throughout this period, I have earned nothing close to love from those whose selfish interests I step upon to bring you comfort, happiness, and succour. But too high I place your interest above theirs, hence I have no regrets for what I have lost in the cause of this journey.

    As we mark Democracy Day celebrations, I hereby restate my commitment towards re-writing the socio-economic narrative of our dear state.

    I am forever committed to building formidable systems and institutions premised on fairness, accountability, democratic ethos, equity and justice; systems that are bigger and stronger than individuals including my humble self.

    I am counting on your continued support to our administration, so that together, we can reposition Benue on the global map.

  • FG donates 1,005 metric tons of grains to Benue

    FG donates 1,005 metric tons of grains to Benue

    The Federal Government through the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has donated 1,005 metric tons of grains to Benue State.

    Performing the ceremony on Thursday in Makurdi, the Director General (DG), NEMA, Mrs Zubaida Umar said the grains were part of the 42,000 metric tons of assorted food commodities from the National Strategic Reserve released by President Bola Tinubu.

     Umar said the assorted food commodities released included maize, millet, sorghum, and garri.

    Represented by North Central Director, Mr Bashir Garaga, the DG said after sharing the commodities Benue got  897MT of maize (17,940 bags of 50kg) and 108 MT of garri (4,324 bags of 25kg).

    She said the federal government had a sharing template that must be followed adding that all the Local Government Areas must receive equal share of the grains.

    “Please note that membership of the Committee in each LGA is made up of the Chairman of the LGA, State Emergency Management Agency, a Traditional Ruler, Department of State Services, Nigeria Police Force and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps.

    “ Others are the Faith-Based Organizations (JNI & CAN), Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees, Nigerian Red Cross Society, Women Associations, Persons With Disability Groups, Youth Associations, Principals of Boarding Schools, Civil Society Organizations and the Media.

    “It is worthy of note that based on the allocation table, Benue State has been allocated: 897MT of maize (17,940 bags of 50kg) and 1O8MT of garri (4,324 bags of 25kg)

    “Also, based on the directives of Mr President, 20 per cent of the food items due for each LGA should be given to religious organizations (JNI & CAN) and 3 per cent to be given to boarding schools in the LGAs.” she said.

    Receiving the grains, Gov Hyacinth Alia commended President Tinubu for his continuous support for the needy in the country.

    Represented by his Principal Private Secretary (PPS), Dr Emmanuel Chenge, the governor said that the state government was working assiduously to ensure that in no distant time, Benue would feed not only her citizens but the world.

    Alia said his administration was working tirelessly to encourage all Benue people to go back to their famers for improved agricultural produce by supporting them with improved seedlings and farm inputs.

    Earlier, the Acting Executive Secretary, State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Mr James Iorpuu, said the event was the official handover of Federal Government grains through the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to the state.

    Iorpuu said the event was a demonstration of President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to supporting and uplifting Nigeria citizens in times of need.

    He said NEMA’s dedication and proactive measures were vital to the well-being and resilience of Benue communities.

    “Benue State, known for its rich agricultural heritage, has faced significant challenges in recent years, including herder’s farmer’s crisis and devastating floods that have disrupted lives, displaced families, and severely impacted our agricultural sector.

    “Despite these challenges, the resilience and strength of the people of Benue have shone through.

    “Today’s presentation of grains is more than just an act of giving; it is a beacon of hope and a step towards recovery and rebuilding.

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    “The grains we receive today will provide essential sustenance to thousands of families, alleviating hunger and offering relief to those most affected by recent adversities.

    “This generous support will help stabilize our communities and provide a foundation upon which we can rebuild our lives and livelihoods.”he said

    He said SEMA would ensure fair and efficient distribution of the grains to the most vulnerable members of the communities and urged the people to remain hopeful and united for better days were ahead.

    Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Tersoo Ahule, commended President Tinubu and Gov Alia for remembering them at their times of need.

    (NAN)

  • Benue: One year of Governor Alia

    Benue: One year of Governor Alia

    By Solomon Semaka

    It    has been one year since Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Alia was inaugurated as the sixth elected governor of Benue State. The inauguration of Governor Alia was greeted with fanfare and jubilation for obvious reasons. The immediate past administration had performed poorly, leaving many citizens looking to the new administration with renewed hope. As a priest who had served in the Catholic Church for nearly three decades, Fr. Alia was seen by the electorate as a “saviour” poised to salvage the state after years of democratic decline.

    Governor Alia commenced his tenure on a strong note. Confronted with deteriorating infrastructure, he swiftly initiated the rehabilitation of township roads, many of which have now been completed to high standards. So far, 16 strategic roads within Makurdi metropolis have either been completed or are nearing completion. Additionally, the governor has embarked on the urban renewal of the state capital, including the construction of an underpass at High Level, which promises immediate and long-term benefits for traffic flow and aesthetics. Similar infrastructure projects are underway in Gboko, and rural road construction has begun in various parts of the state.

    The “Light-up Makurdi” streetlight project, which relies on solar power technology, has reached an advanced stage, giving the state capital an impressive facelift. This project aims to position Makurdi to compete with other reputable state capitals in the country.

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    Upon taking office, worker morale was at an all-time low due to inconsistent salary and pension payments. The previous administration left behind significant arrears, which weakened the purchasing power of workers and stifled the state economy. Governor Alia prioritized salaries, pensions, and gratuities, and began paying off the arrears, rekindling hope among workers and pensioners.

    To improve the work environment for civil servants, the administration undertook the rehabilitation of the Benue State Secretariat, built nearly 40 years ago by former governor, Aper Aku. The refurbished secretariat now boasts a modern look, providing a conducive environment for civil servants. The establishment of the Benue State Public Service Institute (BPSI) for training civil servants further underscores the administration’s commitment to optimal performance and support for government policies that benefit the populace.

    The Alia administration has also focused on the legislative environment by modernizing the Benue State House of Assembly complex and remodelling its clinic with state-of-the-art amenities. This ensures quality healthcare for members and staff.

    In healthcare, the administration has revitalized the Benue State University Teaching Hospital, which had been reduced to a mere consulting centre. The hospital now offers quality tertiary health services, supported by newly appointed medical and non-medical staff. The opening of the Muhammadu Buhari Mother and Child Hospital has further boosted the health system, aiming to reduce maternal mortality and provide prompt, nearly free services to women and children under five.

    Public education was in a dismal state when Governor Alia took office. The administration established the Bureau for Quality Assurance to address limitations and excesses in primary and post-primary institutions. This initiative has begun yielding results, with public school teachers now more accountable. The government’s decision to pay examination fees for all students in government-approved secondary schools for WAEC and NECO exams is a bold move to create a literate society poised for global achievements.

    The administration’s efforts in human capital development include ICT training for 10,000 Benue youths in collaboration with Google and Microsoft. This initiative aims to create local and global job opportunities for the state’s youth. Additionally, the newly established Entrepreneurship and Wealth Creation Bureau, along with the Benue State International Cooperation and Development Bureau, is expected to boost entrepreneurship and alleviate poverty.

    In the transport sector, the administration purchased 100 new buses for Benue Links to mitigate the effects of subsidy removal in the oil sector. These buses, operating on various routes, provide commercial services at subsidized rates, positively impacting the people and the state economy. The aesthetic improvement of Benue Links premises has also enhanced customer experience.

    Governor Alia has introduced fiscal discipline in government operations, curbing the reckless spending that characterized previous administrations. The administration is also tightening controls on the fiscal activities of ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) to close financial leakages.

    There is no doubt that Governor Alia’s administration has hit the ground running, instilling a sense of hope for Benue State. However, there are critical areas that require urgent attention in the coming years.

    First, the issue of insecurity has been persistent for over a decade, displacing thousands of people into internally displaced persons (IDP) camps. The government must act swiftly to provide necessary security measures to protect its citizens. Strengthening security in affected communities and enhancing intelligence gathering are also essential to consolidating on the relative peace in the state under the leadership of Governor Hycinth Alia.

    The state capital and other major towns lack potable water, which poses health risks. Despite being surrounded by major rivers, towns like Makurdi and Katsina Ala suffer from water scarcity. The greater Makurdi Water Works, completed over a decade ago, needs reticulation to benefit the people. The Alia administration should expedite this process so that facility could be put to use.

    Several state-owned companies have remained moribund. Revitalizing these through public-private partnerships could create employment opportunities and boost the state’s internal revenue and I have seen the governor is commitment to this trajectory.

    Political stability is another area of concern. Intra-party squabbles within the All Progressives Congress (APC) have resulted in factionalism occasioned by the overbearing influence of some leaders in the state. Governor Alia should continue to leverage his deep and rich background to initiate reconciliation processes to foster intra- and inter-party peace and unity, which is essential for stable governance and development. But above all, he should stand firm while looking for stability as that is the only guarantee to safeguard public trust.

    In conclusion, Governor Hyacinth Alia’s first year in office has been marked by significant strides in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and fiscal discipline, restoring hope among the people of Benue State. Addressing the identified challenges is a collective role of all stakeholders and citizens. Accepting individual responsibility will be crucial in the coming years. With continued dedication and strategic interventions, Governor Alia’s administration is set to restore Benue State on a path to sustainable development and prosperity.

    •Semaka, a public affairs commentator writes from Abuja.

  • Second Commission of Inquiry takes off in Benue

    Second Commission of Inquiry takes off in Benue

    • •Call for memoranda

    The Benue State  Second Judicial Commission of Inquiry, looking into the sales/lease of government assets, companies, and markets has called for memoranda from members of the general public.

    There are two Commissions of  Inquiry In Benue State, the Income and Expenditure Commission of Inquiry and of Sales and Lease of Government Assets 2024.

    Governor Hyacinth Alia had on 27th, February 2024  inaugurated the two commissions of Inquiry and gave them six months to complete their assignments and submit reports.

    The Chairman of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry on Sales and Lease, Justice Apollos Paul (rtd), on Monday called for memoranda in a press statement which he signed and made available to newsmen.

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    Justice Apollos said “The Commission seeks the invaluable contributions and insights of concerned individuals, organizations, stakeholders, and the general public to aid in the thorough investigations and review of the aforementioned transactions.

    The terms of reference among other things are to identify all government properties, companies, and markets that have been sold, or leased from 29th, May 2015 to 28th, May 2023.

    Determine the status and correct value of such properties, companies, and markets at time of sale/lease.

    The notice also urged all concerned individuals and organizations with relevant information, insights, or grievances related to sales/lease of government assets companies, and markets moribund companies within the period under review to come forward and contribute to the important process.

  • Benue SUBEB chair lauds Alia’s reforms in education

    Benue SUBEB chair lauds Alia’s reforms in education

    Benue State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) Executive Chairman, Dr. Grace Adagba, has praised lauded the comprehensive reform of the education sector by Governor Hyacinth Alia.

    Dr. Adagba extolled the governor’s virtues and commitment to the state’s welfare, noting that under Alia’s watch, the Benue SUBEB Debate Team emerged victorious in a bilateral debate competition held in Indonesia.

    The debate was organised by The President’s Schools Debate Nigeria (PSDN) in collaboration with the ministries of Education in Nigeria and Indonesia.

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    Mrs. Adagba described the victory as a milestone achievement reflecting the governor’s determination towards providing quality education for the Benue child and making public schools more attractive.

    He noted that the  construction of modern office blocks, establishment of the Digital Resource Centre kitted with over 30 computers, and provision of solar power, borehole facilities, interlocking of the premises, and remodeling of the gate, among others, at SUBEB headquarters have improved the working conditions and resources available to staff.

    She said: “One of the governor’s notable accomplishments is his comprehensive reform of the education sector, particularly through the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB).”

  • ‘Benue primary school structures are out of fashion’

    ‘Benue primary school structures are out of fashion’

    Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has said his administration will build good structures in primary schools across the state because the existing ones are out of fashion.

    Speaking at the inauguration of projects executed by the Executive Chairman, State Universal Basic Education Board ( SUBEB), Dr. Grace Adagba, to mark her 100 days in office, Alia stated that primary school teachers would no longer use chalk board in classes for teaching because he would provide modern instructional materials for teaching.

    The governor said the projects inaugurated were for the enhancement of Basic Education in the state by building teachers’ capacity.

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    He noted that the UBE is a basic nine-year programme that ensured all children of school age have basic education.

    He expressed satisfaction with Dr. Adagba’s performance and called on other appointees to emulate her leadership quality.

    Dr. Adagba, on her part, said the projects were made possible by the governor to revolutionise basic education.

    She urged members of staff to key into the agenda of the present administration and improve standard of basic education.

    “Through the support of the governor, I have been able to set up a Digital Resource Centre, remodel the main gate, build the new office of the executive chairman,” she said.

  • Residents embrace community policing in Benue

    Residents embrace community policing in Benue

    Communities in Guma and Katsina-Ala Local Government Areas of Benue State have taken ownership of community policing initiative as part of solutions to insecurity.

    The concept of community policing which is in line with Section 113 of the Police Act 2020, was introduced by a non-governmental organisation, Lawyers Alert, to enhance trust between the people and the security structure, so as to improve security in the state.

    The community-led solution was introduced in 2023 to dampen tensions amidst insecurity by strengthening public-police relations in the state with a 20-member committee in each area spearheading the activities.

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    At a monthly meeting of the committee in Gbajimba, the Directors General Services and Administration (DGSA) of Guma Local Government, Mr. Waku Christopher, on behalf of the entire Guma local government, donated office space to the members of the Community Policing Committee (CPC) to serve as a secretariat and operational hub.

    Mr Waku said the donation is an appreciation of the good work that the CPC is undertaking in Guma to strengthen relationships and bring about harmony in the community.

    He said “This project implemented by Lawyers Alert has already started changing the interface between the community and the security personnel in the region. On behalf of the Guma Local Government Council, we thank Lawyers Alert and the CPC for spearheading this community-driven initiative.”

    In Katsina-Ala, Hon. Justine Orangoholga Shaku, the Caretaker Chairman, lauded the initiative and the good work the CPC is doing in the communities.

  • Troops dislodge terrorists, rescue kidnap victims in Taraba, Benue

    Troops dislodge terrorists, rescue kidnap victims in Taraba, Benue

    Troops of 6 Brigade/Sector 3 Operation WHIRL STROKE operating in Taraba and Benue states have dislodged terrorists and recovered arms and ammunition.

    The team also arrested a  kidnap suspect and rescued some victims.

    A statement yesterday by Army spokesperson, Lt. O. Oni, said the operation took place between April 27 and 29. According to him, the troops acted on information that the terrorists were gathering and shooting sporadically. He said the superior firepower of the troops led to the terrorists fleeing.

    The statement reads: “Troops of the 93 Battalion Sub-Sector 3B OPWS, stationed at Fikyu, on April 29, responded to reports of suspected terrorists firing sporadically in the Pukun area of Fikyu, Ussa Local Government Area. The troops engaged them with superior firepower, forcing their retreat. A further search of the area led to the recovery of one AK-47 Magazine with 10 rounds of 7.62MM special ammunition.

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    “Additionally, troops deployed in Kufai Amadu and Kasuwan Haske, in collaboration with troops from Sub-Sector 1A OPWS, acted on intelligence regarding the hideout of terrorists in Vingir Village of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State. The terrorists were engaged with superior firepower, leading to their withdrawal in disarray.

    “The troops arrested a suspected kidnapper named Dogo Manu, who was found in possession of two mobile phones and N40,000. A search of their camp resulted in the recovery of one AK-47 rifle. The troops also secured the release of kidnapped victims, Dr. James Raphael and his son, in Gbeji, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.

    “Also, one Junaidu Isiaka was apprehended by the troops with four sacks of substance suspected to be cannabis sativa in connection with terrorists’ activities in Bali Local Government Area of Taraba State.

    “The suspect has been on the watch list of security agencies for his involvement in illegal drugs deal and supplies to terrorists and other criminal elements operating within the general area.”

  • Benue insecurity and attempted vilification of Jonathan Agbidyeh

    Benue insecurity and attempted vilification of Jonathan Agbidyeh

    Benue State remains a focal point of concern on Nigeria’s security landscape, particularly due to the persistent challenges of insecurity and banditry. Within this state, Sankera stands out as an area plagued by intense attacks and ongoing security threats, encompassing Katstina Ala, Ukum, and Logo local government areas. The complexity of the security situation in Sankera defies simple categorisation, as it involves a combination of factors. While the presence of ungoverned spaces exacerbates the issue, internal security dynamics within local communities further compound the challenges. Additionally, the infiltration of herdsmen has intensified the crisis, leading to widespread violence, loss of lives numbering in the hundreds, and destruction of property amounting to billions of naira.

    Despite efforts to address the situation, including the elimination of notorious militia leader Terwase Agwaza, known as Gana, who hailed from Sankera, sustainable peace remains elusive in the region. The need for a multifaceted approach that addresses both internal and external security dynamics is increasingly apparent, as the residents of Sankera continue to grapple with the specter of violence and instability. The militarisation of Sankera represents a troubling chapter in the history of Benue State, casting a shadow over the lives of its people. This regrettable phenomenon originated from the involvement of certain politicians in the Sankera region but unfortunately persists beyond their tenure, with some still enjoying undeserved reputations.

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    Addressing this crisis demands a comprehensive, objective approach free from personal agendas and the pursuit of individual acclaim. True resolution requires genuine efforts untainted by bias or attempts to scapegoat individuals, including respected figures like Rt. Hon. Jonathan Agbidyeh, a prominent member of the Benue State House of Assembly hailing from Sankera. By embracing a holistic strategy rooted in fairness and collective welfare, we can begin to dismantle the entrenched militarisation of Sankera and pave the way for lasting peace and progress in the region. It’s imperative that we rise above partisan divides and prioritize the well-being of all citizens in our pursuit of reconciliation and stability.

    On March 18, this lawmaker faced his second encounter with security agencies, entangled in high-profile charges linked to insecurity. Despite the shadows cast upon his reputation, Jonathan Agbidyeh’s professional journey was initially unmarred, marked by a distinguished career in the civil service before his foray into politics. Over the years, he has garnered significant goodwill and recognition for his generosity towards his constituents. His recent release from detention, once again, raises questions about the motivations behind his repeated arrests. It suggests a reluctance on the part of security agencies to be drawn into what appears to be a politically motivated vendetta against Agbidyeh. Notably, the courts had previously acquitted him of similar charges during the tenure of the 9th Assembly, during which his colleagues, despite political differences, offered him moral support.

    The circumstances surrounding Agbidyeh’s repeated brushes with the law underscore the need for a fair and impartial investigation, untainted by political influences. It is imperative that justice be served without prejudice, ensuring that individuals are not unfairly targeted or victimized for their political affiliations. In the pursuit of transparency and the rule of law, it is essential to uphold the principles of due process and safeguard the integrity of our democratic institutions.

    The conspicuous silence of the 10th Benue Assembly, led by Speaker Aondona Dajoh, amidst the tribulations faced by one of its own, Jonathan Agbidyeh, is indeed troubling. Despite being dominated by the APC, with Agbidyeh as a prominent member, their collective response to his ordeal has been notably absent.

    This stands in stark contrast to the Assembly’s proactive stance in the past, such as when they swiftly convened sessions and passed resolutions to suspend a local government council Chairman over allegations of an assassination attempt on the Speaker. The lack of similar legislative support for Agbidyeh during his prolonged detention by security agencies raises questions about the Assembly’s solidarity and commitment to its members, particularly in times of crisis. The silence of the Assembly members during this trying period not only reflects poorly on their solidarity as colleagues but also raises concerns about their ability to uphold principles of justice and fairness within the legislative framework. It is imperative that elected representatives demonstrate unwavering support for their colleagues in times of adversity, regardless of political affiliations, in order to uphold the integrity of democratic institutions and ensure accountability within the governance structure.

    The persistence of cheap and vindictive politics within the leadership of the Benue State House of Assembly poses a grave threat to our democratic system. It is imperative that we safeguard the integrity of our democratic institutions and prevent them from being manipulated for personal vendettas or political gain. The repeated release of Rt. Hon. Jonathan Agbidyeh should serve as a stark warning to his detractors, emphasizing the need to separate politics from security issues. The ongoing trial and attempts to scapegoat him not only undermine the principles of justice and fairness but also distract from the urgent task of addressing the security challenges in Sankera and beyond. It is time for the actors involved to cease their misguided efforts and allow Agbidyeh to resume his legislative functions unhindered. Let us prioritize the well-being of the people and focus on finding sustainable solutions to the security crisis, rather than engaging in divisive and counterproductive political plots.