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Tag: Governor Alia

  • UAST Ihugh: Governor Alia’s visionary leap for agricultural, scientific, technological transformation

    UAST Ihugh: Governor Alia’s visionary leap for agricultural, scientific, technological transformation

    • By Donald Kumun

    The establishment of the University of Agriculture, Science and Technology (UAST), Ihugh, in Benue State, is not merely an academic milestone; it is a visionary move with far-reaching impacts for educational advancement, agricultural innovation, technological transformation, and socioeconomic development in Benue State, and Nigeria as a whole.

    This bold initiative by the Governor of the State, His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, reflects foresight, inclusivity, equity, and a pragmatic commitment to rural development, and youth empowerment.

    The vision of UAST is to become a leading institution in agricultural research, scientific innovation, and technological excellence that addresses local and global challenges in food production, sustainability, and development. It aspires to be a cradle of knowledge and innovation that fuels productivity, and self-reliance, especially in agricultural communities.

    Its mission is built around the necessity to provide high-quality education, and research in agriculture, science, and technology; to train skilled manpower that can drive agribusiness, promote rural development, and contribute to national food security and general food sovereignty across the Nigerian nation and the African continent. The university will also prioritize community engagement and the application of research to real-world challenges facing farmers, entrepreneurs, and policymakers.

    Recall that the invitation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to Governor Alia to accompany him to Brazil sometime this year (2025), is a testament that will also add energy to the University, owing to the relevance of the trip. At the invitation of President Luiz Inacio Lula Da Silva, the President of Brazil, the Nigerian leader, and the Governor, attended a bilateral meeting at the inter-governmental summit of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) and newly developed economies summit, which deeply exposed the Governor to keynote presentations that injected reform ideas of the President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at repositioning the state’s economy with agriculture, playing a crucial role. And the University of Agriculture, Science, and Technology, Ihugh, was also factored into the equation.

    This, essentially, has attracted investors to Nigeria, and Benue State in particular – will sure capitalise on the abundant opportunities embedded in the generous journey with Mr. President.

    As he (the President), hopes to attract investors to capitalise on Nigeria’s opportunities in agriculture, solid minerals, healthcare, and alternative energy, the University is strategically positioned to key into the framework.

    The siting of UAST in Ihugh, Vandeikya Local Government Area of the State, opens a new chapter for the host community. Historically rural and agrarian, the community stands to benefit from a range of transformative impacts such as:

    Economic Empowerment: The influx of students, faculty, construction workers, and businesses will stimulate local commerce, housing, transportation, and small enterprises.

    Job Creation: Immediate employment opportunities in construction, logistics, food supply, security, and administration will lift many families out of poverty.

    Access to Education: Proximity to a tertiary institution will inspire local youth to pursue higher education, increasing literacy and professional capacity in the area.

    Infrastructure Development: The University’s presence will accelerate the provision of road networks, electricity, water supply, healthcare, and other essential amenities.

    Cultural Integration: The influx of diverse people will enhance intercultural exchange and position the host community as a melting pot of ideas and innovation.

    The surrounding local government areas — Konshisha, Ushongo, Kwande, Gboko and the northern local government areas of Cross River State – stand to benefit immensely from spillover effects. The emergence of academic and research clusters will open opportunities for:

    Satellite campuses and research farms.

    Outreach programs focusing on agricultural extension services, training of local farmers, and introduction of modern farming methods.

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    Market linkages for local produce through university-driven agribusiness hubs.

    For Benue State, the Middle-Belt or North Central geo-political zone and Nigeria as a whole, UAST is a strategic weapon in the fight against rural poverty, youth unemployment, food insecurity and national food sovereignty. Known as the “Food Basket of the Nation,” Benue’s economy is heavily reliant on agriculture – the same fate which characterizes the entirety of Northern Nigeria. However, the sector has remained underproductive due to outdated practices and limited access to research-based innovation.

    With UAST, the state now has a specialized institution that will:

    Conduct climate-smart agricultural research, promote the use of improved seedlings, irrigation, pest control, and mechanized farming;Partner with private sector players and donor agencies in value-chain development and agro-processing. This will diversify the economy, increase internally generated revenue (IGR), and position Benue as an agricultural hub not just by volume, but by value.

    On a national scale, the university’s establishment reflects alignment with the Federal Government’s priorities in education, food security, and technological innovation. UAST will:

    Provide research-based policy recommendations on food sufficiency and rural development; serve as a training ground for future scientists, engineers, agronomists, and technologists needed to drive national productivity; Mitigate the challenge of over-centralized universities by decentralizing higher education to rural areas; help curb rural-urban migration through job creation and development initiatives tied to the university ecosystem.

    Furthermore, the University is strategically poised to collaborate with global research institutes and development agencies like the FAO, IFAD, and the African Development Bank in projects that require localized implementation of global ideas.

    Governor Alia’s strategic calculus is timely. Many may ask: Why Ihugh? Why not Makurdi or Gboko or any other major town? The answer lies in the multi-dimensional strategic reasoning behind Governor Alia’s decision: Rural Balance and Inclusion: The Governor’s administration is premised on equity, inclusion and even distribution of development. Siting the university in Ihugh sends a powerful message that no community is too small to be transformed.

    Agricultural Significance: Ihugh and its environs in Vandeikya, Konshisha, Kwande, Ushongo and the northern local governments of Cross River State, are deeply rooted in farming traditions. Their soil fertility, topography, and climate are ideal for experimental farms, agricultural training, and field-based research.

    Geopolitical Strategy: The university’s location in Zone A, ensures geographic equity in educational infrastructure. Makurdi houses the Federal University of Agriculture (now Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University), while Ihugh will now host the state-owned counterpart in the eastern flank of the state.

    Security and Accessibility: Ihugh’s relative peace and central location within Vandeikya LGA makes it suitable for academic investments without the risks associated with high-conflict zones.

    Community Enthusiasm: The people of Ihugh are known for their educational zeal and hospitality. Their embrace of the university project ensures a supportive environment for sustained development.

    To fully harness the potential of UAST, stakeholders must ensure: Partnerships with industries, NGOs, and international bodies to boost innovation and resource mobilization; Curriculum flexibility and vocational training, tailored to modern challenges; Transparency and merit-based appointments in university leadership to be ensured in order to uphold the vision and mission of the institution.

    Governor Alia’s decision to establish the University of Agriculture, Science and Technology in Ihugh for the Benue State Government, is a landmark legacy that will echo in the anals of contemporary history for generations to come. It is a clarion call to innovation, empowerment, and rural transformation.

    As the foundation has commenced in honest for what could become the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) of West Africa’s agricultural and technological development, all hands must be on deck to support this noble endeavor.

    Today, Benue State under the watch of the Executive Governor of the State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, as its dynamic servant-leader, stands at the cusp of a new dawn, and Ihugh is its shining beacon.

    • Donald Kumun, is the Principal Special Assistant to the Benue State Governor on Print Media, and writes from Makurdi, the Capital.
  • Perfect time to support Governor Alia for an assured mutual prosperity

    Perfect time to support Governor Alia for an assured mutual prosperity

    By Donald Kumun

    In the unfolding story of Benue State, the year 2025 presents a defining moment—a period where the unity of our people, the clarity of our collective vision, and the depth of our commitment to one another has dramatically determined the destiny of our beloved state.

    At the heart of this journey is the Executive Governor of Benue State, His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, whose bold reforms, transformative policies, and people-centered governance, have set the state on a path toward assured and shared prosperity. This is, indeed, a time to rally behind him, not merely as individuals pursuing personal gain, but as a people bound by a common purpose—the creation of a thriving Benue where every citizen enjoys dignity, security, and opportunity.

    To achieve this, we must embrace the concept of mutual prosperity and galvanize collective support for the visionary leadership that is laying the foundation for sustainable development.

    Mutual prosperity is a philosophy of shared growth, shared responsibility, and shared benefits. It recognizes that when a leader succeeds in creating an enabling environment for progress, the people reap the rewards; and when the people contribute their loyalty, cooperation, and unwavering support, governance becomes smoother, policies gain traction, and society advances at a faster pace.

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    In essence, mutual prosperity means that the wellbeing of the leader and the led are interconnected. It is only in a few instances that a leader can deliver on his mandate without the trust and support of his people, and no people can achieve economic stability, peace, and social progress without effective leadership. This dynamic partnership between government and the governed is the only pathway to lasting transformation.

    Governor Alia’s administration has embraced this principle wholeheartedly—channeling resources into projects that prioritize collective wellbeing rather than narrow interests. But for these efforts to achieve their maximum impact, the people of Benue must reciprocate by lending unalloyed support, unity, and loyalty to his vision.

    Across history, great nations and prosperous societies, have always triumphed when they stood united in the face of adversity. Today, Benue State is confronted with challenges—from security threats to economic uncertainties, inherited infrastructural deficits, and the long-standing humanitarian burden of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). These are not ordinary times. But they are not insurmountable times either. With unity of purpose, we can overcome. The greatest danger to our collective progress is not the strength of our challenges, but the weakness of our solidarity. A divided people cannot confront a common enemy.

    Governor Alia’s vision for a prosperous Benue, depends on the people coming together, setting aside political, ethnic, and ideological differences, and prioritizing the welfare of the state above all other primordial considerations. Partisan divides must give way to collective determination. Personal grievances must bow to the overarching goal of development. This is not the time for cynicism, sabotage, or distractions—it is a time to stand shoulder to shoulder in defense of the Benue dream.

    When the governed give their total loyalty and sincere cooperation to their leader, several natural benefits accrue. A united citizenry reduces distractions, minimizes resistance to government policies, and creates an environment where strategic projects are executed seamlessly, which accelerates development. When the people work hand-in-hand with government, sharing intelligence and supporting security measures, communities become safer and investors gain confidence, which enhances security. A cohesive population strengthens the governor’s negotiating power at the national level, attracting federal presence, donor funding, and private sector partnerships, which leads to stronger representation.

    When there is synergy between leadership and followership, growth is not only faster but also more inclusive, ensuring opportunities trickle down to rural communities, youth, and vulnerable groups. This brings about inclusive prosperity. Supporting Governor Alia is not about blind loyalty; it is about strategic partnership—a recognition that his success is our collective success.

    It should be well noted that since assuming office, the Governor has demonstrated uncommon courage, vision, and dedication to reposition the State. His approach to governance is bold, deliberate, and result-oriented. A closer look at his achievements underscores why his leadership deserves our unwavering support.

    Under the Governor, Benue State has witnessed unprecedented interventions in addressing insecurity. Through collaborative efforts with the Nigerian Navy, a Special Operations Base was established in Makurdi, enhancing rapid response to threats. His administration has also provided logistical support to security agencies and strengthened community-based policing to tackle herders’ attacks, banditry, and kidnapping. Other security commitment by the Governor, abound.

    Governor Alia’s infrastructure revolution has transformed the landscape of the state. Strategic road projects are ongoing across Makurdi, Gboko, Otukpo, and other major towns, opening up rural communities and boosting commerce. Urban renewal initiatives are upgrading drainage systems, modernizing transport networks, and enhancing the overall livability of Benue’s cities.

    Recognizing that no State prospers beyond the quality of its people, Governor Alia has prioritized education. His administration has constructed, and  renovated both primary and secondary schools across the 23 local government areas of the State, supplied modern learning materials, and introduced teacher retraining programs, to improve learning outcomes. Scholarships and bursaries have also been extended to deserving students, demonstrating his commitment to empowering the next generation.

    As the “Food Basket of the Nation,” Benue’s prosperity depends largely on agricultural transformation. Hence, Governor Alia has revitalized the sector through investments in mechanized farming, fertilizer subsidies, and rural extension services. Partnerships with private investors have opened new frontiers in rice, yam, and cassava value chains, creating jobs and boosting food security.

    Working closely with the United Nations Habitat, Governor Alia has initiated sustainable plans to return thousands of IDPs to their ancestral homes with dignity. This compassionate approach not only restores livelihoods, but also heals the wounds of years of conflicts.

    Determined to restore transparency, and efficiency, the Governor’s administration, has introduced digital systems for salary payments, eliminated ghost workers, and enforced accountability measures. These reforms have saved billions of naira and ensured that public resources directly benefit the people.

    Rev. Fr. Dr.  Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has laid the foundation for a new Benue—one that promises security, economic growth, and shared prosperity. But foundations, no matter how solid, must be built upon, which requires our collective willpower. To realize the full benefits of his reforms, Benue people must reject division and embrace solidarity, counter misinformation and focus on facts, support government policies, designed to uplift everyone, not just a few, and be active partners in implementing grassroots initiatives, and holding leaders accountable constructively. The truth is simple: no leader can succeed alone. When the led and the leader walk hand in hand, progress is inevitable. But when trust breaks down, development stalls, and prosperity slips away.

    Benue State stands at the threshold of transformation. Governor Alia has demonstrated leadership anchored on vision, courage, and compassion. He has confronted the challenges of insecurity, invested in the people, revitalized the economy, and set the state on a trajectory toward greatness. But this promise of prosperity can only be fulfilled if we, the people, rise to the occasion.

    By standing united, supporting our governor, and contributing meaningfully to his vision, we create a Benue where opportunity is abundant, security is assured, and dignity is restored. Now is not the time for division. Now is not the time for cynicism. Now is the time to support Governor Alia—because his success is our collective success, and his vision is the gateway to an assured prosperity.

    • Donald Kumun, is the Principal Special Assistant to the Benue State Governor on Print Media, and writes from Makurdi the State Capital.

  • A voice from the Villa: Governor Alia’s impactful legacy projects

    A voice from the Villa: Governor Alia’s impactful legacy projects

    By Bridget Tikyaa

    When on May 29, 2023 Rev. Fr Hyacinth Iormem Alia was sworn in as the Governor of Benue State, he made a solemn pledge to provide the required leadership to tackle the appalling situation of the state in all areas of development, from security to infrastructure, welfare of civil servants and pensioners, the collapsed government owned industries, agriculture, health care and education, among others.

    Addressing insecurity, returning displaced persons home, Industrialization through agriculture and massive rural development, creating opportunities through a revitalized commerce and industry space, building the capabilities of the people through human capital and social development, infrastructure to support economic growth, and enabling digital transformation  and the skills needed through investment in information and communications technology, ICT.

    His vision, so far, has been driven through participatory, consensus-driven, accountable, transparent, responsive, effective, efficient, equitable, and inclusive governance and adherence to the rule of law.

    Thus, when on Friday, 29th August, 2025, the Governor Alia and his media team, led by the Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, unveiled his comprehensive scorecard before the media, it was more of a celebration of two years of excellence, an impactful legacy that has positively touched lives, transformed institutions and pulled Benue State from the brinks of total collapse it was in before he assumed duty.

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    The media team led by veteran journalist and presidential spokesman, Mr Bayo Onanuga, was in the state to appraise first hand, the fruits of Governor Alia’s labour, and to lent credence to the narrative of development, currently unfolding in Benue State.

    The achievements paraded were not mere abstract figures or promises, but concrete and impactful projects that are transforming the Benue landscape and positively touching the lives of the people.  From massive roads construction and rehabilitation, to significant strides in Agriculture, Healthcare, Education, ICT, Industrialization, humanitarian sector, land administration and others, the scorecard was a testament to a focused and deliberate approach to governance. It showed a government that understands the fundamental needs of its people and is working tirelessly to address them.

    For Governor Alia, the visit by the Onanuga-led media team was a welcome development, as it will help to counter the misinformation being peddled by political jobbers, who are clearly uneasy by the giant strides recorded by the administration in two years and put to shame their years of wastefulness that had dragged Benue State aground before the coming of his administration.

    He made a solemn pledge to complete more legacy projects before the end of his first term in office. A pledge that attests to the fact that the next two years will be purposeful, and the government will push all boundaries to leave a lasting positive impact on the state.

    The governor harped on the importance of partnership with the Federal Government and development partners to drive more development and deliver more legacy projects in line with his administration’s commitment, which has been built on a foundation of strategic planning, and a clear vision.

    As aptly captured by the governor, the key catalyst for these achievements is the robust and cordial relationship between Benue and the federal government. This synergy has proven to be a significant advantage to the state, as it has been unlocking opportunities and resources that might otherwise have been inaccessible. It’s a clear example of how inter-governmental collaboration can accelerate development and bring about meaningful change for the populace.

    This positive relationship has transformed the dynamics of governance in the state. By aligning with the federal agenda for progress, the Benue State Government has been able to leverage support and expertise, leading to a more efficient and impactful implementation of its policies and projects. It is a strategic partnership that prioritizes the welfare of the people above every other consideration. Governor Alia and his administration have demonstrated its capacity for effective leadership and its unwavering commitment to progress.

    Impressed by the development strides in the last two years, Onanuga said rallying around the Governor, is not just a call for political support, but a collective push for the continued delivery of the dividends of democracy that have already begun to transform the state.

    He expressed profound satisfaction with the tangible progress on the ground, insisting that the visit served as a crucial fact-finding mission that directly counter the often-malicious and unfounded claims made by political detractors, about the Governor’s administration.

    This is indeed the triumph of reality over rhetoric, a stark rebuke to those who have sought to undermine the governor’s efforts through a campaign of misinformation and reckless narratives.

    The Presidential Spokesman media team visit is a powerful validation of the governor’s true leadership and a clear signal that the federal government recognizes and appreciates the genuine development taking place in Benue State. It effectively neutralizes the baseless criticisms by the detractors.

    • Bridget Tikyaa is the Principal Special Assistant to the Governor on Media Publicity and Communication Strategy

  • Assessing Governor Alia at mid-term

    Assessing Governor Alia at mid-term

    SIR: Since his inauguration in May 2023, Governor Hyacinth Alia has faced sustained resistance from a faction within the Benue State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), particularly those aligned with the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume. The political rift, though not unprecedented in Nigeria’s volatile democratic environment, raises serious concerns for party cohesion, governance stability, and the long-term development of Benue State.

    Governor Alia’s emergence as APC candidate in 2022 defied the expectations of entrenched political stakeholders, especially within the Akume-led faction that had dominated Benue APC politics for over a decade. A Catholic priest with no prior political office, Alia drew massive grassroots support, especially from disenchanted youth and apolitical voters yearning for change. His populist appeal disrupted traditional power equations.

    Akume loyalists viewed Alia’s rise as a threat to their influence. Tensions escalated over alleged sidelining of their interests in appointments, access to the governor, and resource control. The rift deepened post-election, as Alia reportedly bypassed party structures and stalwarts perceived to be loyal to Akume in strategic decisions.

    To his credit, Governor Alia has made efforts—some discreet and others public—to bridge the widening gap. He has met with party elders, sought the intervention of national APC leadership, and extended olive branches through strategic appointments. At various fora, Alia has reiterated his openness to reconciliation, emphasising his commitment to governance over politics.

    He has appointed a few individuals perceived as Akume allies into his administration, albeit cautiously. There have also been informal peace meetings initiated by mutual associates to broker understanding. Yet, these have yielded only modest results.

    Several factors have stymied genuine reconciliation. Mutual Distrust:  The SGF camp believes Alia is determined to dismantle their political structure. On the other hand, Alia’s inner circle fears any concession may empower rivals to undermine his administration. Lack of a Neutral Mediator: Most attempts at reconciliation have lacked a credible, neutral mediator with moral authority over both camps.  Parallel Power Interests:  While Alia seeks to assert his authority as governor, Akume’s loyalists aim to preserve influence and possibly control future party nominations. Weak Party Structures: The Benue APC lacks a functional and trusted party leadership that can broker internal peace with legitimacy.

    The disunity in Benue APC has direct and indirect implications. Disrupted Policy Continuity: Distracted leadership and infighting delay strategic policy execution. Polarised Governance: Appointments and development programmes are often interpreted through the lens of factional allegiance rather than merit. Erosion of Public Confidence: Citizens become disillusioned when political leaders prioritise personal rifts over collective progress. Weakened Negotiation Clout:  The rift diminishes Benue’s leverage in national political bargaining, even with the SGF being from the state. Benue needs a united front otherwise something needs to give way for the common good, and this is the outdated status quo.

    Reconciliation remains possible but requires sincere and deliberate steps. Open Dialogue: A private but honest dialogue between Governor Alia and Senator Akume, facilitated by a respected non-partisan figure. Identifying and engaging this “respected non-partisan figure” is a challenge presently; can President Tinubu step in as a “non-partisan” arbiter?  Shared Vision:

    Both leaders must define and commit to a common developmental vision for Benue. What is Akume ‘s non-partisan developmental vision for Benue, and where is the divergent point from Alia’s? Akume has not yet communicated this eloquently. Inclusive Governance: Alia could adopt a more inclusive approach in appointments without undermining his authority. If he can demonstrate this in the second half of his term, it could be a symbolic olive branch to Akume ‘s camp. Politics is an art of reading the winds.

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    Suggestions for Governor Alia –   Engage in Strategic Listening: Alia should regularly consult with a broader spectrum of stakeholders, including critics. Reinvigorate the APC State Machinery: Empowering credible party officials to mediate tensions will restore party unity. The adjective “credible” is an irreducible quality.  Develop a Legacy Plan: Prioritise signature projects that reflect people-centered governance over political survival. Keep Communication Channels Open: Both formal and informal communication with all factions is essential.  Involve Religious and Traditional Institutions: These bodies carry moral weight and can help mediate with credibility.

    Governor Alia’s midterm report will not be judged solely by infrastructure or economic indicators. His ability to unite the Benue APC, foster inclusive governance, and rise above political pettiness will form a critical part of his legacy. The people of Benue deserve not just good roads and policies, but a united leadership working for their collective future.

    • Leonard Karshima Shilgba shilgba@gmail.com
  • Christmas: Governor Alia pays surprise visit to orphanage homes in Benue

    Christmas: Governor Alia pays surprise visit to orphanage homes in Benue

    Benue state governor, Hyacinth Alia, made an unexpected visit to two orphanage homes in Makurdi on Monday, emphasizing his dedication to improving the lives of vulnerable children.

    Driving himself, Governor Alia visited Mama Abayol Orphanage Home and Gidan Bege Orphanage Home, where he personally presented each child with two pairs of Christmas shoes and clothes, assuring them they are loved and not forgotten.

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    In his address, Governor Alia reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to making life better for every child in Benue and encouraged the children to maintain hope and faith in God.

    Orphanage officials praised the governor’s gesture as “unprecedented and a first of its kind,” noting his unannounced arrival without his usual entourage, which highlighted his genuine concern for the well-being of the less privileged in society.

  • Foreign varsity honours Benue Governor Alia

    Foreign varsity honours Benue Governor Alia

    Benue State Governor Rev. Fr.  Hyacinth Iormem Alia has been awarded a honorary Doctorate Degree by Ernest Bai Koroma University of Science and Technology, Sierra Leone.

    Alia, who made this known  through his Principal Special Assistant on Print Media, Donald Kumun, said: “I am delighted to announce that the Ernest Bai Koroma University of Science and Technology, Sierra Leone, found me worthy of a Honorary Doctorate Degree. I extend my appreciation to the entire leadership and staff of the Ernest Bai Koroma University of Science and Technology, Sierra Leone.”

    Speaking at the fifth Congregational Ceremony for the Conferment of Degrees and Award of Diplomas and Certificates to the 2022/2023 graduands of the university, in Magbura, Sierra Leone, the governor identified public/private partnership as a potential solution to the challenges of financing higher education in Africa.

    He said the challenges of financing higher education in Africa, have become daunting, stressing on the increasing nature of financial constraints faced by educational institutions, and the rising tuition fees that students and their families are facing to grapple with.

    “In today’s rapidly evolving world, challenges of financing higher education have become daunting. Educational institutions face increasing financial constraints, while students and their families grapple with rising tuition fees”, he said.

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    He noted that limited public funding, in addition to increasing students’  demands, has placed so much pressure on institutions, and threatens the quality and accessibility of education, which, according to him, the public/private partnership has emerged as a potential solution to sustain and enhance the quality of higher education in Africa.

    The governor had a stint at the famous St. Joseph of Moriado Formation House, Makeni, where he met with some seminarians of the Roman Catholic Church, and the head of the Formation House, Novice Master Bruno, in Sierra Leone.

    He also participated in the feast day celebration of Michael Tansi Quasi Parish, Goderich Barracks, and was treated to a dinner at the house of Most Rev. Edward Tamba Charles, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Freetown.

    He was accompanied by the Benue State Commissioner for Education and Knowledge Management, Rev. Fredrick Ikyaan; the Vice Chancellor of Benue State University, Prof. Joseph Tor Iorapuu; the Chairman, State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Dr. Grace Adagba; former Nigerian Ambassador to Russia and the Republic of Belarus, Prof. Steve Ugba, among others.