Governor Hyacinth Alia’s assumption of office in Benue State in 2023 is generally regarded as a blessing for the people of the North Central State, particularly because of his unprecedented commitment demonstrated so far by fostering development, peace, and social welfare.
His leadership has enshrined a fresh wave of public trust, a renewed sense of hope and progress across the state.
One of the most notable areas of his governance is agriculture and food security. Benue State, known as the “Food Basket of the Nation,” thrives under policies that support farmers with improved inputs, mechanised equipment, and access to markets.
For instance, the Governor’s administration has facilitated the distribution of farm implements and modern irrigation systems, like tractors of various brands and capacities, ranging from 25hp to 95hp, alongside several complementary farm implements, including combine harvesters, different types of threshers, planters/fertilizer applicators, excavators, and yam mounders, enabling both small-scale and commercial farmers to increase yield. This not only boosts local food supply but also generates income and employment, impacting the livelihoods of thousands of residents.
In the area of infrastructural development, Governor Alia has demonstrated visionary leadership. Special attention is given to the hitherto almost totally forgotten basic school system with massive reconstruction, construction, and rehabilitation of classrooms and offices. Roads linking rural communities to major towns, such as the Igumale-Apa-Agila road, Awajir-Mbaiase-Oju road, Mbawuar-Mbause-Anhyula road, Gbem-Hegha-Use-Ushongo road, Vandeikya-Tse Mker-Koti – Adikpo Road, and many others, are at various stages of completion, reducing travel time and enhancing trade.
Governor Alia’s administration is speedily and painstakingly reconstructing and improving key infrastructures in Makurdi, the capital of the Food Basket State. Major inner-city roads have been constructed and rehabilitated, drainage systems have been expanded, and streetlights have been installed across the state along almost all strategic streets and important corridors, easing movement and reducing flooding. These unprecedented upgrades have enhanced the city’s functionality and security.
His government has also revitalised public utilities and social facilities, including selected healthcare centres, schools, and market areas. Efforts in urban sanitation, beautification, and the upgrading of public structures have given Makurdi a cleaner, more organized, and more livable outlook befitting of a modern state capital.
Projects such as the electrification of remote villages with solar power and improvements to healthcare facilities across the state have directly improved living standards. For example, newly equipped hospitals and expanded primary healthcare centres ensure that citizens have better access to medical services, reduced mortality rates, and improved general community health.
Alia’s administration has also prioritised peacebuilding and security, particularly in a state that has historically faced unprovoked attacks, invasions, and communal clashes. Through relentless synergy with the country’s security echelons, dialogue, mediation, and collaboration with local leaders, his government has created platforms for resolving conflicts and promoting coexistence. The introduction, equipping, and funding of community policing initiatives have further strengthened security, ensuring that citizens feel safe in their homes and businesses.
Another blessing is his focus on youth empowerment and education. By providing scholarships and bond schemes, skills-acquisition programs, and vocational training, such as the training of over 10,000 in ICT, Governor Alia has created opportunities for young people to contribute meaningfully to society. For example, several youths have benefited from agricultural training programmes and technical education initiatives, such as the over 900 trained in assembling and repairing tractors and other mechanisation equipment, equipping them with practical skills for self-reliance.
Commerce and Industry are not left out, as industrialisation is in top gear in the state, with orange juice, nails, water, and bread factories and breweries already operational and yielding. These have already generated employment for the youth of the state and, in the near future, will boost Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).
Lastly, Governor Alia’s governance style emphasises transparency, accountability, and collaboration. Apart from restoring the dignity of the Benue workforce and instilling discipline and order in the civil service, his administration consistently engages stakeholders in decision-making, ensuring that policies reflect the needs of the people. This unusual, inclusive approach enhances trust and strengthens the democratic process in the state.
Consequently, Governor Hyacinth Alia’s leadership has touched multiple aspects of life in Benue State, from agriculture, education, infrastructure, and healthcare to security, youth empowerment, and good governance. Through his pragmatic and people-centred policies, the Governor’s coming to power in 2023 represents a blessing that promises sustained growth, social stability, and improved quality of life for the citizens of Benue State.
It is, therefore, safe to point out that Benue people made no mistake by electing Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia as Governor. His development footprint is already visible across the state. The vision is still on. The laudable strides highlighted, as the Reverend Gentleman himself has continued to reiterate at public fora, are just a tip of the iceberg. He has his eyes fixed on the goal post, with a burning desire, and will deliver more in the remaining 6 years of his administration.
We rely on testimonies on the streets. Benue is bigger than any individual. The people are speaking. It was the people who made the choice, and they were already proud of their choice. The Clarion call is for Benue people to keep praying for God’s sent blessing, Governor Alia, and his administration.
Sir Tersoo Kula is the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Benue State.
