Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia, 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, mechanized 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 infrastructure development, Governor Alia has demonstrated visionary leadership.
Special attention is given to the hitherto almost totally forgotten primary school system with massive reconstruction, construction and rehabilitation of classrooms and offices. Roads linking rural communities, to major towns like, 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 advanced levels of completion reducing travel time and enhancing trade.
Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration is speedily and painstakingly reconstructing and improving key infrastructures in Makurdi, the state capital of the Food Basket State. Major inner-city roads have been constructed, rehabilitated, drainage systems expanded, and streetlights installed round the state along almost all strategic streets and vital corridors, easing movement, security and easing flooding.
These unprecedented upgrades have enhanced the city’s functionality and security. His government has also revitalized public utilities and social facilities, including selected healthcare centers, 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 electrification of remote villages with solar power and improvement of healthcare facilities across the state have directly improved living standards. For example, newly equipped hospitals and expanded primary healthcare centers ensure that citizens have better access to medical services, reducing mortality rates and improving general community health.
Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration has also prioritized 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 agencies, dialogue, mediation, and collaboration with traditional leaders, the Alia administration has created platforms for resolving conflicts and promoting coexistence.
The introduction, equipping and funding of community policing initiatives has 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 bonds schemes, skills acquisition programs, and vocational training, like the training of over 10,000 youth on ICT applications, Governor Alia has created employment opportunities for young people to contribute meaningfully to society. For example, numerous youths have benefited from agricultural training programs and technical education initiatives, like the over 900 trained in assembling and repairing of tractors and other mechanization machines and Equipment, equipping them with practical skills for self-reliance.
Commerce and Industry is not left out as industrialization is in top gear in the state, with the orange juice, nails, water and bread factories and breweries, already taken off and yielding profit for the state. These achievements have already generated enjoyment for the youth of the state and in the near future will boost Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).
Governor Alia’s governance style emphasizes 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-centered 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 footprints of development are already visible across the state.
The vision is still on. The laudable strides highlighted, just like the Reverend Gentleman himself has continued to reechoe at public fora, are just a tip of the ice berg. He has his eyes fixed on the goal post with a burning desire, and will deliver more in the next six years left of his administration.
The Clarion call is for Benue people to keep supporting, cooperating and praying for the progress of the God sent Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia administration
Dr. Terseer Mnzuulgha Is The Director General, Radio Benue, Makurdi
