The Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to rebuilding the state as he outlined key achievements and ongoing efforts across critical sectors.
Governor Alia made the pledge during the Second Virtual Townhall Engagement with the Benue State diaspora community.
It was organized by the Benue State Directorate for Diaspora Linkages and Investments and hosted by its Director General, Prof. Abraham T. Girgir.
Alia appreciated participants from across the globe for dedicating time to engage with developments back home.
In the meeting that started around 10:30pm on Saturday and ended on Sunday around 2:45am, the governor started by reflecting on his nearly three years in office.
He said his administration inherited a state burdened with dysfunctional institutions, a weakened economy, and widespread insecurity affecting many local government areas.
He explained that deliberate steps have since been taken to stabilise governance and chart a new course for development.
On security, Alia disclosed that insecurity occasioned mostly by incessant attacks and killing of the natives by armed herdsmen and terrorists, which previously affected about 17 local government areas, has been significantly reduced to a few remaining hotspots.
He attributed the progress to sustained collaboration with the Federal Government and security agencies despite challenges posed by porous borders with neighbouring states and international boundaries.
He added that the deployment of technology-driven security measures is enhancing ongoing operations.
He also addressed the situation of internally displaced persons (IDPs), revealing that over 600 persons were displaced at the peak of the crisis as of December 2025.
He noted that many have begun returning voluntarily to their communities, while the government continues to ensure safe and complete resettlement.
He acknowledged support from the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, as well as contributions from institutions such as United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, Department of State Services (DSS), and Nasarawa State Government, with total interventions amounting to ₦1.27 billion.
In the education sector, Governor Alia stated that more than 22 percent of the 2026 state’s budget has been allocated to revitalisation efforts, particularly targeting primary and secondary schools that had suffered years of neglect.
He added that the healthcare system is also undergoing serious upgrades following a period of decline.
Highlighting economic initiatives, he emphasised efforts to revive key industries such as Taraku Mills, while sustaining Benue State’s leadership in soybean production.
He listed several operational factories, including juice, bread, water, and beverage production facilities, designed to stimulate local manufacturing and retain economic value within the state.
On infrastructure, the governor detailed completed and ongoing road projects across the state, including major township roads in Makurdi and Gboko, as well as inter-local government road networks aimed at improving connectivity.
He also noted federal collaboration on major infrastructure such as the Wurukum overhead bridge.
He further disclosed plans to support civil servants through a federal housing scheme, alongside the development of a “Renewed Hope Estate” in Makurdi to attract investors and diaspora participation.
Responding to questions from participants, including Mwuese Vershima, Dr. Emmanuel Ejembi, Dr. Aver Yakubu, and Rev. Ralph Okworie, the governor acknowledged the complexities of governance and differing public opinions, particularly as the 2027 political season approaches.
Alia stressed that rebuilding the state is a gradual process, likening it to the healing of “an old wound” that requires time to fully take effect.
He reaffirmed his openness to ideas and continuous learning, urging members of the diaspora to remain actively engaged in the state’s development.
He emphasised unity as a driving force for progress, noting that collective effort remains essential to building a stronger and more prosperous Benue State.
