Former Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom
Immediate past Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom has described the 50th anniversary of the creation of Benue State as a significant milestone that calls for sober reflection on the state’s journey so far, as well as renewed commitment to its future.
A statement by the Special Adviser to the former Governor Dr. Terver Akase quoted Chief Ortom as noting that since its creation in 1976, Benue State has steadily evolved, shaped by the resilience of its people, the richness of its cultural heritage, and its strategic contribution to national development, particularly in agriculture as the Food Basket of the Nation.
He said the past five decades have presented both progress and daunting challenges and expressed satisfaction that the people of Benue have consistently demonstrated perseverance, discipline, and a deep attachment to their land, the qualities he believed, have sustained the state through difficult periods and remain critical to its continued stability and development.
Ortom said: “the journey of these 50 years has not been without trials. Our people have endured periods of insecurity, pain and loss, yet they have consistently demonstrated uncommon courage and determination to defend their ancestral heritage and uphold the sanctity of human life.
“The story of Benue is therefore not only one of struggle, but of hope, resistance against injustice, and an unyielding quest for peace and progress”.
Governor Ortom, who served as Governor between 2015 and 2023, said the experience reinforced his belief in leadership anchored on trust in God, the protection of human life, the rule of law, fairness and equity.
“As Governor of Benue State from 2015 to 2023, I had the honour of serving a people whose love for their land and commitment to justice inspired every decision we took in defence of our collective future.
“I remain immensely grateful to the people of Benue for the trust they reposed in me and for standing firm in the face of adversity”, he states.
“The 50th anniversary of the state presents an opportunity for all stakeholders – government, traditional institutions, the private sector, civil society, and every other Benue person to recommit to unity, responsible leadership, and inclusive development.
He therefore urged the people to always pray for those in authority, to enable them succeed,
Ortom, further, congratulated the Government and people of Benue State, both within Nigeria and in the diaspora, on the attainment of the golden jubilee and urged them to remain steadfast in their pursuit of peace, security, and prosperity for the state.
