Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia
By JIMMIE ADZANDE, Makurdi –
Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, the 6th democratically elected governor of Benue State, has swiftly emerged as a symbol of transformative leadership and hope for the people of the state. Since assuming office, Governor Alia has prioritized policies and initiatives aimed at addressing the state’s pressing challenges, particularly in infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare, education, and security.
One of his most significant achievements has been tackling the infrastructural deficit in the state. Governor Alia has initiated and overseen the rehabilitation and construction of key road networks, ensuring accessibility to rural communities. This development has improved the movement of goods and services, fostering economic growth and connecting underserved areas to urban centers. With many completed, some of these road infrastructure are undergoing several degrees of completion.
In agriculture, Governor Alia has demonstrated a commitment to revitalizing the state’s agrarian economy. By introducing mechanized farming techniques and facilitating access to agricultural loans for farmers, his administration has empowered local farmers to increase productivity. This focus on agriculture has not only boosted food security but has also created jobs for the teeming youth population. The investment in Durable Solution recently launched, in conjunction with relevant partners is a huge score for the people of Benue State, especially the IDPs population.
Healthcare has also witnessed a significant overhaul under his leadership. Governor Alia has spearheaded efforts to equip and upgrade primary healthcare centers across the state, ensuring that rural areas have access to quality medical services. His administration’s proactive measures in combating health emergencies and enhancing maternal and child healthcare have received widespread commendation. Not to mention the gigantic strides at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital, the Governor has already scribed his name in gold in this crucial sector.
In education, Governor Alia has prioritized the rehabilitation of schools, recruitment of qualified teachers, and prompt payment of teachers’ salaries. His administration has worked to improve learning environments, ensuring that students in both urban and rural areas have access to quality education.
Security, a major concern for Benue State due to recurring clashes and insurgency, has seen significant attention under Governor Alia. His government has fostered collaborations with federal security agencies to enhance the safety of lives and property.
Furthermore, his peace-building initiatives have strengthened communal harmony in conflict-prone areas. Peace is returning back to Benue; a major attraction for investors across the world.
Governor Alia’s administration has also been lauded for promoting transparency and accountability in governance. By introducing digital platforms for revenue collection and public expenditure tracking, his government has curbed leakages and ensured that public funds are utilized effectively. No wonder, almost two years gone, the Governor has not borrowed a dime, despite the tremendous amount of human and infrastructural developments.
Within this time in office, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia has laid the foundation for a more prosperous Benue State. His dedication to the well-being of the people, combined with a clear vision for development, positions him as a transformational leader committed to driving lasting change. As his tenure progresses, the people of Benue remain optimistic about the continued strides his administration will achieve in the quest for progress and sustainable development.
Jimmie Adzande is SSA to the Governor on Media (Cabinet Office).
