President Bola Tinubu has hailed Benue State as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s agricultural and civic life as the state marked its 50th anniversary, pledging continued federal support to bolster security and unlock local economic opportunities.
Speaking at a thanksgiving service that concluded the Golden Jubilee celebrations at IBB Square, the President—represented by his chief of staff, Femi Gbajabiamila—said the creation of Benue on February 3, 1976, reflected a national commitment to justice and balanced development.
“Benue has grown into one of the pillars of the federation,” President Tinubu said.
He praised the state’s role in national food security and nation-building and saluting founding figures such as the late Joseph Sarwuan Tarka and former Governor Aper Aku.
President Tinubu urged residents to remain united and optimistic, and called on younger generations to drive the next phase of the state’s development.
Governor Hyacinth Alia in his remarks, described the anniversary as a “defining milestone,” acknowledging years of insecurity, communal clashes, displacement and flooding that have tested the state.
Alia said his administration was restoring confidence through fiscal discipline, expanded infrastructure, improved health and education services, agricultural support and stepped-up security across Benue’s 23 local government areas.
Seeking to broaden the state’s economic base beyond farming, Governor Alia highlighted plans to promote agro-processing, manufacturing, mining, technology and tourism.
He noted that more than 45 solid-mineral deposits have been identified in Benue—including gold, lithium, limestone, barite, kaolin, lead and zinc—and pointed to nascent oil and gas prospects.
The Governor urged investors to pursue local value addition, and said his government would continue to create an enabling environment for responsible investment.
The anniversary coincided with Governor Alia’s 60th birthday and the third year of his administration. I
n his remarks at the service, he signaled further reforms, including an executive bill to establish a Benue State Merit Awards to recognise notable indigenes, and appealed for reconciliation after political disputes.
Religious and regional figures joined the event.
Rev. Fr. Michael Melladu, executive secretary of the Benue State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, delivered a homily urging the governor to remain vigilant against forces that could destabilise his tenure. Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, represented by Deputy Governor Josephine Chundu, extended congratulations and called for greater unity among Middle Belt states.
Former Governors, traditional rulers and civic leaders offered prayers for peace and commended Governor Alia’s leadership, while calling on the administration to remain focused on security and development amid lingering challenges.
