By Donald Kumun
The Benue State Government House, Makurdi, on Friday, 29th August, 2025, hosted a significant event, where the State Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, and his media team, led by the Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, showcased his achievements within his two years in office.
This unveiling of a comprehensive scorecard, was not just a routine governmental briefing; it was an event filled with logical presentation of a lasting legacy, and impactful progress, so compelling that it drew commendation from a highly influential personality in the media industry, Mr. Bayo Onanuga ,the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, who was in the State to interact with the Governor, and his media team.
His inspiring presence underscored the importance of the event and lent a credible voice to the narrative of development, currently unfolding in Benue State.
The Special Adviser, who is a veteran journalist, and a key figure in the Presidential administration of President Bola Amhed Tinubu, was on a mission to see firsthand the fruits of Governor Alia’s labor, and he was so impressed, to see these achievements.
During the briefing and presentation of the administration’s track records of achievements, Mr. Onanuga, expressed profound satisfaction with the tangible progress on the ground, insisting that the visit served as a crucial fact-finding mission, directly countering the often-malicious and unfounded claims made by political detractors, about the Governor’s administration. It was an opportunity for him where reality triumphed over rhetoric .
The presidential spokesman’s endorsement, was a stark rebuke to those who have sought to undermine the Governor’s efforts, through a campaign of misinformation, even as he emphasized on the need to disregard the reckless narrative of detractors, saying that it was a powerful validation of the governor’s true leadership for Benue people.
His words were a clear signal that the Federal Government recognizes and appreciates the genuine development taking place in Benue State. This public statement from a high-ranking official of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, effectively neutralizes the baseless criticisms by the detractors.
The achievements paraded by the Governor’s media team, were not merely abstract figures, or future promises before the spokesman to the President, but concrete, and impactful projects, that are doing well for Benue people. From massive road construction and rehabilitation, to significant strides in Agriculture, Healthcare, Education, ICT, Industrialization, humanitarian sector, land sanitation etc,the scorecard was a testament to a focused and deliberate approach to governance. It showed a government that understands the fundamental needs of its people and is working tirelessly to address them. These were the exact expressions of the Presidential Spokesman.
Governor Alia, in his remarks, graciously thanked Mr. Onanuga for taking the time to visit and witness the progress of his administration within two years in office, firsthand. His appreciation was a gesture of humility, and a recognition of the importance of the federal partnership.
Governor Alia’s confidence was palpable as he spoke about the future, assuring the presidential spokesman that the achievements so far are just a glimpse of what is to come. He pledged that his administration would deliver more legacy projects, further cementing its commitment to the state’s development.
This assurance was not an empty promise but one built on a foundation of strategic planning, and a clear vision. The governor’s statement about more legacy projects to be completed within his first term, speaks volumes about his ambition and dedication. It shows an administration that is not resting on its oars, but is constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible, driven by a desire to leave a lasting positive impact on the state.
A key factor highlighted by Governor Alia as a catalyst for these achievements, is the robust and cordial relationship between the Benue State and Federal Governments. This synergy has proven to be a significant advantage, unlocking opportunities, and resources that might otherwise have been inaccessible. It’s a clear example of how inter-governmental collaboration can accelerate development, and bring about meaningful change for the populace.
This positive relationship has transformed the dynamics of governance in the state. By aligning with the federal agenda for progress, the Benue State Government, has been able to leverage support and expertise, leading to a more efficient and impactful implementation of its policies, and projects. It is a strategic partnership that prioritizes the welfare of the people above every other consideration.
Governor Alia and his administration has demonstrated its capacity for effective leadership, and its unwavering commitment to progress. Rallying around the Governor, is not just a call for political support, but a collective push for the continued delivery of the dividends of democracy that have already begun to transform the state, as ascertained by the Presidential Spokesman, Mr Bayo Onanuga.
Donald Kumun, Principal Special Assistant to the Benue State Governor on Print Media.
Photo Credits: Lanshima Ephraim, GHM.
