The Benue State Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Honourable Denis Ter Iyaghigba, has called on members of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Benue State branch, to fully support Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia’s administration in its determined effort to unlock the state’s enormous maritime and blue economy potentials.
Hon. Iyaghigba made the appeal on Monday, October 6, 2025, while hosting the executive members of the union, led by their chairman, Ibrahim Sule, during a familiarisation visit to his office in Makurdi.
The commissioner described the establishment of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy as a turning point in the state’s economic history, noting that Benue is witnessing a transformation that has never happened since its creation. He expressed optimism that the ministry, with sustained support from stakeholders, could contribute up to 16 percent of the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).
Iyaghigba emphasized that one of his major priorities is to enhance aquaculture and other marine-related ventures that will add significant value to the state’s economy. According to him, a well-coordinated blue economy sector will create jobs, empower local communities, and open new frontiers of prosperity for Benue people.
He urged the union to collaborate with the ministry in implementing reforms aimed at phasing out traditional boating practices, in line with federal government directives, and to promote safer, modern maritime operations. The commissioner further revealed that life jacket regulations would soon be enforced across the state’s waterways to ensure the safety of passengers and workers.
Highlighting government’s long-term plans, Iyaghigba announced that the state intends to build jetties and other maritime infrastructure to support marine trade, transportation, and fishing activities.
He assured the workers that the Alia administration remains committed to creating an enabling environment for sustainable livelihoods in the sector.
In his remarks, the Secretary General of the union, Mr. Tyohemba Nicodemus, expressed deep appreciation for the commissioner’s warm reception and pledged the union’s unwavering support to the ministry’s initiatives. He added that the union would soon present a detailed list of their challenges to the ministry for consideration and redress.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Charles Ikyaave, commended the union for the visit and urged them to maintain close collaboration with the ministry to achieve the collective goal of growing Benue’s blue economy to its fullest potential.
Signed:
Lubem Gena
Head of Media, Publicity and Orientation
Office of the Honourable Commissioner
Benue state Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy
Makurdi
