By Lubem Gena, Makurdi
In furtherance of his commitment to deepen institutional collaboration for the growth of the marine and blue economy sector in Benue State, the Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Honourable Denis Ter Iyaghigba, has continued his partnership-building visits to key security formations in the state.
On Thursday, the Commissioner paid separate courtesy visits to the Commandant of the Nigeria Army School of Military Engineering (NASME), Major General E.I. Ekoenyong, and the Commander of the 72 Special Forces Battalion, Lt. Col. S.I Agwon, both located in the North Bank area of Makurdi.
During the visit, Hon. Iyaghigba emphasized the importance of synergy and inter-agency cooperation between his ministry and the military formations.
He noted that such collaboration is critical to enhancing security along the state’s waterways and ensuring the effective implementation of blue economy initiatives as envisioned by His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia’, Benue state governor’s administration.
The Commissioner commended the Nigerian Army for its discipline, patriotism, and dedication to national service, while expressing optimism that a stronger partnership would accelerate efforts toward environmental protection, riverine development, and economic diversification in the state.
Recall that last week, Hon. Iyaghigba visited the Benue State Commissioner of Police, where similar discussions were held on securing the state’s waterways and improving safety for local communities engaged in marine-related activities.
In all his engagements, security agencies have expressed readiness to support the Ministry’s mission of unlocking the state’s aquatic and riverine potentials for sustainable growth and job creation.
Highlighting the importance of the commissioner’s initiative, the Commandants of both NASME and the 72 Special Forces Battalion commended Hon. Iyaghigba for his proactive leadership and assured him of their cooperation in advancing the ministry’s programmes.
A major highlight of the visit was the presentation of an award of recognition to the commissioner for his outstanding contributions to the growth and development of the marine and blue economy in Benue State — a key component of Governor Alia’s development blueprint.
Hon. Iyaghigba was accompanied on the visit by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Charles Kyaave, his aides, political associates, and staff of the ministry.
The visits are part of the commissioner’s broader strategy to foster collaboration, promote peace, and ensure the sustainable management of Benue’s marine and blue economy resources.
