… Hon. Jir, Dr. Yuwa assures of sustainability
….prizes won in different competitions
By Lubem Gena, Makurdi
The maiden edition of the Benue Marine Carnival 2025 on Thursday came to a colourful and historic close in Makurdi, with the Honourable Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Hon. Denis Ter Iyaghigba, describing the event as a defining milestone in Benue State’s drive toward economic diversification through its inland waterways.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Iyaghigba expressed deep gratitude to God and all stakeholders whose collective efforts ensured the success of what he described as a “bold vision turned historic reality.”
He noted that the objectives of the two-day carnival were not only achieved but exceeded.
The Commissioner paid glowing tribute to the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, for his visionary leadership and untiring support for the marine and blue economy ministry, noting that the Governor’s strong belief in the economic potential of River Benue gave the Ministry the confidence to embark on the groundbreaking project.
He further commended key stakeholders whose active participation contributed to the success of the carnival, including the Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Army, private sector players, fishermen and women, boat operators, youths, entertainers, artisans, media professionals, and the people of Benue State.
According to Iyaghigba, the impressive turnout and vibrant displays witnessed over the two days reaffirmed the state’s readiness to harness its inland waterways for job creation, tourism development, investment attraction, and environmental sustainability.
“The carnival has not only celebrated our rich aquatic heritage, but it has also sent a strong signal that Benue State is open for investment in the marine and blue economy sector,” he stated.
The Commissioner applauded the organising committee and volunteers for their professionalism and tireless efforts, stressing that their dedication transformed a bold idea into a landmark achievement.
He assured stakeholders that the carnival was only the beginning, revealing plans to grow it into a flagship national event.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Power, Renewable Energy and Transport, Hon. Jir Joseph Ter, described the carnival as timely, noting that activities of both ministries are cross-cutting, particularly in transportation, and pledged support toward sustaining the initiative.
Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Policy Coordination, Dr. Sam Yuwa, said the state had taken bold steps to boost marine and blue economy activities, stressing that River Benue holds vast potential for agriculture, aquaculture, water transportation, and marine value-chain jobs.
Highlights of the carnival included boat racing from the Golf Course waterfront to the Makurdi New Bridge, manual sand dredging contests, and beach soccer, with winners receiving cash prizes. Entertainment was provided by Eugenous The Great, The Emperor, and Lady Pesh.
The Benue Marine Carnival 2025 is widely regarded as a historic step toward positioning the state as a key player in Nigeria’s emerging blue economy.
Attached are some of the images during the day 2 of the event
