Press release
Benue Marine and Blue Economy Commissioner charges Engineers to Back Gov. Alia’s Drive to Unlock River Benue Potential
The Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy in Benue State, Hon. Denis Ter Iyaghigba, has appealed to engineers to rally behind Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia’s vision of transforming the state’s vast inland waterways into a major economic driver.
Speaking during a recent courtesy visit by members of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Benue Chapter, led by Deputy Chairman Engr. Terhemba Agber and including immediate past President Engr. Ukeyima Manger, the commissioner emphasized the critical role of engineering expertise in realizing the ministry’s ambitious goals.
Hon. Iyaghigba described the nearly 800-kilometer River Benue—Nigeria’s second-largest river, flowing from Cameroon—as a largely untapped asset with immense potential to boost the economies of Benue State and the North Central zone through fisheries, transportation, trade, and related blue economy activities.
He urged the NSE delegation to become active partners in the ministry’s work, noting that engineering disciplines are central to initiatives like dredging for year-round navigability, infrastructure development, and sustainable waterway management. “You are one of our very own,” he told the engineers, encouraging them to help drive processes that ensure the ministry’s success.
Key projects highlighted include the establishment of a modern fish market in Makurdi, the development of a river port in a strategic section of the city, and the ongoing revitalization of the Makurdi Golf Course along the River Benue corridor.
The commissioner pointed to the efficiency of water transport, citing the 45-minute journey from Makurdi to Katsina-Ala as evidence of its viability when properly harnessed.
Engr. Agber, in response, praised the appointment of an accomplished professional like Hon. Iyaghigba to lead the ministry. He advocated for comprehensive “dressing” of the River Benue—including dredging and channelization—to enable all-season transportation and enhance economic benefits.
The NSE leader proposed collaborations in services, consultancy, capacity building, and other thematic areas to support these efforts.
The call aligns with Governor Alia’s broader agenda since creating the dedicated Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in 2025.
The administration has positioned the state to contribute to Nigeria’s national blue economy push, focusing on sustainable inland waterways for job creation, diversification beyond agriculture, and regional growth.
Recent actions, such as on-the-spot assessments of the river, regulatory measures on unregistered operations, and stakeholder partnerships, underscore this commitment.
The Commissioner views engineering collaboration as essential for technical execution, from port construction to environmental safeguards.
As Benue advances these initiatives, the partnership with professional bodies like the NSE could accelerate progress toward making the River Benue a cornerstone of economic revival.
Signed:
Lubem Gena, FIIM
Head of Media, Publicity and Orientation, Office of the Honourable Commissioner,
+2348064453683
5th February, 2026
