History made in Benue state
By Erdoo Mongol, Ph. D
For the first time in the 50 years of Benue State’s existence, members of the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society gathered on Benue soil, not just to meet, but to ignite a movement.
What began as a simple convening has now become a defining moment in the evolution of the State’s mining and geosciences sector.
On Thursday March 19, nearly 40 professionals, from academia, government, regulatory agencies, and industry, traveled from across Nigeria including Lagos, Abuja, Plateau, Kebbi, Oyo, and Nasarawa to be part of this historic convergence in Makurdi.
This was more than a meeting.
It was:
• A convergence of expertise
• A unification of voices
• A bold step toward shaping the future of mining in Benue State.
Why This Matters
For too long, Benue’s vast mineral potential has remained under-coordinated and under-leveraged.
But today, a new narrative has begun.
A community of professionals has risen with a shared commitment to:
• Support policy direction
• Strengthen technical input into governance
• Complement government efforts
• Ensure the sector works for the common man
Key Highlights from the Meeting
We were honored by our Guest of Honour, Engr. Pst. Rex Hegen Aii, who delivered a thought-provoking address titled:
“The importance of strong professional chapters in NMGS: Building a vibrant and impactful NMGS chapter in Benue State.”
We also received an insightful orientation on the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society, delivered by Dr. Tersoo Aga, then CPC Chairman and now Chairman of the proposed NMGS Makurdi Chapter, who provided clarity on the Society’s vision, structure, and the strategic role the Chapter will play in advancing professional excellence and sector development in Benue State.
Key Milestones Achieved
– The chapter was formally named: NMGS Makurdi Chapter
– The chapter will be domiciled at the Benue Geo-Mining Company Ltd
– Pioneer leadership was elected to drive the establishment process
Pioneer EXCO
• Chairman: Dr. Tersoo Aga
• Vice Chairman: Dr. Erdoo Mongol
• Secretary: Dr. Hilary Jika
• Treasurer: Ms. Miranda Uye
• Financial Secretary: Mr. Emmanuel Ordams
• Welfare Secretary: Engr. Emma A. Atov
• PRO: Mr. Anslem Nege
I am deeply honored by the commendation and collective trust shown to me as the Host/Convener of this historic gathering.
But this is not about one person.
It is about a shared vision, to build a strong professional institution that will outlive us all and serve generations to come.
What This Means for the Future
This is the beginning of:
• A stronger professional voice in the mining sector
• Evidence-based policy engagement
• Structured collaboration across institutions
• A new era of responsible and strategic resource development in Benue State
From conversation… to coordination… to transformation.
Benue is rising, and this time, it is powered by knowledge, collaboration, and purpose.
