…..warns against misconduct, abuse of office
The Benue State Government has inaugurated an Inland Waterways Taskforce to strengthen safety, regulation and economic activities across waterways, River Benue corridor and wetlands in the state.
The taskforce was inaugurated on Tuesday at the Conference Hall of the Ideas Project Office, Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, Makurdi, by the Benue State Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Hon. Denis Ter Iyaghigba.
Speaking during the inauguration, Hon. Iyaghigba described the event as a major milestone in the state government’s efforts to restore order and unlock the economic potential of inland waterways.
He noted that Benue State is endowed with vast river networks and aquatic resources which serve as vital channels for transportation, fishing, agriculture, tourism and commerce.
According to the Commissioner, the waterways sector had for years operated with inadequate coordination and regulation, thereby exposing lives and property to avoidable risks.
While stating that the administration of the Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, was determined to change the narrative through structured operations and enforcement mechanisms.
“The establishment of this taskforce is not merely ceremonial. It is a practical response to the growing need for structured operations, enforcement of safety standards, environmental protection and enhanced economic productivity along our waterways,” he said.
Hon. Iyaghigba explained that the taskforce would ensure compliance with relevant laws and operational guidelines while promoting safe and lawful marine activities on waterways, wetlands and adjoining corridors.
He charged members of the committee to carry out their assignment with patriotism, discipline and professionalism, warning that the government would not tolerate extortion, harassment, abuse of office or any form of misconduct.
“I will not tolerate extortion, harassment, abuse of office or any form of misconduct. Any member found compromising the standards of this assignment will face immediate disciplinary measures,” the Commissioner emphasized.
The commissioner further assured the taskforce of the ministry’s support and pledged continued collaboration with security agencies and stakeholders to ensure safety and effective monitoring of waterways across the state.
He also disclosed that Marine Safety Marshals would soon be inaugurated to strengthen grassroots coordination and community engagement in riverine communities.
Members of the Benue State Inland Waterways Taskforce inaugurated by the commissioner are:
Mr. Charles Terfa Ikyaave, Director covering duties of the Permanent Secretary –Chairman;
Dr. Harris Dera, Technical Adviser to the Honourable Commissioner – Member;
Mrs. Nguveren Yaaya, Director of Fisheries – Member;
Benue State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) – Member;
Representative of the Nigerian Navy – Member;
Air Commodore Jacob Gbamwuam (rtd), Director General, Bureau of Benue State Homeland Security – Member;
Dr. Joseph Har, Special Adviser to the Governor on Security and Internal Affairs – Member and representative of the Benue State Command of the Marine Police – Member.
Others include: Hon. Richard Imoter Nomkpo, Chief of Staff to the Honourable Commissioner – Member;
Sir Teddy Terna Kandeor, Special Assistant to the Honourable Commissioner on Community Relations – Member;
Mr. Emmanuel Gbyebe, Administrative Officer of the Ministry – Secretary;
Mr. Lubem Gena, Head of Media, Publicity and Orientation, Office of the Honourable Commissioner – Member and Hon. Paul Bebe, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Marine and Blue Economy – Member.
The members who were inaugurated also held their inaugural meeting where issues of basic concerns were discussed.
The Director covering the duties of the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mr. Charles Terfa Ikyaave, thanked the members of the taskforce for accepting to deploy their energies, time and resources to contribute immensely to the success of the taskforce.
Signed:
Lubem Gena, FIIM
Head of Media Publicity and Orientation
Office of the Honourable Commissioner
Tuesday, 19th May, 2026
