By Donatus Jirgba
In governance, transformative progress happens when competence meets capacity; when vision aligns with the right expertise and the will to execute. This truth aptly defines the new drive within Benue State’s Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy under the capable leadership of Honourable Denis Ter Iyaghigba, a man whose pedigree in the maritime and logistics sector spans over two decades of verifiable excellence across West Africa and beyond.
Appointed by Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia, whose knack for placing the right people in the right positions has become a hallmark of his administration, Hon. Iyaghigba embodies the merger of professional depth and administrative dexterity. With a career that has taken him through the operational corridors of the marine, oil and gas, and international shipping industries, he brings not only technical expertise but also an insider’s understanding of how the blue economy can redefine Benue’s development trajectory.
For a state blessed with the natural artery of the River Benue, the creation of the Ministry of Marine & Blue Economy, Benue State marks a turning point, a bold step to harness the untapped potential of inland waterways for commerce, transportation, environmental management, and community empowerment. Under Hon. Iyaghigba’s stewardship, the ministry is already rethinking policies, engaging stakeholders, and laying the groundwork for a sustainable and inclusive marine economy that will connect Benue to national and international trade ecosystems.
Hon. Iyaghigba’s ongoing strategic tour of riverine facilities and marine assets reflects not just administrative curiosity but deep professional intent — a readiness to transform POTENTIAL into PRODUCTIVITY. His approach is consultative, transparent, and data-driven, ensuring that every policy stems from firsthand insight and stakeholder engagement.
With his background as a certified maritime operations specialist, internal auditor, and member of the Institute of Logistics and Transport (MILT), the Commissioner has consistently shown that the blue economy is not an abstract idea but a viable framework for job creation, environmental preservation, and economic diversification. His technical grasp of international maritime codes, safety standards, and trade regulations gives the ministry a clear edge in aligning Benue’s inland marine system with global best practices.
Governor Alia’s foresight in establishing this ministry and appointing a technocrat of proven competence like Hon. Iyaghigba to lead it demonstrates a clear commitment to reimagining governance through innovation and professional excellence. In Hon. Iyaghigba, Benue has found not just an administrator, but a visionary strategist; not just a public servant, but a builder of sustainable systems.
As the ministry takes shape, the promise is clear: a vibrant marine economy that will power new industries, stimulate youth employment, attract investment, and position Benue as a model of inland maritime development in Nigeria.
Indeed, when competence meets capacity, transformation is not a question of “if,” but “when.” And under Honourable Denis Iyaghigba , that transformation has already begun.
Jirgba, a prolific writes contributes this piece from Abuja
