Alia Tells Diaspora: Benue recovering, open for investment

2026-03-22 - 18:23

By Peter Duru, Makurdi Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has assured Nigerians at home and abroad that the state is steadily recovering, emphasizing progress in security, education, healthcare, and economic revitalization. Speaking during the 2nd Virtual Town Hall with the Benue Diaspora, organized by the state’s Directorate for Diaspora Linkages and Investments, Alia praised the diaspora for remaining engaged in the state’s development. The Governor noted that he inherited “a state struggling with insecurity, economic decline, and weakened institutions,” but significant progress has been made. On security, he said violence, once affecting 17 Local Government Areas, has been reduced to a few hotspots thanks to collaboration with federal agencies and modern technology. Alia highlighted that many Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) have begun returning home, with government efforts supported by partners including the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, UBA, DSS, and Nasarawa State Government, totaling N1.27 billion. In education and healthcare, he revealed that over 22 percent of the 2026 budget is dedicated to revitalizing schools and upgrading healthcare services. On the economic front, key industries like Taraku Mills are being revived, Benue’s soybean production strengthened, and local factories supported to produce juice, bread, and beverages, creating jobs and retaining economic value locally. Alia also pointed to ongoing infrastructure projects, including road networks in Makurdi and Gboko, and federal collaborations such as the Wurukum flyover. Plans to support civil servants through a federal housing scheme and attract investors to Makurdi’s “Renewed Hope Estate” were also highlighted. Responding to questions from diaspora participants, Alia acknowledged governance challenges and differing public opinions ahead of the 2027 elections. “Rebuilding Benue is like healing an old wound—it takes time, patience, and collective effort. We are open to ideas, continuous learning, and active diaspora participation. Together, we can build a stronger and more prosperous Benue,” he said.