Governor Hyacinth Alia, who assumed office in 2023, is widely regarded as a transformative leader for Benue State, fostering development, peace, and social welfare across multiple sectors.

Key Achievements:

1. Agriculture and Food Security:

• Benue, the “Food Basket of the Nation,” has benefited from policies supporting farmers with modern equipment, tractors (25–95hp), combine harvesters, threshers, planters, and yam mounders.
• These initiatives boost local food supply, increase farmers’ income, and generate employment.

2. Infrastructure Development:

• Extensive rehabilitation and construction of primary schools, roads linking rural communities, and urban infrastructure in Makurdi.
• Major inner-city roads, drainage systems, and streetlights have improved mobility, security, and flood control.
• Public utilities and social facilities, including healthcare centers and markets, have been upgraded.

3. Healthcare and Utilities:

• Electrification of remote villages with solar power.
• Expanded and newly equipped hospitals and primary healthcare centers, improving access and reducing mortality rates.

4. Peacebuilding and Security:

• Collaborative efforts with security agencies, local leaders, and community policing initiatives have promoted peace and coexistence in a historically volatile state.

5. Youth Empowerment and Education:

• Scholarships, vocational training, ICT programs, and agricultural skills initiatives for thousands of youths.
• Over 900 youths trained in tractor assembly and mechanization equipment, enhancing self-reliance.

6. Industrialization and Economic Growth:

• Development of industries, including orange juice, nails, water, bread factories, and breweries, creating jobs and boosting Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).

7. Good Governance:

• Emphasis on transparency, accountability, and stakeholder engagement.
• Restored dignity in the civil service and strengthened democratic processes through inclusive governance.

Conclusion:

Governor Alia’s administration has positively impacted agriculture, infrastructure, healthcare, security, youth empowerment, and governance, making his leadership a “God-sent blessing” for Benue State. His pragmatic policies have already delivered visible progress, with promises of more in the remaining six years of his tenure.