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BENUE GOVT., RENEWED HOPE INITIATIVE DEEPENS PUSH FOR FOOD SECURITY, TACKLES MALNUTRITION IN IDP CAMPS AS COMMISSIONER RALLIES SUPPORT FOR FEMALE FOOD PROCESSORS

By Orseer Mnzughulga, Makurdi.

The Benue State Government has intensified efforts to boost food security and stimulate economic growth through the empowerment of female food processors, with a strong call for multi-sectoral collaboration to addressing malnutrition among internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the state.

This formed the crux of deliberations at a one-day stakeholders’ engagement workshop with female food processors held at the Conference Hall of the Ministry of Health, Makurdi, on April 15, 2026. The event, convened by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare in collaboration with the Renewed Hope Initiative, brought together key actors from government, development agencies, financial institutions, and women-led enterprises.

Delivering her keynote address, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Hon. Mrs. Theresa Odachi Ikwue, underscored the strategic importance of the workshop, describing it as more than a routine gathering but "a deliberate platform for dialogue, collaboration, and empowerment."
She said, "Today’s gathering is not just an event it is a strategic platform for dialogue, collaboration, and empowerment. The theme, ‘Food Processing: A Pathway to Food Security and Economic Development,’ is both timely and critical, especially in a state like ours that is widely regarded as the Food Basket of the Nation."

The Commissioner highlighted the indispensable role of women in agriculture and food systems, noting that they remain at the forefront of production, processing, preservation, and distribution. Despite their contributions, she lamented that many female food processors continue to face systemic barriers.

According to her, "Women play a central role in agriculture and food systems… however, despite their immense contributions, many female food processors still face significant challenges, including limited access to modern processing technologies, inadequate financing, poor market linkages, and insufficient capacity-building opportunities."

Hon. Ikwue stressed that addressing these challenges requires deliberate and coordinated efforts from all stakeholders, including government institutions, private sector players, and development partners.

"This workshop provides us with an opportunity to collectively address these challenges. It is a call to action for all stakeholders government agencies, development partners, financial institutions, and the private sector to work together in creating an enabling environment where women can thrive," she stated.

Reaffirming the commitment of the state government, the Commissioner emphasized that empowering women remains central to sustainable development.

She noted, "As a Ministry, we remain committed to policies and programmes that empower women economically and socially. We recognize that when women are empowered, families are strengthened, communities are transformed, and economies grow. Investing in female food processors is not just a social responsibility; it is a smart economic strategy."

She further assured participants that the ministry would continue to support initiatives that promote skill acquisition, access to credit, and market expansion for women across the state.

Encouraging participants to maximize the opportunity, Ikwue urged the women to actively engage and translate knowledge gained into tangible outcomes.

Addressing the humanitarian situation in the state, Ikwue called on female food processors to brainstorm on innovative ways of processing nutritious foods that can help combat malnutrition in IDP camps, noting that the challenge continues to affect a significant number of displaced persons.

“We must look inward and develop practical solutions through food processing to support our brothers and sisters in IDP camps who are facing malnutrition. This is both a moral duty and a critical intervention,” she added.

"Engage actively, share your experiences, learn new techniques, and build networks that will enhance your businesses. The knowledge and connections you gain here should translate into improved productivity, better quality products, and increased income," she added.

Adding the voice of industry practitioners, the Chief Executive Officer of DIET HOUSE Nutritional Products & Services Nigeria Limited, Nguveren Benedicta Ukange, who spoke on behalf of the female food processors, outlined key challenges confronting operators in the sector. She identified limited access to modern processing equipment, inadequate funding, high cost of raw materials, poor storage and preservation facilities, weak market linkages, and lack of standardisation and certification support as major impediments to growth.

Ukange called on government and relevant stakeholders to provide targeted support in the form of accessible credit facilities, modern processing tools, training in food safety and packaging, and improved access to markets.
“We are committed to contributing to food security and economic development, but we need the right support systems to scale our operations, meet quality standards, and compete effectively,” she said.

Also speaking at the event, the Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Initiative in Benue State, Hon. Scholastica Ben-Sor, described food processing as a critical link between agricultural abundance and sustainable economic development.

She emphasized that while Benue enjoys a reputation as a leading agricultural state, greater attention must be paid to processing, preservation, packaging, and market access to fully harness its potential.

"Food processing is the bridge between abundance and sustainability. It reduces post-harvest losses, enhances value addition, creates jobs, and opens doors to local and international markets," she said.

Hon. Ben-Sor, who also serves as Adviser to the Governor on Women Affairs, reiterated the initiative’s commitment to empowering women through capacity building, access to resources, and strategic partnerships.

She, however, acknowledged persistent challenges such as inadequate equipment, limited funding, and poor storage infrastructure, calling for sustained collaboration to address these constraints.
Participants at the workshop engaged in robust discussions, sharing experiences and proposing practical solutions aimed at strengthening the food processing sector in the state.

The workshop concluded with a collective resolve among stakeholders to translate deliberations into actionable strategies that would enhance productivity, improve livelihoods, and ensure sustainable food security in Benue State.

NORTHERN GOVERNORS REAFFIRM SUPPORT FOR TINUBU, INTENSIFY PUSH FOR SECURITY AND REGIONAL DEV.

Abuja, March 31, 2026

Governors of the nineteen northern states on Monday met at the Gombe State Governor’s Lodge in Asokoro, Abuja, under the platform of the Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF), where they deliberated on key issues affecting the region, particularly security, institutional strengthening, and economic development.

At the end of the meeting, the forum issued a communiqué reaffirming its commitment to supporting the Federal Government under the leadership of Bola Ahmed Tinubu in addressing security challenges across the country.

"The Forum reaffirms its steadfast commitment to continuing its support for the Federal Government, under the able leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in effectively countering evolving security threats", the communique reads in part.

The governors emphasised their determination to work collectively to ensure lasting peace and stability in the North and Nigeria as a whole.

The forum also called on Nigerians to continue supporting the President, the armed forces, and other security agencies in their ongoing efforts to safeguard the nation.

According to the communiqué signed by the Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, the governors commended the "united efforts of member states in tackling security and developmental challenges", noting that the collaborative actions are already yielding positive results. They pledged to sustain and strengthen these efforts to consolidate the progress recorded so far.

The meeting further applauded ongoing steps aimed at institutional strengthening and restructuring within the forum. The governors expressed readiness to place the NSGF on a stronger footing to enhance coordination, ensure continuity, and improve the capacity of northern states for strategic engagement and effective policy implementation.

In a move aimed at boosting economic growth in the region, the forum agreed to engage relevant consultants to develop modalities for identifying and optimising taxable revenue opportunities available to the northern states.

The governors also resolved to sustain engagement with the Presidential Implementation Committee on Technology Transfer regarding the establishment of the New Nigeria Energy Company (NNEC), a key component of the Sun Africa Project expected to advance energy development in the country.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Governor of Benue State, Barr. Dr. Sam Ode, mni, represented the Executive Governor of the state, His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, at the meeting. The Secretary to the Benue State Government, Deaconess Mrs. Selumun Deborah Aber, Esq., was also in attendance.

The meeting underscored the renewed commitment of northern governors to deepen collaboration in addressing the region’s challenges while promoting sustainable development and improved governance for the benefit of their people.

Ior Ikyereve
Deputy Chief Press Secretary,
Office of the Deputy Governor, Benue State.

BENUE STATE GOVERNMENT LAUNCHES DIGITAL PLATFORMS, WOMEN EMPOWERMENT, LITERACY PROGRAMMES

…Alia’s administration deepens inclusive growth, targets 690,000 women across 23 LGAs–Women Affairs Commissioner

The Benue State Government has officially launched a comprehensive digital platform, alongside women agricultural empowerment and adult mass literacy programmes, in a strategic move to strengthen inclusive governance, transparency, and socio-economic development across the state.

The initiative, unveiled on Monday, March 30, 2026, at the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA) Hall in Makurdi by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare, is widely regarded as a major milestone under the administration of Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Hon. Mrs. Theresa Odachi Ikwue, described the launch as a defining moment for the Ministry and the women of Benue State, noting that the integration of technology into governance would significantly enhance service delivery and public engagement.

She disclosed that the Ministry has deployed two key digital platforms—the Official Ministry Website

https://womenaffairs.benuestate.gov.ng

and the Ministry Web Portal

https://mwaswportal.benuestate.gov.ng to facilitate seamless access to government services and improve communication between citizens and the state.

According to her, "Through these platforms, citizens can report issues, access vital information, and benefit from government interventions with ease. It is a clear demonstration of our commitment to transparency, accountability, and innovation in governance."

Hon. Ikwue emphasized that the initiative aligns strongly with Governor Alia’s Seven Pillars of Development, particularly in advancing digital innovation, economic empowerment, and inclusive growth.

"This initiative is in line with the vision of His Excellency, whose development agenda prioritizes inclusive governance and the empowerment of all citizens, especially women," she stated.

Expanding on the broader national relevance of the programme, the Commissioner noted that the initiative also complements federal efforts aimed at economic revitalization and social inclusion.

"This initiative also resonates strongly with the empowerment agenda of His Excellency, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly his commitment to economic growth and agricultural development. It also aligns with the vision of Her Excellency, the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and the Benue State Coordinator of Renewed Hope Initiative, Hon. Scholastica Ben-Sor, whose programmes continue to champion the advancement and welfare of women across the nation and Benue in particular," Hon. Ikwue stated.

On agricultural empowerment, the Commissioner explained that the focus on women farmers was deliberate, given their central role in food production, family sustenance, and rural economic stability.

"By exposing women to modern farming techniques, improved facilities, and financial support, we aim to enhance productivity, improve livelihoods, and strengthen the economy of our dear state," she said.

She further revealed that the scope of the programme is expansive and transformative, targeting at least 30,000 women in each of the 23 local government areas of the state, bringing the total number of beneficiaries to no fewer than 690,000 women.

According to her, this large-scale intervention is expected to have far-reaching socio-economic impacts across the state.

"These women will transform our local government areas and the state at large. Their families will experience improved living standards, and insecurity will be drastically reduced, as empowered mothers will be better positioned to support and guide their children away from crime and criminality," she added.

On education, Hon. Ikwue highlighted the importance of the adult mass literacy programme, particularly for market women, rural dwellers, and underserved populations.

"Education remains a powerful tool for transformation. This programme will enable women to read, write, manage simple business records, and connect with opportunities in today’s digital world," she noted.

The Commissioner expressed deep appreciation to Governor Alia for his unwavering support for women-focused initiatives, revealing that the administration had committed significant financial resources toward advancing women’s development.

"A few months ago, His Excellency graciously approved and paid N450 million as counterpart funding for the Nigeria for Women Project Scale-Up. This intervention will empower at least 30,000 women in each of the 23 Local government areas in Benue State," she disclosed.

Also speaking at the event, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Benue Digital Infrastructure Company Plc (BDIC), Gbande Hembaor Terwase, represented by the Group Head, System Support and Data Management, Mr. Cephas Abur, described the project as a transformative governance tool designed to strengthen social protection systems.

He explained that the digital solution includes a modern website and a secure Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) and Violence Against Children (VAC) reporting portal.

"This is not just an ICT project; it is a transformative governance tool designed to protect lives and empower the most vulnerable," he said.

According to him, the platform enables real-time reporting, coordinated response mechanisms, and secure data management while safeguarding the identity and dignity of survivors.

He added that the system will also facilitate the digital management of over 552 auxiliary social workers and coordinate 46 child protection officers across the 23 local government areas.
"This is the foundation of a modern, responsive, and accountable social protection system in Benue State," he stated.

The BDIC representative further noted that the initiative positions Benue as a pacesetter in digital governance and social innovation in Nigeria.

"Benue State is setting the pace as a forward-thinking state leveraging ICT for real societal impact," he added.

Stakeholders at the event commended Governor Alia for what they described as a bold, visionary, and people-oriented initiative, noting that the integration of digital innovation, agriculture, and education represents a holistic and sustainable approach to development.

The programmes are expected to evolve into a fully integrated social protection ecosystem, with future plans including mobile-enabled tools, inter-agency integration, and advanced data analytics to support evidence-based policy formulation.

The event attracted members of the State Executive Council, development partners, civil society organisations, traditional leaders, and representatives of the media, underscoring the broad support for the administration’s drive toward inclusive growth and sustainable development.


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BENUE SPEAKER'S WIFE, SUSTAINS FREE MEDICAL OUTREACH IN MAKURDI, PRIORITISES CONSTITUENTS WELL-BEING

By Lancelot Ordedoo Simon Msughter

The wife of the Speaker, Benue State House of Assembly, Mrs. Victoria Ngodoo Iorhegon Alfred, on Friday continued her humanitarian outreach with a free medical programme for residents of North-Bank in Makurdi, reaffirming her commitment to improving the health and well-being of people in her husband’s constituency.

The outreach, organised under the auspices of the Msoo-Iyuana-Triple-M Foundation, founded by Mrs. Berger Alfred, was held at Alhaji Jidda Street, Fadan Sarki Alhaji Baba Yusuf area, adjacent to Tanimu Foundation in North-Bank.

Tagged “Beat Malaria and More,” the medical initiative provides free screening, treatment and health counselling for common ailments affecting residents, including malaria, typhoid fever, HIV/AIDS, syphilis, gonorrhoea, hypertension, anaemia and other infectious and non-communicable diseases.

Speaking during the exercise, Mrs. Berger Alfred, who also serves as President of the Legislators’ Wives Association,LEWA, said the programme was designed to improve access to basic healthcare services for vulnerable members of society, particularly women, children and orphans.

She noted that her foundation remains committed to humanitarian service and community health, adding that the initiative also complements the developmental and people-oriented efforts of her husband, the Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Aondoaver Berger Alfred Emberga, MNIQS, RQS, well as the administration of the Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Iormem Alia.

According to her, the well-being of the constituents remains a top priority, stressing that improved access to healthcare is vital to building a healthier and more productive society.

Earlier, the nurse in charge of the programme, Mrs. Mary Akor, commended the Speaker’s wife for the initiative, describing it as a laudable intervention that would help reduce the prevalence of infectious diseases within the community.

She encouraged Mrs. Berger Alfred to sustain the humanitarian gesture, noting that such selfless services would continue to attract divine rewards.

Some beneficiaries of the programme, including Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Makurdi, Alhaji Abubakar Dankeji; APC Ward Chairman of North-Bank Ward II, Hon. Danladi Lare ; and a Legislative Aide to the Speaker, Mallam Almaliky Muhammad Aliyu , also praised the initiative.

They described the outreach as timely and impactful, noting that it had helped ease the financial burden many residents face in accessing medical care.

The outreach witnessed a large turnout of beneficiaries, many of whom expressed appreciation to the Speaker's wife for the intervention and urged her to sustain the programme.

A TESTAMENT TO LEADERSHIP: GOV. ALIA'S SUCCESS AT THE APC STATE CONGRESS

Saturday, March 7, 2025

With the state Congress of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue now over, having recorded unprecedented success, it is imperative to acknowledge the pragmatic political leadership of Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia.

The successful ex*****on of the Congress has proven, even to doubting Thomases that strong leadership, especially from a relatively new entrant into the political arena, can yield extraordinary results.

Those who have played politics and political watchers alike are not oblivious of the fact that it is not an easy task to ensure a seamless organisation and ex*****on of a political event of this nature.

However, right from the lead-up to the Congress, there was a remarkable display of unity and commitment among party members. Starting with the process of electing delegates and adopting consensus for the election of state working committee officials, the atmosphere was charged with optimism.

Interestingly, both the Congress screening committee and the state Congress appeal committee sent to the state by the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party for the exercise publicly reported an unprecedented absence of protests or petitions. This alone marked a striking contrast to the often-tumultuous nature of political exercises, especially those that have to do with elections or nominations.

The peaceful atmosphere that heralded the exercise not only highlighted the respect and confidence delegates and party faithful held in Governor Alia's leadership but also served as a reminder that change can come with the right guidance.

Like the leader of the elders forum of the APC in the state, Sen. Barnabas Gemade publicly stated in his goodwill message during the state Congress at IBB Square, critics who hitherto doubted Alia’s political prowess are now left to reevaluate their perspectives.

It is not a hidden fact that, on his ascension to leadership in the state, and perhaps coming from the pulpit, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia was regarded by many, especially seasoned politicians as a greenhorn who cannot pull himself up in the political landscape of Benue State, but the Reverend Gentleman Governor has swiftly dispelled these notions.

As a reverend gentleman, he has proactively taken moves that led him to a point where he effectively harmonised the dual responsibilities of governance and politics, deftly navigating the complexities of both realms. His prioritisation of transparency, inclusivity, and community involvement has drawn praise from party members and the public alike.

Interestingly, Governor Alia’s astute leadership style is grounded in the belief that listening to the constituents and addressing their needs is not just instructive, but essential for successful governance.

His proactive measures in engaging with stakeholders and fostering a collaborative atmosphere have led to greater trust and respect within the party.

The concluded state Congress, marked by its lack of discord, acrimony and the swift adoption of key leadership roles, is a clear testament to his ability to unite and motivate, depicting clearly that a visionary approach doesn't merely end with party politics; it extends to the broader governance of Benue State.

Governor Alia’s commitment to tackling insecurity, improving infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, the economy, and education reflects his understanding of the multifaceted challenges facing the state.

He recognises that the role of a leader extends beyond mere political manoeuvring; it involves enacting policies and initiatives that foster growth and development for all citizens.

As the dust settles from the successful APC Congress, Governor Hyacinth Alia stands as a beacon of hope and exemplary leadership.

His ability to neutralise initial scepticism and deliver tangible outcomes reinforces the belief that effective governance can thrive through collaboration, respect, and a dedicated pursuit of progress.

With Alia at the helm, the people of Benue State can look forward to a promising future, built on the foundations of unity and shared aspirations.

Sir Tersoo Kula, mnipr,
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Benue State.
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APC STATE CONGRESS APPEAL COMMITTEE AFFIRMS PEACEFUL CONDUCT OF BENUE CONGRESS

The State Congress Appeal Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has today, formally affirmed the peaceful and orderly conduct of the party’s State Congress in Benue State.

The Committee, chaired by Dr. Mustapha Lawal Malumfashi, confirmed that it received no petitions or appeals from aspirants or party members concerning the outcome of the Congress, thereby validating the credibility and transparency of the exercise, stating that the elections were conducted in line with party guidelines and that the elected officials were duly inaugurated.

They commended the Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, as well as party leaders, stakeholders, and elders for fostering an atmosphere of unity and cooperation that ensured a smooth process.

The State Congress Appeal Committee congratulated the newly elected State Executive Committee led by Chief Dr. Benjamin Omale and urged the leadership to work collaboratively to strengthen grassroots mobilization ahead of future electoral engagements.

Responding, Chief Dr. Omale expressed appreciation to the Appeal Committee for its diligence and pledged that the new Executive Committee would work assiduously to consolidate party unity and advance the collective interests of the APC in Benue State.

Dr. Omale also expressed appreciation to the APC National Working Committee, Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia, party stakeholders, elders, and members for the confidence reposed in the new leadership, assuring that the Executive Committee would take the party to greater heights.

Hon. Benedict Yawe,
State Publicity Secretary
APC Benue State
4th March, 2026.

BENUE 2027: ABA INTENSIFIES GRASSROOTS MOBILISATION, LAUNCHES ADC E-REGISTRATION DRIVE IN OGBADIBO

A governorship aspirant of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Benue State, Engr. Andrew Aba, has intensified grassroots political mobilisation in Ogbadibo Local Government Area with the electronic registration of party members and a renewed campaign for voter participation ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Aba disclosed this on Thursday during a visit to Owukpa and Oba districts in Ogbadibo LGA, where he met with party members and community stakeholders as part of his ongoing consultations across the state.

The governorship hopeful said the visit was undertaken for two key purposes: to facilitate the electronic registration of ADC members and to sensitise residents on the need to participate actively in voter registration exercises.

According to him, the introduction of electronic party registration under Nigeria’s electoral framework makes it mandatory for political parties to digitally capture their members, a process he said is essential for strengthening party structures ahead of future elections.
He noted that the e-registration exercise would enable members obtain their official party membership cards while ensuring that the party complies with regulatory guidelines set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Aba stressed that completing the electronic registration process within the stipulated period is critical for the party as it prepares for its primaries and the wider electoral process.
He explained that the mobilisation drive was particularly significant in Ogbadibo, which he described as one of the strongest political bases of the ADC in Benue State.

The aspirant recalled that records from the party indicated that Ogbadibo had the highest number of manually registered ADC members in the state.

He revealed that as of October last year, out of more than 500,000 registered members of the party across Benue State, about 56,000 were from Ogbadibo Local Government Area alone.
“This clearly shows that Ogbadibo remains a major pillar of the ADC in Benue State. It is therefore important that all members who were previously registered manually ensure that their details are properly captured in the electronic system,” he said.

Beyond party registration, Aba said the visit also provided an opportunity to address the issue of voter apathy, particularly in the Benue South Senatorial District.

He expressed concern that low voter registration figures in the district have historically affected its political visibility and influence within the state.

According to him, demographic and population projections used in governance and political representation often rely heavily on voter registration statistics.

He noted that the comparatively low registration numbers in Benue South have contributed to perceptions that the district constitutes a minority within the state.

Aba emphasised that increasing voter registration across the district would strengthen its voice in the democratic process and improve its standing in population-based indices.

He therefore called on residents of the zone to take advantage of voter registration opportunities to ensure they are fully represented in future elections.

“Increasing voter participation is not just about politics; it is about ensuring that our people are counted and that our collective interests are adequately represented,” he said.

The governorship aspirant further stated that the ADC would continue its grassroots engagement across communities in Benue State as part of efforts to build a broad political movement ahead of the 2027 polls.

He encouraged party supporters and members of the public who share the vision of political change to join the ADC by completing their registration through the party’s official online platform.

Aba added that the mobilisation campaign would continue across various communities in Benue South and other parts of the state as the party strengthens its structures and prepares for the forthcoming electoral cycle.