Governor Alia Calls for Enhanced Collaboration with North-Central Development Commission
Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has urged stronger cooperation between the North-Central Development Commission and the state government. This call came during a meeting held on Wednesday when the governor received the board and management of the commission, led by Cosmos Akighir and Dr Cyril Tseenyil, at the Old Banquet Hall in Makurdi.
In a statement released by the Chief Press Secretary, Kula Tersoo, Governor Alia emphasized his administration’s commitment to minimizing insecurity across the state and ensuring that displaced persons can return to their ancestral homes. He highlighted the progress made in restoring peace in several local government areas that had previously been affected by unrest.
“Already, there is relative peace in other larger parts of the state. But security is like a monster. Cut the tail, and another part of the body will spring up. Cut the hand, and you see another part of the body developing to cause havoc,” Alia said.
He further stressed the importance of ensuring that the people of Benue State can enjoy peace, which is essential for them to continue feeding the nation.
Focus on Agriculture, Employment, and Rural Infrastructure
Governor Alia also emphasized the need for collaboration in key sectors such as agriculture, employment, and rural infrastructure. He pointed out that the agriculture value chain must be prioritized to meet growing demands.
“In our budget this year, we have prioritised rural development. But because these areas were neglected for a long time, no matter how much money you budget, it will not be easy to have an immediate impact, hence the need for support from your commission,” he explained.
This focus on rural development underscores the challenges faced by communities that have suffered from years of underinvestment. The governor acknowledged that while financial resources are important, sustained support from the commission is crucial to achieving meaningful change.
Maintaining Apolitical Operations
In addition to economic and social development, Governor Alia called for the North-Central Development Commission to maintain apolitical operations. He warned that introducing politics into such a sensitive commission could undermine its primary objectives.
“This commission plays a critical role in the development of the region, and any interference from political interests could jeopardize its effectiveness,” he stated.
The governor’s remarks reflect a broader concern about the need for institutions to remain neutral and focused on their core mandates. By maintaining a non-partisan approach, the commission can better serve the people of Benue and the surrounding regions.
The Path Forward
As the state continues to work towards stability and development, the collaboration between the North-Central Development Commission and the Benue State government will be key. Governor Alia’s emphasis on unity, shared goals, and non-political operations sets a clear direction for future efforts.
With a focus on agriculture, employment, and infrastructure, the state aims to create sustainable opportunities for its citizens. At the same time, the ongoing efforts to restore peace and ensure the return of displaced persons highlight the importance of addressing both immediate and long-term challenges.
By working together, the state and the commission can build a stronger foundation for Benue’s future. The success of these initiatives will depend on continued commitment, effective planning, and the support of all stakeholders involved.