Benue Has justified The purpose Of Its creation — Tinubu
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that Benue State has fulfilled the vision behind its creation, describing it as one of the strongest pillars of Nigeria's development and the fertile heartland that continues to nourish the nation.
He said the state's Golden Jubilee was more than the marking of time, adding that it was a celebration of resilience forged through adversity, unity strengthened by diversity, and progress sustained by the industry of its people.
The Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the grand finale of the Benue at Fifty celebration held on Saturday, June 27, at the IBB Square in Makurdi.
President Tinubu observed that the creation of Benue State five decades ago reflected Nigeria's commitment to justice, inclusion and balanced development, adding that history has vindicated the decision as the state continues to make remarkable contributions to national growth through its vast agricultural potential, rich cultural heritage and enterprising people.
The President paid tribute to the state's founding fathers, especially the late Joseph Sarwuan Tarka, whose unwavering advocacy helped shape the destiny of the people. He also honoured past leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, farmers, teachers, entrepreneurs and public servants whose quiet sacrifices have become the sturdy pillars upon which modern Benue stands.
He noted that Benue has produced distinguished leaders and accomplished professionals whose footprints extend far beyond the state's borders, enriching national life and bringing honour to Nigeria.
The President commended Governor Hyacinth Alia for his efforts at strengthening governance, improving infrastructure, promoting peace and expanding opportunities for the people, describing these as essential building blocks for sustainable development.
He reaffirmed the Federal Government's commitment to partnering with the state in addressing security challenges, modernising agriculture, expanding infrastructure, creating jobs and improving access to quality healthcare and education.
Expressing confidence in Benue's future, President Tinubu said the state's abundant agricultural resources, youthful population and vibrant cultural heritage position it to become a leading destination for agro-industrial innovation, commerce, tourism, education and investment.
He urged the youth to transform their ideas into industries and their talents into enduring enterprises, reminding them that the future is not inherited but built by visionary hands willing to cultivate today's opportunities into tomorrow's prosperity.
Calling for greater unity, the President urged all sons and daughters of Benue to remain steadfast in their commitment to peace, progress and shared purpose, noting that the next chapter of the state's history would be written not by circumstance but by collective resolve.
He congratulated the government and people of Benue State on the occasion of the Golden Jubilee and wished them greater accomplishments in the years ahead.
Responding, Governor Hyacinth Alia reaffirmed his administration's resolve to build an economy that would stand firmly on the strength of its productivity rather than dependence on allocations from the Federation Account.
He called on Benue indigenes, particularly those in the diaspora, to return home and join hands in rebuilding the state, assuring them that his administration has laid a solid foundation through policies and programmes designed to unlock Benue's vast economic potential.
Governor Alia acknowledged that while insecurity, flooding and other challenges have tested the resolve of the people, they have never broken their spirit.
He paid tribute to the resilience that has become the defining character of the Benue people and commended the contributions of illustrious sons and daughters of the state to national development and security, including retired General Joseph Akaahan and other distinguished military officers, as well as the invaluable support of traditional rulers, religious leaders and development partners.
The Governor also honoured the enduring legacy of the late Aper Aku, whose visionary leadership laid the foundation upon which successive administrations have continued to build. He expressed gratitude to former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (Rtd.), for his historic role in the creation of Benue State, and to the late Joseph Sarwuan Tarka for championing the cause of Nigeria's minority groups and helping to secure a place they could proudly call their own.
Governor Alia reaffirmed his administration's commitment to building a prosperous, self-reliant and economically vibrant Benue, expressing confidence that the seeds being planted today would blossom into a future of lasting peace, inclusive growth and shared prosperity for generations to come.
