Governor Alia’s Evening of Fellowship, a Masterstroke in Leadership and Unity

On Friday, October 10, 2025, the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, hosted a remarkable cross-section of political leaders, friends, and colleagues at the New Banquet Hall of the Government House, Makurdi, for an “Evening of Fellowship and Dialogue.” This event transcended the typical political gathering, emerging as a strategic move in leadership consolidation, political strategy, and bridge-building.

Held in a relaxed yet reflective atmosphere, the evening served multiple purposes. It celebrated progress, reawakened a shared commitment to Benue’s development, and demonstrated that politics need not always be a battleground. Instead, it can be a platform for collaboration, learning, and collective growth. Governor Alia’s initiative has clearly showcased his understanding of the power of dialogue, a rare quality in contemporary Nigerian politics where ideological differences often breed hostility.

The event was a well-timed political and social engagement designed to consolidate goodwill, neutralize opposition hostility, and prepare the ground for sustained unity and cooperation. Alia’s gesture stood out as both symbolic and transformative, inviting political gladiators from diverse persuasions—including those who once doubted his capacity to govern or his administrative and political competence. This act of courage and confidence sent a clear message: governance is bigger than partisanship, and his focus remains the good of Benue State.

Alia’s calm yet firm leadership style, blended with his priestly humility, created a disarming environment where political egos were lowered, and sincerity of purpose prevailed. The diverse attendance, including figures like Dr. Paul Orhi and opposition members from both state and national assemblies, depicted the diversity of Benue and fostered forward-looking, inclusive discussions. This gathering reinforced the idea that development thrives better in unity than in discord.

The Governor’s approach has projected the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State as an inclusive and performance-driven party. By hosting opposition figures in an atmosphere of fellowship, Alia has subtly repositioned the APC as a party of development and dialogue rather than division. This strategy strengthens the party’s grassroots acceptance and could yield long-term electoral benefits as the next election cycle approaches. Under Alia’s leadership, the APC now has a unifying symbol, with his performance speaking for the party even in opposition strongholds.

For the state itself, the event represented a new dawn of political maturity. It validated the growing political stature and acceptance of the Governor across divides, with public acknowledgment of opposition figures underscoring his developmental strides. Citizens watching from afar now see a leader who listens, welcomes differing opinions, and remains focused on service—a testament to his credibility built in just two years in office.

The encomium poured on the Reverend Gentleman about his massive infrastructural projects—achieved without resorting to loans—reinforces his prudence, discipline, and result-oriented governance. It demonstrates that the impacts of his administration are visible and tangible enough to win the admiration of even his avowed critics. Furthermore, Alia used the platform to consolidate his moral and political authority, showing he is not only spiritually grounded but also politically astute.

Once dismissed as a “political novice,” this event was a profound statement of growth and learning. Indeed, one could say that Alia is learning fast not through textbook politics, but through a people-centered, performance-driven approach that is winning hearts and reshaping narratives. The event turned out to be equally valuable to the ruling APC in Benue State, especially in a political climate where party image often suffers from internal wrangling. Alia’s approach has projected the party as a beacon of hope, with his developmental strides and evidence in governance speaking volumes.

In summary, Governor Alia’s Evening of Fellowship and Political Maturity in Benue is a masterstroke that redefines leadership. By focusing on infrastructure, transparency, and partnership, he is gradually redefining the leadership ethos of the state, offering a model of governance that prioritizes service to humanity over party supremacy. As Benue people, long disturbed by political bickering and underdevelopment, witness this transformation, they can look forward to a future shaped by unity and progress.