Dr. Akutah Honored Amid Surging Calls for 2027 Governorship Bid

In the heart of Kwande Local Government Area, Benue State, an electric atmosphere gripped NKST Ikyanyon, Adikpo, on November 10, 2025, as dignitaries from across Nigeria converged to celebrate Dr. Pius Akutah Ukeyima—better known as Dr. Akutah Plus Ukeyima—for his transformative two years at the helm of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC). The event, a special thanksgiving and reception, wasn’t just a pat on the back for his national achievements; it doubled as a fervent rallying cry, with community leaders and supporters intensifying demands for the legal luminary to throw his hat into the ring for the 2027 Benue governorship race.

Dr. Akutah, the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the NSC since his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in October 2023, has become a beacon of reform in maritime administration. Drawing from his background as a barrister specializing in international criminal law and his prior role as Principal State Counsel in the Federal Ministry of Justice, Akutah has steered the NSC toward infrastructure upgrades, people-oriented policies, and strategic investments that ripple nationwide. Speakers at the event lavished praise on his leadership, crediting him with driving reforms that have injected vitality into the sector and positioned Benue as a key player in Nigeria’s export economy, thanks to its agricultural bounty.

The occasion pulsed with gratitude and vision. In his address, Dr. Akutah expressed profound thanks to God and the people of Benue, underscoring his commitment to service. He extolled the leadership of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator Dr. George Akume, whom he described as a “father and mentor” whose guidance has been instrumental in his career. Akutah urged attendees to sustain their faith in President Tinubu’s administration and its ongoing reforms, emphasizing unity and support for both the President and the SGF. “Come 2027, the entire North-Central, loyalists, political sons, and friends of the SGF across the country will give overwhelming votes for the re-election of President Bola Tinubu,” he declared, rallying the crowd behind a shared political destiny.

Yet, the undercurrent of the day was unmistakably political. Responding to a barrage of calls—from socio-cultural groups, the clergy, and Kwandede associations—for him to contest the governorship, Dr. Akutah revealed that consultations are ongoing but affirmed that the people of Kwande will play a decisive role in the next dispensation. “I have heard every call and statement made by different speakers here,” he said, acknowledging delegations urging him to contest. “While I am still considering your call, I can assure you that Kwande will take a bold shot at the governorship. Today’s celebration will be our victory dance at the Benue State Government House when we win.” His words ignited cheers, framing the thanksgiving as a symbolic victory lap for a future triumph.

Prominent figures amplified the momentum. The APC State Chairman, Comrade Austin Agada, lamented the current state of governance in Benue as marked by “leadership ineptitude and lack of administrative depth,” vowing that the APC is determined to present a credible, visionary candidate capable of aligning the state with people-oriented policies. In a poignant metaphor, Chief Yandev Ama’abi, President General of the Jemgbagh Development Association, likened Benue’s situation to “a ship that has sunk in the middle of the river,” declaring that the state urgently needs “a new ship to sail safely to shore.” He endorsed Dr. Akutah as that vessel, capable of steering toward progress.

Religious voices added spiritual weight. The officiating minister, Pastor Atim Daa, drew from 1 Chronicles 17:1-15 to compare King David’s devotion to Dr. Akutah’s passion for service and generosity, especially his consistent support for church projects. Describing him as “a man who honors God through service and thanksgiving,” the pastor predicted divine rewards for his steadfastness. Traditional rulers, including Tor Kwandende HRH Chief Ambrose Pine Lortyer and Ter Kwandende HRH Chief Timothy Ahile, attended with their spouses, underscoring the broad-based endorsement.

Goodwill messages poured in from heavyweights, including the SGF Senator George Akume, represented by Elder Simon Shango; APC State Chairman Comrade Austin Agada; Senator Emmanuel Udende, represented by Hon. Amokaha Gboughour; House of Representatives member for Kwande/Ushongo, Hon. Terseer Ugbor, represented by Dr. Manaseh Terashi; and Minister of Water Resources, Prof. Joseph Utsev, represented by Chief Michael Msuuran. Others included Lady Helen Atom, Chief Terlumun Akputu, former Senator Chief Jack Gyado represented by Prof. Lorwuese Hagher, all commending Akutah’s strides in public service, community development, and philanthropy.

The celebration concluded on a high note with prayers, songs of praise, and renewed calls from supporters and community leaders urging Dr. Akutah to heed the people’s demand and join the 2027 race. As Benue navigates economic pressures and political transitions—amid whispers of PDP’s resolve to reclaim power—these endorsements signal a groundswell of hope that Akutah’s blend of administrative prowess, cultural rootedness, and reformist zeal could chart a new course for the Food Basket of the Nation.

In a state where agriculture meets aspiration, Dr. Akutah’s story is more than personal acclaim; it’s a narrative of potential redemption. Whether he steps forward or not, one thing is clear: Kwande—and Benue—is ready to dance.