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In a gesture of respect and continuity, the Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, FNSE, paid a New Year courtesy visit to the immediate past Governor of Benue State, Chief Samuel Ortom, at his residence in Makurdi on January 1, 2026.
Prof. Utsev began by expressing profound gratitude to Almighty God for His divine grace, uncommon love, protection, and guidance that enabled him and his family to witness the new year. He extended special thanks to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and his mentor, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Dr. George Akume, CON, for the opportunity to serve the nation in his current capacity.
Addressing his host as his former boss, the Minister explained that the visit was aimed at showing appreciation and seeking deeper partnership and synergy for the effective implementation of policies and programmes in the water and sanitation sector, ultimately for the overall good of the country.
While offering prayers for the former Governor to enjoy good health and greater wisdom to continue impacting society positively, Prof. Utsev wished Chief Ortom a prosperous New Year.
In response, Chief Samuel Ortom congratulated Prof. Utsev on the impactful projects he has been executing nationwide in the water and sanitation sector since his appointment. The former Governor called on the people of Benue State to continue praying for their leaders at all levels, irrespective of political affiliations, to enable them succeed in the task of governance.
The visit underscores the enduring professional relationship between the two leaders, with Prof. Utsev having previously served under Ortom’s administration, and highlights a spirit of bipartisanship in pursuing development goals for Benue and Nigeria at large as the new year unfolds.
