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Benue State celebrated a significant milestone on February 3, 2026, commemorating 50 years since its creation on February 3, 1976. Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia addressed the state in a statewide broadcast from the Government House in Makurdi, highlighting the occasion as the Golden Jubilee and using it to honor key figures who shaped the state’s history and legacy.
A central announcement was the decision to immortalize the late former Head of State, General Murtala Muhammed, in recognition of his pivotal role in establishing Benue State through decree under his military administration. The governor emphasized that this honor acknowledges the historic contribution of the late leader and his lasting impact on the state’s foundation and development over the decades.
In a related gesture of appreciation for prominent indigenes, Governor Alia approved the renaming of the Benue Printing and Publishing Corporation (BPPC) after the late veteran journalist, Chief Dan Agbese. The corporation will now operate as the Dan Agbese Printing and Publishing Corporation. This move pays tribute to Agbese’s contributions to journalism and public discourse in Benue and beyond.
The governor further revealed plans to name other legacy institutions after additional eminent Benue personalities, both living and deceased. Among those mentioned were the late Wantaregh Paul Unongo, Elder Isaac Shaaahu, Senator Suemo Chia, Gen. Atom Kpera, and the late Tashaku Oradi, along with others who have made notable impacts on the state.
As part of the jubilee activities, Governor Alia exercised his prerogative of mercy by granting clemency to 14 inmates serving various terms in correctional facilities across Benue State. One notable case involved Terhumba Aondona (also referred to as Terhumba Aondondona), whose sentence was reduced from 10 years to four years. The full list of beneficiaries includes Akaajime Imoter, Kongususu Terzugwe, Terngu Orshi, Ornaa Achagh, Zwa Achir, Terkimbi Amadadu, Iorpenda Christian, Aondowawaae Terlumun, Oriba John, Sughnen Terfa James, Akaahar Isaak, Ordham Thankgod, Gwayem Agba James, and Iorfa Terkimbi.
Governor Alia described these decisions as integral to the broader efforts to celebrate five decades of Benue State’s existence. He reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to preserving the state’s rich history, honoring its heroes, and building a stronger legacy for future generations. The announcements reflect a blend of historical recognition, cultural preservation, and humanitarian gestures aimed at fostering unity and progress in the state as it embarks on its next chapter.
