Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia has outlined key achievements and ongoing projects in Apa and Agatu during a statewide Town Hall Meeting held in the Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency.
The engagement brought together traditional rulers, religious leaders, political leaders, community leaders, government officials and other stakeholders. The Governor described the meeting as an opportunity to listen to the people, account for the administration’s stewardship and reaffirm its commitment to inclusive and balanced development.
Among the interventions highlighted was the construction of the 43.5km Obagaji–Okokolo–Agagbe Road, which connects Agatu and Gwer West and improves access for communities and agricultural activities. The administration also pointed to continued investment in rural infrastructure to enhance connectivity and the movement of people and farm produce.
In education, classrooms have been reconstructed and renovated at Methodist Primary School, Ogbalu, and RCM Primary School, Oweto, both in Agatu, as well as at Islamiya Primary School, Alifeti, and RCM Primary School, Ekla-Oba, in Apa, with furniture provided in each case.
Primary healthcare facilities are being revitalised, with interventions at PHC Enungba, PHC Ogbaulu and PHC Usha in Agatu, and PHC Iga Opaya, PHC Otakpa and PHC Igoro in Apa. Roof-top rainwater harvesting systems have also been provided across 11 locations in Apa Local Government Area.
The Governor announced the approval for the re-engagement of Local Government Council staff who were disengaged in 2011, following a screening exercise. He further requested the names of four persons each from Apa and Agatu LGAs for immediate engagement in the state government.
On industrialisation, the administration stated that it has established over five factories and is taking steps to revive existing industries. These include the revival of the Igumale Cement Factory, where technical experts are assessing the facility; the ongoing test-running of Taraku Mills; the development of the Food Basket Brewery; and the establishment of fruit juice and concentrate factories alongside other agro-processing investments. The Governor said these projects would create jobs, stimulate local businesses, provide markets for farmers and strengthen Benue’s agricultural value chain, urging residents to farm extensively.
On security, he reiterated that no part of Benue would be given for ranching, insisting that the land must remain available for farming and other legitimate uses. He pledged to continue the fight against insecurity until lasting peace is restored and commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the establishment of the Nigerian Army 5 Division in Benue, with headquarters in Makurdi and deployments across strategic locations in the state.
Governor Alia said the administration is building a new Benue where agriculture thrives, industries operate, schools function, healthcare is accessible, communities are connected and people can live and work in peace. He expressed appreciation to the people of Apa and Agatu, traditional rulers, religious leaders, political leaders, community leaders and all stakeholders for their warm reception and continued support.
