A prominent Benue social media activist, D’nkaked Elder Sughnen Yaaya, has thrown down a 48-hour challenge to political office holders from Kwande Local Government Area and appointees of Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia to empower a talented young woman with the tools needed to establish her own hair salon.
In a widely shared post, the activist highlighted the girl’s skills in hairdressing and beauty services, questioning stereotypes about Benue women while insisting she deserves immediate support to turn her talent into a sustainable business. He specifically called for the provision of a shop (or rental space), a generator, salon equipment, and other necessary accessories.
“If no one moves within 48 hours to empower her, I’ll do it within my powers. Watch closely and wisely,” Yaaya declared, tagging Governor Alia and a long list of Kwande-origin politicians, senior appointees, and government officials.
Among those publicly tagged and challenged include:
– Prof. Yangien Timothy Ornguga (Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice and Public Order)
– Hon. Terngu Shawon (Special Adviser on Politics)
– Msughter Fidelis Unongo (Special Adviser on Special Duties)
– Dr. Aondoakaa Asambe (DG, Bureau of Livestock Development)
– Uta Stephen Aondonona (Executive Secretary, Bureau of Mines and Solid Minerals)
– Hon. Bem Jacob Tseen (Executive Secretary, Teaching Service Board)
– Kumafan Dzaan (Statistician General)
– Mrs. Scholastic Liam (Commissioner, Civil Service Commission)
– Alexander Mbakindev (Executive Secretary, Benue State Rehabilitation Board)
– Dr. Mrs. Erdoo Mongol-Aghah (MD/CEO, Benue Geo-Mining Company)
– Joel Terhemen Mtsôr (MD, Benue Printing)
– Engr. Msughter Philip Chiga (Kwande Gubernatorial Liaison)
– And several others holding Special Assistant and Principal Special Assistant roles across ministries and agencies.
The activist emphasized that Benue girls are skillful, hardworking, and capable when given opportunities, using the challenge to counter negative narratives and push for practical empowerment of young women in the state.
The post has sparked considerable online conversation, with many users expressing support for the initiative and calling on the tagged officials to respond swiftly. As of this report, no public commitment or action from the named individuals has been confirmed.
Yaaya’s challenge underscores growing calls across Benue for targeted empowerment programs that convert vocational skills into viable small businesses, particularly for youth and women in rural and semi-urban areas. The 48-hour deadline set by the activist ends on Monday, February 17, 2026.
