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The Benue State Government marked a significant milestone today as it distributed 5,000 high-yielding Tenera oil palm seedlings to women of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the party’s Secretariat in Makurdi. This initiative, led by Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, aims to boost women’s economic empowerment and promote agricultural sustainability.
Hon. Teresa Odache Ikwe, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, presented the seedlings on behalf of the Governor, emphasizing that the program is designed to ensure every woman in the state owns and nurtures a palm tree for long-term benefits. “His Excellency has graciously donated 5,000 palm trees to the women of Benue State. If properly taken care of, these seedlings will provide oil for households, serve as a source of income, and reduce economic pressure on families,” she stated, urging women to prepare their voter’s cards ahead of 2027 to support Alia’s continued leadership.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Women Affairs, Hon. Scholastica Bem-Sor, hailed the gesture as a major breakthrough for women’s visibility in governance. She noted that one palm tree can produce about 25 bunches, creating opportunities for domestic use and commercial sales, thereby boosting Benue’s GDP and strengthening food security. “We are grateful to Governor Alia for prioritizing women in his development agenda,” she added.
Echoing this sentiment, the APC Woman Leader, Mrs. Helen Agaigbe, likened the initiative to teaching women to fish rather than giving them fish. “Our governor has shown true love for the women of Benue State. Just as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is empowering Nigerians, Governor Alia is empowering us here at home. For us, 2027 will be a walkover—four plus four equals eight,” she declared confidently.
The Special Adviser on International Affairs, Mr. Alex Addngi, described the seedlings as a “precious gift” with the potential to yield significant financial returns. “With proper care, one tree can generate up to a hundred thousand naira annually. Beyond roads, schools, and hospitals, this initiative will sustain families for years, with industries and off-takers already available to process or buy the produce, ensuring no harvest goes to waste,” he said.
The event was marked by excitement and optimism, with women pledging to nurture the seedlings in line with Governor Alia’s vision of sustainable development and inclusive economic growth. This initiative underscores Alia’s commitment to empowering women and fostering long-term prosperity in Benue State.
