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Yesterday, Benue State Governor, Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, joined his fellow governors at the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) meeting held at the NGF Secretariat in Abuja, under the leadership of the Forum’s Chairman, H.E. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Governor of Kwara State. The session began with a minute of silence in honor of the late Pa Ahmed Momohsani Ododo, the beloved father of Kogi State Governor, H.E. Usman Ododo.
On behalf of the Government and people of Benue State, Governor Alia extended heartfelt condolences to Governor Ododo, his family, and the people of Kogi State, offering prayers for the peaceful repose of the late father’s soul.
The Forum also received a robust presentation from the Honourable Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy. The Strategic Roadmap presented is geared toward growing the sector’s GDP contribution to $100 billion by 2030 and creating over 3 million jobs.
Key Highlights of the Initiative
- A $200 million Creative Economy Development Fund.
- A $1 billion Creative & Tourism Infrastructure Corporation.
- Flagship projects such as the Lagos Arena, Abuja Creative City, and Renewed Hope Cultural Villages.
The reforms are designed to strengthen intellectual property protection, expand tourism, and elevate Nigeria’s cultural and creative presence globally. The Forum unanimously commended these far-reaching reforms and resolved to collaborate through State Creative Economy Desks, co-created festivals, and the adoption of the Naija Season platform.
Governor Alia emphasized Benue State’s rich cultural heritage, music, art, and tourism potential, stating that the state stands ready to leverage these opportunities for the benefit of its people. “The aim is to build a creative economy that generates jobs, empowers youth, and strengthens national unity,” he added.
