Benue State Governor, His Excellency Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, on Thursday announced a significant improvement in the security situation across the state, stating that only three out of the 23 local government areas now experience minimal threats, with relative peace prevailing even in those areas.
The governor made the disclosure while receiving the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, who paid him a courtesy visit at the Government House in Makurdi.
According to a statement by the Government House Information Officer, Kehe Hon, Governor Alia revealed that when his administration assumed office on May 29, 2023, about 17 local government areas were under serious security threats. He attributed the remarkable turnaround to sustained collaboration between the state government and security agencies, particularly the Nigerian Army and support from the Federal Government.
The governor commended the Nigerian Army and the Federal Government for their unwavering support in tackling insecurity, noting that close coordination between the military and the state administration has been instrumental in achieving the improved security landscape.
He urged residents to continue supporting security agencies by providing credible intelligence, stressing that communities must view uniformed personnel as true partners in protecting lives and property. Governor Alia emphasized that collective responsibility and information sharing remain vital to sustaining the gains made so far.
The courtesy visit by the Chief of Army Staff underscores the ongoing strategic partnership between the Benue State Government and the Nigerian military in consolidating peace and stability across the state. Residents and stakeholders have welcomed the governor’s assessment as a positive indicator of progress in addressing one of the state’s most pressing challenges.
