Governor of Benue State, His Excellency Reverend Father Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has commended the Igbo community in the state for their immense contributions to its economic growth and development. The Governor made the remarks during the Igbo Day celebration held at IBB Square, Makurdi, where he described the Igbo people as the brain box of the state’s economy, acknowledging their significant role in commercial activities, entrepreneurship, trade and business development across Benue.
Governor Alia noted that the Igbo community has established a strong presence in all the 23 local government areas of the state, contributing immensely to economic activities and improving the livelihoods of residents through their businesses and investments. He expressed profound appreciation to the community for their continued support for his administration and the people of Benue State, particularly commending them for their peaceful disposition, cooperation and consistent commitment to law and order.
The Governor also recalled the longstanding personal relationship and support he has enjoyed from his Igbo friends, disclosing that his first trip to Jerusalem was sponsored by them. He further acknowledged the significant role played by the Igbo community during the 2023 governorship election, noting that they contributed immensely to his campaign through various forms of support and assistance. According to him, the support has not been limited to Igbo residents in Benue State, as his Igbo friends and associates outside the state have also continued to demonstrate solidarity with his administration.
Governor Alia assured the Igbo community that their welfare and interests would remain a priority under his leadership, stressing that he deeply values their friendship, contributions and partnership in building a prosperous Benue State. He also expressed gratitude to the community for finding him worthy of recognition and bestowing on him a prestigious traditional title in Igboland, describing the honour as a demonstration of the strong bond, mutual respect and cordial relationship between him and the Igbo people.
The Governor thanked the Igbo community for their continued confidence and support, expressing optimism that the relationship would remain strong. He called for sustained cooperation and solidarity, particularly as the state looks towards the 2027 political season, expressing confidence that the Igbo community would continue to stand with him until the completion of his constitutionally permitted eight-year tenure as Executive Governor of Benue State. The Igbo Day celebration highlighted the importance of unity, peaceful coexistence, cultural diversity and inter-ethnic cooperation in promoting economic development and strengthening the relationship between the Igbo community and their host state. Governor Alia reiterated his administration’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where all ethnic groups, residents, investors and business owners can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the development of Benue State.
