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Governor Hyacinth Alormem Alia of Benue State commemorated Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary with an inspiring address at the Government House, Makurdi, on Wednesday, October 1, 2025. The governor highlighted his administration’s achievements across education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, and security, while calling for unity, resilience, and collective responsibility to build a stronger Benue and Nigeria.
Speaking to government officials, community leaders, and citizens, Governor Alia reflected on the nation’s journey since independence. “Today, we stand united with millions of Nigerians across the country and beyond to celebrate 65 years of resilience, diversity, and the unyielding spirit of our people. This is not just a celebration but also a moment of reflection on the visionary ideals of our founding fathers,” he said.
The governor paid tribute to fallen heroes who sacrificed their lives for the nation’s freedom and sovereignty, extending heartfelt gratitude to military personnel and civilians who continue to serve. “We also pay tribute to our fallen heroes, military and civilians, who gave their lives in defense of our freedom. To those still in active service, we thank you and pray for your protection,” he added.
Governor Alia outlined progress in critical sectors, noting that in education, Benue State has renovated 354 schools and employed over 9,000 qualified teachers to ensure quality education in safe, welcoming environments. In healthcare, the Fr. Adasu University Teaching Hospital, Makurdi, has become a hub for medical tourism, with improvements in healthcare facilities, essential medications, and access to services in both rural and urban areas.
Infrastructure developments include the construction of two underpasses in Makurdi and Gboko, an upcoming overpass in Otukpo, repaired roads, built bridges, and rehabilitated waterworks, such as the Otobi Water Works, which now supplies potable water to Otukpo and its environs. To sustain Benue’s status as the “Food Basket of the Nation,” his administration has distributed improved seeds, fertilizers, and farming inputs, alongside investments in the Benue Fruit Juice Factory and Food Basket Breweries to create jobs and enhance the state’s resource value chain.
Training programs for 10,000 youths in ICT and 40,000 civil servants in digital tools have been launched to foster entrepreneurship and improve service delivery. Addressing insecurity, Governor Alia acknowledged the state’s challenges but assured citizens that efforts are yielding results. “We have embarked on security reforms to guarantee peace, protect our communities, and allow our people to live and farm without fear. Our uniformed men are making sacrifices and are recording huge successes,” he said.
The Independence Day celebration served as a platform for Governor Alia to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to transforming Benue State and ensuring it remains a vital part of Nigeria’s journey toward progress and prosperity.
