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In a resounding affirmation of leadership and innovation, Benue State Governor, Reverend Father Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has been honored with the prestigious African Eagle Award for Best Governor in Socio-Economic Development Initiative 2025. The accolade was bestowed during the just-concluded Accolade Africa Growth Summit and Awards (AAGSA) held in London, United Kingdom. The recognition highlights Governor Alia’s visionary leadership, innovative governance, and unwavering commitment to humanitarian and inclusive growth in Benue State.
This was made known in a press statement signed by the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Accolade Dynamics Limited, Doofan Chizaram Tor. The award, presented during the summit’s gala night, underscores the transformative projects under Governor Alia’s administration that enhance the welfare of citizens and attract investment into the state.
Represented at the event by his deputy, Barr. Sam Ode, mni, Governor Alia expressed that the recognition would further motivate his administration to deliver impactful projects. Benue State’s delegation to the summit also seized the opportunity to showcase the state’s rich agricultural potential and investment opportunities, positioning it as a credible destination for sustainable development and partnerships.
This year’s summit, themed “Developing Africa Through Investment and Recognition,” brought together political leaders, diplomats, investors, academics, and development partners from across Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas to deliberate on strategies for advancing Africa’s economic growth. Key discussions revolved around two major topics: “Africans Financing Africa” and “Enhancing Regional Integration and Trade.” Participants explored ways to strengthen intra-African trade and promote self-driven financing models for sustainable development.
The event featured notable speakers, including H.E. Toga Gayewea McIntosh, former Vice President of the ECOWAS Commission; Matthew Anderso, Managing Director of TVET UK; Dr. Daniel Kawczynski, former UK parliamentarian; and other international experts in investment and innovation. The statement also said the 2025 edition reaffirmed the forum’s role as a credible platform for fostering Africa’s sustainable growth through investment, innovation, and recognition.
“For Benue State, the Summit offered invaluable global visibility—reaffirming its status as ‘The Food Basket of the Nation’ and highlighting its readiness for investment and partnership. The event’s success strengthens the narrative of a progressive, transparent, and investment-ready Africa, united by innovation and shared prosperity,” the statement added.
A communiqué issued at the end of the summit outlined practical steps for sustaining Africa’s growth momentum through collaboration, investment, and good governance. Coralita Yard, 2nd Vice President of the Collectivity of Saint Martin (Barbados), also commended the organisers and extended an invitation to host AAGSA 2026 in Saint Martin.
The Accolade Africa Growth Summit continues to serve as a vital bridge for African leaders to engage with global stakeholders, driving forward the continent’s agenda for economic self-reliance and prosperity. For Benue State and its award-winning governor, this international spotlight marks another milestone in the journey toward inclusive and sustainable development.
