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Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia has restated his administration’s unwavering commitment to free and compulsory basic education across all public schools in Benue State, covering Basic One through Basic Nine (Primary 1 to Junior Secondary School 3).
The governor made the declaration during the maiden edition of the Benue Basic Education Summit held at the College of Health Sciences, Moses Orshio Adasu University, Makurdi, on Friday, February 20, 2026.
Governor Alia highlighted key achievements in the education sector under his leadership, including the recruitment of over 9,700 teachers, consistent payment of salaries, and the implementation of the harmonized retirement age for teachers. He stressed that no child of school age in Benue would be left out of school under his watch, describing the free education policy as a deliberate measure to support the poor and vulnerable while laying a solid foundation for tomorrow’s leaders.
At the event, the governor formally launched the historic “Building Rights to Access and Compulsory Education for Un-enrolled Pupils” (BRACE-UP) initiative—a sustainable, evidence-based strategy designed to ensure every Benue child is enrolled, retained, and empowered through quality basic education. BRACE-UP will mobilize community leaders, parents, teachers, and other stakeholders to identify out-of-school children, create flexible learning pathways, and track each learner’s progress from enrollment to completion.
Governor Alia promised continued catalytic funding and policy regulations aligned with the Universal Basic Education (UBE) Act to prioritize compulsory, free basic education for all children in the state.
In a related highlight, the National leadership of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), led by Comrade Audu Titus Amba, presented Governor Alia with a GOLDEN AWARD FOR EDUCATION AND TEACHER FRIENDLINESS. The recognition was in appreciation of the administration’s collective efforts in revitalizing basic education across Benue State.
Responding to the award, the governor pledged to clear one month’s arrears owed to retired teachers and reaffirmed his determination to work tirelessly for their welfare. In his words: “You have taught me and I won’t cheat you.”
The summit and award presentation underscore the Alia administration’s priority on education as a tool for social inclusion, human capital development, and long-term transformation in Benue State.
