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In a heartwarming display of commitment to education, the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, on Sunday, 23 November 2025, threw his full weight behind the inaugural edition of the Spelling Bee Competition for Junior Secondary Schools across the state.
The colourful event, organised by the Fahan Foundation under the leadership of Mrs. Fayum Hammation, took place at the prestigious Mount Saint Gabriel’s Secondary School, Makurdi, drawing bright young minds from both public and private schools.
Representing the Governor was his Private Secretary and Principal Special Assistant on ICT & New Media, Comrade Angula Bishop Reuben, who delivered a powerful goodwill message. He described the participating students as “leaders and ambassadors of tomorrow” and urged them to remain diligent in their studies while sharpening their natural talents.
Comrade Angula revealed that Governor Alia graciously sponsored the entire competition through the Fahan Foundation, a gesture that was met with loud applause. He commended the organisers, teachers, and parents for their dedication to raising a generation grounded in academic excellence.
Prizes were presented in grand style: the overall winner received the top award from the Governor’s representative, while the first runner-up was decorated by the representative of the Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly. Mr. Jonathan Ayantse presented the third-place prize.
Among the dignitaries present were Dr. Terna Francis, pioneer Executive Secretary of the newly established Benue Education Quality Assurance and Examinations Board, representatives of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly.
Organisers described the maiden edition as an overwhelming success and expressed optimism that, with Governor Alia’s continued support, the annual competition will grow to become a major platform for discovering and nurturing linguistic talent among Benue’s young learners.
It was indeed a proud day for education in the Food Basket of the Nation.
