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Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia has appealed for deeper and more effective partnership between the North-Central Development Commission (NCDC) and the Benue State Government to confront pressing challenges of insecurity, resettlement of internally displaced persons (IDPs), and the improvement of rural infrastructure.
The governor made the appeal on Wednesday during a courtesy visit by the Board and Management of the Commission, led by Barr. Cosmos Akighir and Dr. Cyril Tseenyi, at the Old Banquet Hall, Government House, Makurdi.
Governor Alia acknowledged the strides made by his administration in restoring peace across Benue State but cautioned that security threats persist and require sustained, comprehensive action. He likened insecurity to a persistent monster, stating, “Security is like a monster. Cut the tail and another part will spring up. Cut the hand and you see another part developing to cause havoc.”
He placed particular emphasis on the urgent resettlement of displaced persons back to their ancestral homes, stressing that lasting peace is essential for Benue’s people to continue their vital role in feeding the nation through agriculture.
The governor further highlighted the need for joint efforts in key areas including agricultural value chains, youth employment, and rural infrastructure development. He noted that his administration’s budget prioritizes rural growth but stressed that meaningful support from the North-Central Development Commission is indispensable to achieving these goals.
Governor Alia urged the Commission to operate in an apolitical manner, warning that any form of political interference could compromise its core mandate and effectiveness.
The statements were officially confirmed by Sir Tersoo Kula, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, in a release issued following the meeting.
The engagement underscores the growing recognition of collaborative frameworks involving federal-regional bodies and state governments in addressing multi-dimensional challenges in the North-Central zone, with Benue positioning itself as a proactive partner in the process.
