In a major political development within Benue State, Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia has formally disbanded the entire State Executive Council, effectively removing all appointed commissioners from their positions. The dissolution was announced following the conclusion of the 12th executive council meeting of 2025. Interestingly, the Office of the Chief of Staff was exempted from this sweeping decision. Instead, the role will now be filled by Barrister Moses Atagher, who formerly served as the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice. Atagher, a veteran administrator with prior experience as the acting Managing Director of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, has officially assumed the new post with immediate effect. The announcement of the reshuffle was made by Terso Kula, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Alia. According to Kula, the cabinet shake-up impacts only the commissioners, while the Chief of Staff position was simply reassigned rather than abolished. In addressing the outgoing commissioners, Governor Alia expressed deep gratitude for their dedication and service over the past two years. He commended their contributions to his administration and encouraged those who may not be reappointed to continue supporting his leadership and remain committed to the ideals of the party. Responding on behalf of his colleagues, Barrister Bemsen Mnyim conveyed appreciation to Governor Alia for the opportunity to serve. Mnyim described the cabinet experience as both enriching and educational, stating it had been a valuable journey of learning and public engagement. The dismissed commissioners have been formally instructed to transition responsibilities by handing over to the Permanent Secretaries of their respective ministries, ensuring continuity in governance and administrative flow.
Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has expressed that the presence and backing of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during a period of distress has offered the people of Benue a renewed sense of hope and resilience. Governor Alia made this known in a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Tersoo Kula, on Thursday in Makurdi. He lauded the President’s directive to apprehend armed herdsmen responsible for violent attacks in Benue and across Nigeria. He thanked President Tinubu for his promise to collaborate with the state’s leadership in establishing enduring peace and security within the region. “We’re sincerely grateful for your resolve in tackling security issues, especially your command to the Chief of Defence Staff and the Inspector General of Police,” Alia noted. “Your decisive move to curb the threat of armed herders strengthens our confidence that the safety of our people and the return of displaced farmers to their land are priorities under your administration.” The governor extended heartfelt gratitude to Tinubu for personally visiting the state after the tragic incident at Yelwata town. He also acknowledged the unwavering support from fellow governors, particularly members of the Progressive Governors’ Forum led by Governor Hope Uzodinma, for standing by the state during its darkest hour. “Your joint actions reflect a shared resolve against violence and a strong dedication to the well-being of communities nationwide,” Alia added. Governor Alia affirmed that the people of Benue find comfort in the empathy and leadership demonstrated by the President, his colleagues, and other concerned Nigerians. He reassured citizens that his administration will actively collaborate with critical stakeholders to rebuild communities and restore peace across the state.
Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State extends Christmas and New Year holidays for civil servants to January 6, 2025, promoting well-being and agricultural productivity. Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has officially extended the Christmas and New Year holidays for civil servants across the state. The announcement, made on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, highlights his administration’s commitment to the welfare and productivity of public workers. Extended Holiday Schedule The holiday period, initially set to end earlier, now spans from Tuesday, December 24, 2024, to Sunday, January 6, 2025. Governor Alia emphasized the significance of this decision, noting that it aims to enhance the well-being of the state’s workforce. Recognizing Civil Servants’ Contributions Governor Alia lauded the dedication of civil servants, stating, “Your dedication and commitment to duty have been instrumental in driving our collective agenda for development.” This gesture underscores the administration’s appreciation for the efforts of workers in advancing Benue State’s development goals. Encouraging Festive Celebrations and Agricultural Productivity The extended holiday also aims to provide civil servants with an opportunity to spend quality time with their families during the festive season. Additionally, the governor acknowledged the importance of agriculture to the state’s economy, encouraging workers to use the time to focus on their farming activities. “It is also expected that the holiday will afford you time to attend to your various agricultural engagements,” Governor Alia added. Continuity of Essential Services Despite the extended break, Governor Alia mandated uninterrupted operations of essential services, including: These measures aim to ensure that critical services remain accessible to the public throughout the holiday period. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has taken a bold step to address insecurity by launching a 5,000-member Benue State Civil Protection Guards (BSCPG) and a Joint Security Task Force called Operation Anyam Nyor. As part of this initiative, the Governor donated 100 Hilux trucks and 600 special combat motorcycles to enhance the operational capacity of security agencies in the state. Speaking at the launch in Makurdi, Governor Alia emphasized that the BSCPG was established by law to support the state’s existing security agencies. He explained that this collaboration would adopt global best practices in tackling the region’s security challenges. Highlighting the significance of security to societal progress, he said, “Our goal is to decisively address criminality and create a safe environment where residents can live, farm, and thrive without fear. This launch of the Civil Protection Guards, alongside the donation of vehicles and unveiling of Operation Anyam Nyor, is a critical milestone in our mission to safeguard Benue State.” The Governor commended President Bola Tinubu for his backing of the initiative and praised the volunteers who joined the security outfit. He urged them to maintain high ethical standards in carrying out their duties. Royal and Political Endorsements The Tor Tiv and Chairman of the Benue State Traditional Council, Prof. James Ayatse, applauded Governor Alia’s efforts, describing it as a historic investment in security. “This shows you prioritize security, and you have the full backing of the Traditional Council. We will work closely with the guards to combat insecurity in our communities,” he said. However, he cautioned against using the guards for political purposes. Gombe State Governor and Chairman of the Northern Governors’ Forum, Inuwa Yahaya, also praised the initiative, calling it a proactive step toward addressing Benue’s security challenges. He urged residents to support Governor Alia in his efforts to ensure peace. Similarly, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Umar Ganduje, congratulated Governor Alia and the state government. He noted that the establishment of the BSCPG would enhance security, particularly in mitigating conflicts between farmers and herders. Governor Alia’s multi-pronged approach underscores his administration’s commitment to restoring peace and creating a conducive environment for economic and social development in Benue State. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has announced a leadership change in the Bureau of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. Dr. Dennis Akura has been relieved of his role as Special Adviser and reassigned to a new position. Taking his place is Mr. Denen Aondoakaa, who assumes the role with immediate effect. The announcement was made through a statement issued on Sunday by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula. The statement clarified that Dr. Akura will now serve as the Special Adviser on Financial and Economic Strategy, Planning, and Development. According to the release: “Dr. Dennis Akura has been given a new appointment to serve as the Special Adviser on Financial and Economic Strategy, Planning, and Development, effective immediately. Mr. Denen Aondoakaa has been appointed as the new Special Adviser for the Bureau of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.” About Denen Aondoakaa Mr. Denen Aondoakaa, a former banker, has previously served as a Senior Special Assistant to Governor Alia. His extensive experience in governance and financial management is expected to contribute significantly to the administration’s goals for local governance and traditional leadership. This leadership shuffle reflects Governor Alia’s focus on strategic appointments aimed at enhancing service delivery and achieving developmental goals across Benue State.

