Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has reaffirmed that the future and progress of the state depend on unity and collective action among its citizens, regardless of political, ethnic, or religious differences.
Speaking on Sunday during an interdenominational service held in Makurdi to mark the state’s unity and development week, Governor Alia said Benue’s true strength lies in the shared values of hard work, resilience, and brotherhood that have defined its people for generations.
He urged all residents to look beyond partisan divides and work together for the common good, noting that no meaningful development could thrive in an atmosphere of division or mistrust.
Benue’s future does not rest on government alone but on our collective effort as a people. When we unite behind shared goals, we can overcome every challenge and build a stronger, more prosperous state.”
The governor highlighted key areas where unity was most needed — including security, agriculture, and infrastructure — stressing that peace and cooperation among communities were vital for investment and economic growth.
Alia assured that his administration remained committed to policies that promote inclusion and equitable development across all local governments, adding that his government’s ongoing rural road projects, school rehabilitation programmes, and farmer support initiatives were designed to benefit all residents equally.
Earlier in his remarks, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Joseph Iorapuu, commended the governor’s call for unity, describing it as timely and necessary given the current socio-economic challenges facing the state.
Also speaking, the Tor Tiv, Prof. James Ayatse, urged traditional rulers to play active roles in fostering peace and reconciliation within their domains. He said unity at the grassroots would ensure long-lasting stability and progress for the state.
Several community and youth leaders at the event pledged their support for the government’s developmental agenda and called on politicians to place the interest of the state above personal ambition.
Governor Alia concluded by reaffirming his vision of a “New Benue” built on unity, hard work, and shared prosperity, promising that his administration would continue to provide a platform where every citizen could contribute to the state’s growth.
