FIC Report (Benue State) – The Benue State Public Service Institute has reaffirmed its commitment to improving governance efficiency by equipping civil servants with modern skills and tools necessary for effective service delivery. The institute is also set to host a national conference on homeland security, aimed at developing strategic solutions to the security challenges facing the state.
Dr. Mark Nyitse, the Director of Research and Publication at the institute, disclosed this during an interview in Makurdi on 25th February 2025 emphasized that the training and retraining of civil servants will bridge existing capacity gaps, ensuring the smooth implementation of government policies and programs.
“Governor Hyacinth Alia believes that a well-trained civil service is crucial to the success of his administration’s policies and programs. That is why the institute has taken the initiative to provide targeted training tailored to the needs of the civil service,” Dr. Nyitse stated.
According to him, the institute has already trained staff members of the Government House to ensure they understand their roles and responsibilities. Additionally, newly appointed permanent secretaries, some of whom were new to their roles, underwent specialized training to familiarize them with the expectations of their offices.
Similarly, the 23 newly elected Local Government Chairmen were given comprehensive training on their duties before assuming office. The institute also plays a key role in conducting promotion examinations for civil servants and pre-retirement training for those exiting the service, preparing them for life after retirement.
National Conference on Homeland Security
In furtherance of its commitment to national development, the Benue Civil Service Institute is organizing a National Conference on Homeland Security. The conference, scheduled to take place from March 26 to 28, 2025, will bring together security experts and stakeholders to discuss innovative strategies for tackling insecurity in Benue State and beyond.
“We recognize that security is a major concern for Benue State, and Governor Alia is deeply committed to addressing this challenge. The Homeland Security Conference will serve as a platform for experts to present practical solutions that can enhance safety in the state and the nation at large,” Dr. Nyitse explained.
The conference will feature discussions on various security-related topics, with insights from experienced professionals in the field. The institute is also leveraging digital platforms to ensure widespread participation and dissemination of key takeaways from the event.
Strategic Partnerships and Capacity Building
Beyond governance and security, the institute is working in collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to train drivers on safe road usage. Furthermore, plans are underway to establish digital training programs aimed at equipping the youth with relevant technological skills, reducing unemployment, and curbing negative engagement on social media.
“We are dedicated to ensuring that Benue State remains a hub for continuous learning, research, and innovation. Our goal is to empower civil servants and the general public with the right knowledge and skills to contribute meaningfully to the development of our state and country,” Dr. Nyitse concluded.
The Benue Civil Service Institute remains steadfast in its mission to drive excellence in public service while actively contributing to national security and2025 socio-economic development.
Signed
IRENE IVEREN ONEHI
HEAD OF CENTRE FEDERAL INFORMATION CENTRE MAKURDI
