………Governor Alia receives NIPSS delegation on transformative study tour.
FIC Report (Benue State) – Benue State moved a step closer to harnessing its inland water potential as the Executive Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, on Monday, 14th July 2025, welcomed the Study Group 4 of the Senior Executive Course 47, 2025 from the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Jos.
The high-level visit, held at the Old Banquet Hall of the Government House in Makurdi, provided a platform for deep policy engagement on how inland states like Benue can contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s emerging blue economy drive.
Governor Alia, represented by his Deputy, Barr. Dr. Sam Ode, mni, said the visit was not just timely but a strong signal that the national conversation on the blue economy is expanding beyond the coastal corridors of the country.
“Benue has for too long been seen only through the lens of agriculture and solid minerals,” Dr. Ode said. “But our rivers, wetlands, and aquatic ecosystems hold equally powerful economic value that must be explored in a sustainable way.”
He noted that River Benue and other inland waterways, if properly developed, could unlock opportunities in fisheries, transportation, renewable energy, and climate-smart agriculture. He disclosed that the state government has responded proactively by creating a dedicated Ministry of Blue Economy, a bold move aimed at driving investment, policy reform, and multi-sectoral collaboration.
The Deputy Governor also hinted at plans to launch pilot projects in river transport and integrated aquaculture as part of the administration’s long-term development vision.
Leader of the visiting team, Prof. Ayo Omotayo, who is the Director-General of NIPSS, commended the state’s foresight and readiness to explore new economic frontiers. He emphasized that the blue economy is no longer a futuristic concept but an urgent national priority with the potential to generate revenue, create jobs, and mitigate environmental risks.
“This study tour is not ceremonial,” Prof. Omotayo stated. “It is part of a rigorous national assignment to identify how different states, including landlocked ones, can plug into the blue economy framework and help shape national policy.”
He explained that the Senior Executive Course brings together seasoned leaders from across security, civil service, academia, and the private sector, all tasked to generate innovative ideas that influence national development.
The session featured technical briefings, stakeholder engagement, and idea exchanges focused on how Benue can align its local economic realities with the broader national strategy for blue growth.
In attendance were top government officials, including the Secretary to the State Government, Deaconess Deborah Serumun Aber, the Principal Private Secretary to the Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Chenge, members of the State Executive Council, and senior officials from the Ministry of Agriculture, Environment, Water Resources, and the newly formed Ministry of Blue Economy.
As the study tour continues, expectations remain high that Benue could emerge as a national model for how inland states can leverage natural resources for inclusive and sustainable growth.
Signed:
Bridget Tarker
For Head of Centre
Federal Information Centre, Makurdi
