FIC Report (Benue State) – The Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Alfred Aondoaver Emberga, has reiterated the Assembly’s commitment to enacting people-oriented laws that will drive development and improve the welfare of citizens across the state.
The Speaker made this known during a public hearing on four critical bills held at the Assembly Complex in Makurdi on Saturday, March 14, 2026.
In his keynote address, the Speaker welcomed the Deputy Speaker, House Leaders, Honourable Members, members of the State Executive Council, traditional rulers, the Clerk and staff of the House, members of the press, and other stakeholders who attended the hearing.
Rt. Hon. Emberga stated that the hearing was organized to gather public input and expert opinions on four key bills currently undergoing legislative consideration by the House.
The bills include:
A Bill for a Law to Provide Road Traffic Management and Vehicle Inspection in Benue State and for Purposes Connected Therewith, 2026.
A Bill for a Law to Establish the Benue State Security Trust Fund and for Other Matters Connected Therewith, 2026.
A Bill for a Law to Establish the Benue State Electricity/Power Management Agency (BESPMA) and Other Matters Related Thereto, 2024 (Executive Bill).
A Bill to Repeal the Law Establishing the Agricultural Training Centre, Mbatie and to Re-enact a Law Establishing the College of Agriculture, Mbatie, and for Other Matters Connected Therewith, 2025.
Speaking during the public hearing, the Managing Director of Benue Investment and Property Company, Dr. Raymond Asemakaha, described the bills as strategic to the development of the state.
According to him, improved and stable electricity supply would attract investors to Benue State, while the establishment of the College of Agriculture, Mbatie, would help reduce post-harvest losses and enhance agricultural productivity.
The Speaker emphasized that the Assembly values the opinions and experiences of stakeholders and remains committed to producing legislation that serves the best interests of the people.
He encouraged participants to freely share their thoughts, concerns, and recommendations that would help the House enact laws capable of standing the test of time.
Rt. Hon. Emberga also expressed confidence that the relevant House Standing Committees handling the bills would carry out due diligence in reviewing all submissions made during the public hearing.
The Speaker further commended the support of the Executive Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Iormem Alia, noting that the Assembly appreciates the Governor’s cooperation and will continue to maintain a harmonious working relationship with other arms of government to promote good governance in the state.
He assured stakeholders that the House is ready to partner with the public to ensure that the voices of the people are reflected in the laws of the state.
Rt. Hon. Emberga concluded by declaring the public hearing open and calling on all participants to contribute meaningfully toward building a better future for Benue State and generations yet unborn.
VERONICA AZEMBA
For Head of Center FIC Makurdi
