FIC Report (Benue State) – The Benue State House of Assembly on Friday 13th March considered three important bills aimed at strengthening economic diversification, infrastructure maintenance and environmental sustainability in the state at the Assembly complex in Makurdi.
The bills were presented for Second Reading by the Majority Leader, Hon. Sir Thomas Dugeri, during plenary presided the the speaker Rt. Hon. Alfred Emberga.
Leading the debate on H.B.28 – A Bill for a Law to Establish the Benue State Forestry, Mines and Solid Minerals Management Commission, Hon. Dugeri said the legislation seeks to provide a structured framework for the exploration, regulation and preservation of forest and mineral resources in the state.
He noted that although Benue is widely known as the “Food Basket of the Nation,” the state also possesses significant untapped mineral deposits including barite, kaolin, limestone and coal.
According to him, the proposed Commission will not compete with federal agencies that regulate mining activities but will complement their work by ensuring coordinated and orderly management of forest and mineral resources within the state.
He explained that the bill promotes economic diversification through partnerships with investors using Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs), while also enabling the state to collect legitimate land use fees and surface rents.
The Majority Leader further stated that the Commission would enforce environmental protection measures, including reforestation programmes, regulate mining and logging activities to improve security, and ensure that host communities benefit through Community Development Agreements that will provide social amenities such as schools, clinics and clean water.
Hon. Dugeri stressed that the global demand for solid minerals makes it imperative for Benue to establish a transparent institutional framework that will attract both local and foreign investors.
The bill was subsequently referred to the Joint Committees on Lands, Survey and Solid Minerals, and Water Resources, Environment and Climate Change for further legislative scrutiny.
Also presented was H.B.27 – A Bill for a Law to Establish the Benue State Road Maintenance Agency (BSRMA).
The Majority Leader said the proposed agency is designed to address the persistent problem of deteriorating roads caused by lack of regular maintenance.
He explained that the agency will implement routine maintenance programmes to ensure roads remain functional throughout the year, particularly those linking rural farming communities to urban markets.
Hon. Dugeri added that the agency will create employment opportunities through the establishment of road maintenance teams across the 23 Local Government Areas of the state.
He noted that while road maintenance is currently handled by the Ministry of Works, Housing and Urban Development, the proposed agency will provide a specialized and dedicated structure with its own funding stream to ensure efficiency.
According to him, effective road maintenance will also enhance food security by ensuring smooth transportation of agricultural produce from farms to markets across the country.
He further emphasized that properly maintained roads will reduce accidents, improve security and safeguard public investments in infrastructure.
The bill was referred to the House Standing Committee on Works, Housing and Urban Development for further legislative consideration.
Similarly, the House also considered H.B.26 – A Bill for a Law to Establish the Benue State Gardens, Parks and Recreation Centres Management Agency.
Presenting the bill, Hon. Dugeri said the proposed agency will focus on the professional management and development of parks, gardens and recreational centres across major urban areas in the state.
He explained that the initiative aims to promote environmental sustainability, improve public health and enhance the overall aesthetic outlook of Benue’s urban centres including Makurdi, Gboko and Otukpo.
According to him, well-developed green spaces help improve air quality, reduce urban heat effects and support proper water drainage during heavy rains.
The Majority Leader further stated that the bill provides opportunities for Public-Private Partnerships (PPP), allowing private investors to manage recreational facilities under government regulation while generating revenue for the state.
He added that the establishment of the agency will also create employment opportunities for professionals such as landscape architects, horticulturists, security personnel and facility managers.
Hon. Dugeri emphasized that properly managed parks and recreational centres will also help address security concerns by transforming poorly maintained open spaces that often serve as hideouts for criminals into safe and vibrant public environments.
He said the initiative will improve the quality of life of residents by providing spaces for relaxation, social gatherings and recreational activities.
The bill was subsequently referred to the House Standing Committee on Culture and Tourism for further legislative scrutiny.
The proposed legislations are part of ongoing efforts by the Benue State House of Assembly to strengthen governance structures, stimulate economic growth and improve the welfare of citizens.
VERONICA AZEMBA
For Head of Center FIC Makurdi
