FIC Report (Benue State) – Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the development and welfare of the people of the state as he marked his 60th birthday anniversary, while urging journalists to uphold fact-based and constructive criticism in the interest of democracy and good governance.
The governor made the call on Thursday during a symposium organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Benue State Council, at the Fr. Alia Ultra-Modern Conference Hall, Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA) Headquarters, Makurdi, in celebration of his 60th birthday.
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Sam Ode, Governor Alia described the media as “the compendium of public opinion,” stressing that journalists play a vital role in sustaining democracy, promoting accountability, and shaping public discourse.
He called on media practitioners to embrace responsible journalism anchored on truth, facts, and public interest rather than sensational or destructive narratives.
According to the governor, criticism remains essential to governance when it is objective and aimed at strengthening institutions and advancing society.
Governor Alia also commended the people of Benue State for their resilience and perseverance despite prevailing security and economic challenges, assuring them that better days lie ahead.
“At 60, I am more convinced that the greatest asset of Benue State is its people,” the governor stated, adding that his administration would continue to prioritise policies and programmes that improve the lives of citizens across the state.
He acknowledged that governance demands sacrifice, patience, and dedication, noting that although no leader is perfect, his administration remains focused on improving service delivery and advancing sustainable development.
Speaking in his personal capacity, Deputy Governor Sam Ode described Governor Alia as a prudent, transparent, and accountable leader who has maintained integrity in the management of public resources.
He further appreciated the governor for fostering a cordial and productive working relationship that has enabled him to contribute effectively to governance in the state.
Earlier in his address, Chairman of the NUJ Benue State Council, Comrade Bemdoo Ugber, said the symposium was organised not merely to celebrate the governor’s age but to critically assess his leadership and developmental achievements over the last three years.
Ugber explained that the gathering brought together intellectuals, academics, political stakeholders, and media professionals to reflect on the administration’s stewardship and impact on the state.
“This symposium transcends celebration. It is a platform for reflection, accountability, and evaluation of leadership,” he stated.
The NUJ chairman maintained that the union had independently observed the administration and concluded that the level of development recorded under Governor Alia within three years surpassed what many previous administrations achieved over a much longer period.
He stressed that the union’s commendation of the governor was based strictly on verifiable facts and measurable realities, in line with the ethical standards and constitutional responsibility of the media profession.
Ugber, however, appealed to the governor to assist in renovating the NUJ Secretariat, which he said had deteriorated further due to the rainy season, and also sought support in addressing over N15 million liabilities, including salaries and dues owed by the council.
He additionally appealed for the restoration of the NUJ Benue State Council to the official government protocol list.
Declaring the symposium open, Secretary to the Benue State Government and Chairperson of the occasion, Deaconess Deborah Aber, described Governor Alia as an inspiring leader whose life and leadership continue to give hope and confidence to the people of Benue State.
She prayed for God to grant the governor wisdom, strength, and good health to continue serving humanity.
Technical Adviser to the Governor on Media, Publicity and Strategic Communication, Chief Solomon Iorpev, presented an abridged profile of the governor, highlighting his transition from Catholic priesthood to political leadership.
He disclosed that Governor Alia, born on May 15, 1966, in Vandeikya Local Government Area of Benue State, studied at St. Augustine’s Major Seminary, Jos, before proceeding to Fordham University, New York, and Duquesne University, Pennsylvania, United States, where he obtained postgraduate degrees in Religious Education and Biomedical Ethics, alongside a doctorate degree.
According to Iorpev, Governor Alia also acquired extensive international experience in educational management and healthcare administration before venturing into politics.
Bridget Udoo Tarker
For Head of Centre
Federal Information Centre, Makurdi
