By Barns Chonkula
The Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transforming the state into an economic hub powered by strategic investment in solid minerals, agriculture, and infrastructure.
Speaking today at Government House, Makurdi during the official presentation and inspection visit of the Natural Resources Development Fund (NRDF) Grant Report by delegations of the Benue State Government and the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), the Governor described the engagement as “a defining moment” for Benue’s sustainable development drive.
He said, “Prosperity is never automatic; it must be built deliberately, strategically, and inclusively,”
He highlighted the alignment between the NRDF initiative and Benue’s newly launched 10-year Strategic Development Plan, structured around seven development pillars, saying, the state’s submission to the NRDF is aimed at delivering key outcomes such as economic diversification, increased internally generated revenue (IGR), attraction of foreign direct investment, and export-oriented value chains.
Among the projects presented for NRDF consideration are initiatives in mineral resource development, agribusiness innovation, tourism revitalization, and critical infrastructure upgrades.
While calling for support from the Commission and other stakeholders, the Goernor stated that, “…this is not just a funding request; it’s a blueprint for wealth creation, job generation, and inclusive growth.”
He reiterated his administration’s resolve to entrench good governance, strengthen institutions, and empower youths and women across the state, promising that Benue under his leadership would continue to mirror transparency, functionality, and development.
Emphasizing that the state remains “The Food Basket of the Nation” with vast natural and human resources, submitted that partnership with federal institutions and development agencies remains the cornerstone of Benue’s transformation agenda.
“We know we cannot do this alone. That is why this collaboration is so important,” he stated.
The event was attended by top officials from the RMAFC, members of the Benue State Executive Council, development experts, and traditional leaders.
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