International Youth Day: Alia Hails Benue Youths, Awards Scholarships

The usually serene School of Nursing Auditorium at Moses Orshio Adasu University, Makurdi, came alive with colour, music, and energy on Tuesday as hundreds of enthusiastic young people gathered to celebrate International Youth Day 2025.

Observed globally every August 12 since its recognition by the United Nations in 2000, the occasion became a rallying point for unity, patriotism, and renewed hope in Benue State.

From the moment Governor Hyacinth Alia mounted the podium, the atmosphere turned electric. Speaking with conviction, he described Benue youths as “the most creative youth on the face of Nigeria” and urged them to embrace their roles as agents of change.

“You represent what the entire future holds,” he declared, reminding the gathering that the day was about celebrating their resilience, creativity, and capacity to shape the state’s destiny.

The governor called for positive thinking, unity, and patriotism, warning against negative cultural influences and divisive politics. “If you are patriotic, you wouldn’t be counting down on your state… Let us build synergy for positive action and thinking,” he urged. He further encouraged them to register to vote, describing their voter’s card as their “voice to fast-forward development.”

Governor Alia also announced that International Youth Day 2026 would be even bigger, featuring competitions, artistic showcases, and youth-driven projects across the state — all sponsored by the government. As part of his administration’s empowerment agricultural support scheme, he reaffirmed his commitment to providing young farmers with free land preparation, improved seedlings, fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides, and technical support.

Highlighting Benue’s agricultural potential, he noted: “Benue State is the number one producer of soyabeans in Nigeria and a global leader in yam production,” urging young people to explore farming opportunities in rice, sesame seeds, ginger, cashew, and citrus. “We are here to support you… This is your Benue, and you are the change we talk about.”

The celebration was also marked by tangible government support. The governor announced a ₦20 million donation to various youth groups and the provision of five new 14-seater buses to academic, political, and social youth associations.

Other speakers at the event echoed his optimism. Hon Fidelis Unongo, Special Adviser on Special Duties and Inter-governmental Affairs, emphasised that the Alia administration stands out in Nigeria for having a cabinet composed of about 70 per cent youths. “This is your government. If you don’t realize that your time is now, I don’t know what you’re looking for again,” he challenged.

Hon Terver Gbenda, the state youth leader, lauded the governor for tackling cultism, improving security in hotspots like North Bank, Wadata, and Otukpo, and ensuring young people no longer face harassment during building projects. “Before, they used us and dumped us. But you don’t use people,” he said.

Representing students, Comrade Peter Akperashi, President of the National Union of Benue State Students (NUBESS), praised the administration’s infrastructural improvements  from tarred roads to solar streetlights in student-populated areas  which have enhanced safety and mobility. He pledged students’ full support for Governor Alia’s leadership and future political ambitions.

In a heartwarming moment, Governor Alia specially commended Miss Naswem Joy Doose of SORA HEIGHTS School, Gboko, who emerged as Benue’s highest scorer and placed third nationally in the 2025 JAMB with 369 marks. He also celebrated two outstanding students from Kusaki Secondary School who earned eight distinctions each in their WAEC and excelled in the JAMB examinations they participated in the National science competition and led the state stood out. Applauding their resilience and brilliance, the governor said they had brought pride to their schools, families, and the entire state.

He urged students across Benue to prioritise academics, noting that education can unlock opportunities “beyond imagination” anywhere in the world. In a symbolic gesture of encouragement, he promised to host their 18th birthday celebration next month at the Government House and pledged that his administration would fully sponsor their tuition at any institution worldwide.

The day ended in a swirl of cultural displays, music, and celebration. As the sun set over Makurdi, the message was clear: Benue’s young people are ready to take charge of their future  and their government is ready to walk with them. In the words of Governor Alia, “This is your Benue, and you are the change we talk about.”

Bridget Tikyaa

Is the Principal Special Assistant to the Governor on Media Publicity and Communication Strategy