Gov Alia To Lead Igede Leadership Discourse Ahead Of 2027 Elections

Benue State governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, is expected to attend the second public lecture of the Association of Igede Media Professionals (AIMP) as the guest of honour.

The event will focus on strengthening political leadership recruitment in Igedeland ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The lecture, scheduled for 16th July, 2026, in Abuja, will bring together policymakers, professionals, traditional rulers, technocrats, youths and other stakeholders to deliberate on the theme, “Rethinking Political Leadership Recruitment System in Igedeland Ahead of 2027.”

In a statement issued in Abuja by the chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Patrick Akobo and chairman of the Media and Publicity Sub-committee, Dr Joe Agi-Ajochi, the organisers said the forum is intended to encourage critical discussions on the process of producing credible political leaders capable of advancing the development of Igedeland.

The organisers noted that the quality of political leadership largely determines the direction and progress of any society, stressing the need for stakeholders to reflect on the recruitment of leaders ahead of the next election cycle.

It added that the lecture would provide an avenue for intellectual engagement among respected thought leaders, policymakers, professionals, technocrats, community stakeholders, women, and youths to promote merit-driven leadership.

According to the organisers, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Finance, Raymond Omachi, will chair the occasion, while the spokesperson of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Barrister. Benson Upah will deliver the keynote address.

Adirahu Ny’Igede, Chief Oga Ero (CP Rtd.), will serve as the Royal Father of the Day. At the same time, former economic adviser to the president, Prof. Ode Ojowu, is the Father of the Day.

The statement explained that AIMP is the umbrella body of Igede professionals working across the print, broadcast and digital media sectors in Nigeria, with a mission to promote credible leadership, accountability, constructive dialogue and the preservation of the cultural heritage of the Igede people.

The statement reads in parts, “Our public lecture with the theme ‘Rethinking Political Leadership Recruitment System in Igedeland Ahead of 2027’ is a forum for a robust, honest dialogue and exchange of ideas by patriotic sons and daughters of Igede nation towards ensuring the emergence of only credible political leaders across all strata of governance to serve Igede people.”

The destiny of any community is greatly influenced by the kind of political leaders elected by the people or appointed to represent them in public or political positions responsible for service delivery to society; hence the need to brainstorm to shape the best outcome for next year’s general election.

The lecture, therefore, is a platform for intellectual engagement by respected leaders of thought, policymakers, professionals, technocrats, community stakeholders, youths, and women towards a merit-driven leadership for the sustainable development of our people.

The Association of Igede Media Professionals aims to use the power of the media to drive credible leadership, accountability, inspire constructive dialogue for positive changes and development, as well as preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Igede nation.”