It is a mid-term review like no other in Benue State’s history. It is a massive tour of projects that touch every aspect of Benue State development, guided by two public giants: a former information minister, Hon Labaran Maku, and a former director general of the country’s orientation agency, Hon Mike Omeri.
It is a testament to the governor of the state, Rev. Fr Hyacinth Iormem Alia’s commitment to service, prudence, responsibility, and accountability. He has spent two wonderful years in the service of the state—two years of unprecedented and exceptional leadership—two years that have revolutionised agricultural development, healthcare, education, youth empowerment, the public service system, industries, and every aspect that drives growth.
The assessment tour began with projects from different sectors of the economy in the state, for the country, and the wider world.
Change is an inevitable force in the governance journey—a decisive shift from outdated practices to a forward-thinking vision that prioritises the collective well-being of the citizenry. The election of His Excellency, Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia, in 2023 signalled this transformative moment for Benue State. It was a mandate for progress, innovation, and restoration, an opportunity to rewrite the narrative of underdevelopment and unleash the state’s full potential.
Since assuming office, Governor Alia has charted a clear and ambitious course for Benue State, focusing on sustainable development, infrastructural renewal, and efficient governance. Despite challenges and criticisms often accompanying bold leadership, his administration remains undeterred in its mission to uplift the state and deliver on the promise of progress.
First, the dynamic and indefatigable executive chairman of SUBEB, Dr Grace Adagba, is driving this remarkable vision into reality. He commended His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr Hyacinth, former Alia, the executive governor of Benue State, for his unwavering commitment to transforming basic education.
She said under his visionary leadership, in less than two years, we have recorded significant milestones, including:
Renovation and construction of over 253 school infrastructures.
Over 13,347 classroom furniture items were provided in schools, water facilities were installed in 66 schools, and WASH facilities were installed in 156 schools. Introduction of a transparent e-payment system for accountability. Training of over 6,069 basic education teachers, supply of instructional materials and modern teaching aids Establishment of both digital and non-digital libraries to boost literacy. Revival of sports and creative arts in public schools. Recruitment of over 9,000 teachers through a transparent CBT process.
Steady payment of salaries and pensions to boost staff morale. Implementation of a new N75,000 minimum wage.
Construction of modern-storey buildings with whiteboards replacing chalkboards.
Restoration of nursery sections in public schools across the state She stated that these achievements were in all LGAs and clearly indicate what is possible when political will aligns with institutional action.
In the sector, the director general of the Benue State Bureau for Education Quality Assurance (BEQA), Dr. Terna Francis, also outlined the administration’s achievements in education quality assurance as it clocks two years.
He noted that school monitoring and evaluation were prioritised.
The monitoring exercise focused on the following key areas:
-Curriculum: The quality of the curriculum used by schools. -Teacher Attendance: Level of attendance to lessons by teachers. -Teacher Qualifications: Minimum teaching qualifications of teachers (NCE). -School Records: Use of approved standard school records.
-E-Dossiers Policy: Implementation of the state government’s e-dossiers policy.
-School Census: All schools are to enrol in the School Census initiative-School Approval: Obtaining approval before operating schools and -External Examinations: Only approved fees to be paid by parents for WAEC, NECO and NABTEB
-Unethical Practices: Mandating schools to present goats, yams and N100,000 by some persons who claim to be from the Ministry of Education and Knowledge Management
He also said a partnership between Novus Microfinance Bank and the Benue State Bureau for Education Quality Assurance (BEQA) promises to significantly improve the quality of education in Benue State. This collaboration has resulted in the launch of the Schools Improvement Loan Scheme (SILS), offering financial assistance to private school proprietors. This initiative aims to empower private school owners by providing them with the necessary resources to upgrade their facilities, enhance teaching methods, and ultimately improve the learning experience for pupils and students.
Governor Alia’s foresight and bold leadership have created the enabling environment for this success story.
For Human Capital Development, the Benue Links Nigeria Limited Gov. Hyacinth Alia of Benue has resuscitated the state-owned transport company, Benue Links, by providing 100 new buses and expanding its services into haulage and water transportation.
The state commissioner for power, renewable energy, and transport, Mr Omale Omale, stated this while addressing newsmen in Makurdi on Alia’s achievements within two years in office.
He said the company was in a comatose state when the governor assumed office, with plans by the previous administration to sell it off.
“The governor halted the sale of the company and prioritised the revitalisation of the transport system.
“Benue Links was on the verge of collapse, but Governor Alia intervened by providing 100 new buses to support intra- and inter-state transportation,” Omale said.
According to him, the intervention led to transformation in the company’s operations, including upgrades at its terminals, diversification into haulage and mini-bus services, and the acquisition of a permanent terminal in Abuja.
Tikyaa, principal special assistant to the governor on Media, Publicity, and Communication Strategy, writes from Makurdi, Benue State
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