It is common knowledge that unemployed individuals are vulnerable to facing several challenges. These challenges worsen the longer a person is unemployed.
The Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia acknowledged this when he was sworn in as the sixth executive governor of Benue state. He promised to do everything within his legitimate powers to ensure the youth of the state who acquired both formal and informal education are being gainfully engaged.
True to his pledge, Benue is currently witnessing a remarkable volt-face with significant leap in job creation, specifically for the youth.
The Alia-led administration’s all-purpose approach is not only addressing unemployment, but also enhancing a sense of optimism and opportunity among the younger population.
One of the most impressive drives has been the resuscitation of the Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH). Headed by a versatile professional, Dr. Stephen Hwande, the tertiary healthcare facility recently employed over 500 qualified youths, enhancing healthcare delivery in the state. The facility has now become a medical tourism centre, generating great revenue for the state. In addition to improving healthcare services, it also provides the much-needed jobs, allowing young professionals, both experienced and fresh graduates, to contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Moreover, the Benue Investment and Property Company (BIPC) is prominently creating jobs in the state. Under the leadership of Dr. Raymond Asemakaha, BIPC has established several factories, these include a bakery, a water factory, and a polythene and nylon printing factory. The BIPC Water Expansion Factory and BIPC Nails Ltd are also set to contribute greatly to the state’s economic development. These factories are collectively projected to generate over 700 direct and indirect jobs, further diminishing youth idleness.
In a matter of days, Premium Lager Beer will be launched. This is another subsidiary of BIPC and it promises to create hundreds of additional job opportunities for the youth of the state. This enterprise is tipped to attract a youthful workforce, providing them with a chance to engage in a flourishing industry.
Furthermore, Benue State is currently a construction site, with road works, renovations of schools and healthcare facilities taking place simultaneously across the state. This construction boom has opened doors for professionals such as engineers, architects, builders, and various artisans, enabling them to earn legitimate incomes. The foresighted efforts taken by the state government have rejuvenated local economies and provided stability for many families.
A few months ago, the Benue State Digital Infrastructure Services Management Enforcement Agency (BEDISMEA) through the permission of the governor, recruited a technical team of no fewer than 300 ICT specialists.
Moreso, the state government in partnership with Google recently trained 10,000 youths in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) across the state. The initiative has already empowered the young people and provides them with the skills necessary to thrive in the digital economy.
Meanwhile, in an obvious and ambitious plan, Governor Alia has directed the employment of over 9,000 teachers for both primary and secondary education. This initiative aims to enhance the quality of education in the state while simultaneously providing job opportunities for young graduates seeking careers in teaching.
Governor Alia’s steadfastness to job creation and youth empowerment has endeared him to the younger demographic of Benue State. The governor’s affable nature is apparent as he walks through streets and markets without fear of harassment, an uncommon feat for political leaders in the region. His unwavering commitment to uplifting the youth has earned him a reputation as a messiah among many, promoting a sense of oneness and trust.
The Alia administration is already miles ahead making tangible progress in mopping off idleness in Benue State.
Through job creation drive in healthcare, industrial expansion, construction, and education, the governor is not ordinarily addressing unemployment but also ingrain assurance among the youth. With these projects coming to fruition, the state is poised for a brighter future, one where the dreams and ambitions of its young people can thrive.
–Kula, the chief press secretary to the governor of Benue State, sent this piece from Makurdi
