Alia Performing Musicians (APM) Honours Hon Emmanuel Shimawua With Meritorious Award In Makurdi

The Alia Performing Musicians (APM) gathered on Thursday, 4th June 2026, at the Makurdi residence of Hon. Emmanuel Terna Shimawua, Member Representing KYAN State Constituency in the Benue State House of Assembly. The visit was to honour his credible performance in office and celebrate his emergence as the APC flag bearer for KYAN State Constituency ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The event was marked by heartfelt congratulations, music, and a strong sense of unity as APM members turned out in large numbers to show their support and appreciation.

Speaking at the event, APM President Mrs. Queen Bridget Saakaan expressed gratitude to Hon. Shimawua for his unwavering support and kind-hearted nature. She described him as a man of integrity who has consistently stood by the creative community, especially performing artists in Benue State. She noted that his emergence as APC flag bearer reflects his dedication and the positive impact he has made during three years as a state legislator.

Mrs. Saakaan stressed the importance of having leaders who understand youth empowerment and investment in the creative sector. She called on other public officials to emulate his humility and willingness to engage with the grassroots, particularly those in arts and entertainment.

Presenting the "DEFENDER OF DEMOCRACY Award" to Hon. Shimawua on behalf of the group, APM Patron Chief Hon. Dr. Dennis Akura, former Executive Chairman of Vandeikya LGA, described him as a vibrant, tested, and trusted leader. He called on party leaders, elders, stakeholders, youths, women, traditional rulers, and religious leaders to canvass for Hon. Shimawua’s re-election. 

Chief Akura noted that Hon. Shimawua has supported the policies of the Governor Alia administration, including the establishment of the University of Agriculture, Science and Technology in Ihugh, Vandeikya LGA, within KYAN Constituency. He declared the group’s total support for his second-term bid and urged all stakeholders in KYAN to back him and His Excellency Rev Fr Dr Hyacinth Iormem Alia, (Asortar U Tiv)

In his response, Hon. Emmanuel Shimawua thanked the APM team for the honour and warm reception. He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the programmes of Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia across the state and pledged continued backing for the creative sector. 

As Chairman of the House Committee on Local Government, Security, and Chieftaincy Affairs, he stated that performing artists are vital contributors to the state’s economy and cultural heritage, not just entertainers. He pledged to work closely with stakeholders to ensure sustainable growth and opportunities for all.

Dignitaries present during the ceremony were; Hon. Thomas Dugeri, Majority Leader, Benue State House of Assembly; Chief Hon. Dr. Dennis Akura, S.A. to the Governor on Economic Planning; Hon. Solomon Igyila, Member Representing Gwer West; Hon. Elias Audu, Member Representing Gwer East; Hon. Shimapever Jiji of Logo State Constituency; Hon. Livinus Ujaimatyu SA to the Governor on Local Government and Chieftaincy affairs; Mrs. Dugeri; Hon Hillary Nyitor; Comr James Achir; Comr Msabe Solomon, YAN Speaker; Comr Ayila Iorwuese; and representatives of Achusa neighbourhood among others.

Highlights of the event included performances by APM artists and the presentation of APC solidarity songs and dances in support of Governor Alia and Hon. Shimawua. Congratulations Hon Shimawua Emmanuel Terna.

HON SHIMAWUA MEDIA TEAM.