Jir, Kwaghgba Attend Buruku Day Celebration

By Terfa Naswem 

Earlier today, the Benue State Commissioner for Transportation, Power and Renewable Energy, Hon. Joseph Tet Jir with the Chairman of Benue State Internal Revenue Services (BIRS), Hon. Joseph Kwaghgba attended BURUKU DAY celebration 2026.

The event was organised by Buruku Development Association in conjunction with Buruku Traditional Council held at Tombo Community Secondary School, Buruku LGA, Benue State.

He expressed delight for the organisation of the event, stating that such an annual event reunites the people of Buruku and beyond which is the recipe for development and fostering peace and unity against all odds.

Hon. Kwaghgba reinstated his commitment to the progress of Buruku where he is married. He commended the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia for the appointments he gave in Buruku and the good work he is doing for the development of Benue State.

He gave cash donation in support of the association's projects they intend to execute and assured them of his support in the near future.

Agah Has The Concomitant Of Leadership To Represent Mata State Constituency

By Terfa Naswem 

As Mata State Constituency searches for a representative that has the concomitant of all-inclusive representation, the searchlights point at Hon.  Dr. Daniel Tordue Agah; a man whose penchant for progress and development is top-notch.

Mata State Constituency is seriously begging for attention as it has over the years suffered so much infrastructural deficits and the empowerment of constituents being neglected.

Just like Benjamin Rush (1745–1813) who was a foundational American leader, physician, and social reformer whose leadership philosophy was deeply rooted in Enlightenment rationalism, Christian benevolence, and civic republicanism. Dr. Agah follows his footsteps not only as a social reformer but also enlightenment rationalism, Christian benevolence, and civic republicanism. He believes that the people of Mata State Constituency need to be placed on the trajectory of development through these cardinal points which he has the concomitant to do them but needs to be elected to represent the people of Mata at the Benue State House of Assembly, BSHoA where he'll have the wherewithal for all-inclusive representation through his probity and prudence. Just like Rush, Agah's approach to leadership emphasized moral integrity, education, and the proactive, often aggressive, pursuit of public good, viewing representative leadership as a duty to improve society, reform institutions, and foster human potential.

Those from Mata State Constituency of Ushongo Local Government Area of Benue State who have not registered as members of All Progressives Congress (APC) should do so for them to be qualified to vote for him in the forthcoming direct primaries.

If they don't have voters cards too, they should go to the nearest INEC office and register to obtain theirs so that they will vote for Dr. Agah after he wins his primary election on the platform of APC.

Jir Extols Gov. Alia For Repositioning Benue

... Calls on supporters to get their voters' cards, APC e-registration membership cards

By Terfa Naswem 

Benue State Commissioner for Transportation, Power and Renewable Energy, Hon. Joseph Ter Jir extols the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia for repositioning Benue State on the trajectory of unprecedented development.

He is extremely impressed with the tremendous impact Gov. Alia is making on the people of Benue State, stating that those who are hellbent on propelling activities that will impinge on the progressive roadmap of Gov. Alia for Benue State will never succeed.

It is incontrovertible that since 1999, Benue State has never witnessed this kind of development which hitherto was only in the illusions of Benue indigenes. Hon. Jir notes that Alia is not a neophyte in progressive leadership and has surmounted most of the impediments in his government which made the completed and ongoing projects possible.

In ensuring that Gov. Alia continues with his good work for Benue State, Hon. Jir appeals to supporters of Alia who don't have voters' cards to go to the nearest INEC office and register to obtain theirs so that they will be able to reelect Alia.

Since the new electoral law has made emphasis on direct primaries and consensus, expunging delegates participation, he urged supporters of Alia to register as All Progressives Congress (APC) members through e-registration which is expected to continue after the congresses are completed.

He said if they obtain their APC e-membership cards, they will be qualified to participate in the direct primaries to give Alia the go-ahead as the candidate of APC for his reelection including others.

Jir Donates In Support Of NKST Isako

... Says nothing should be too small or big in support of God's work.

By Terfa Naswem 

Benue State Commissioner for Transportation, Power and Renewable Energy, Hon. Joseph Ter Jir on  commended NKST Church Isako, Wannyam Classis, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State for making significant impact on the lives of members, immediate community, Ukum and Benue State through its impactful gospel.

He made the commendation on Sunday, 1st February, 2026 during the Thanksgiving service, dedication and commissioning of the church building and celebration of numerous projects by the church.

In complementing the good work NKST Isako is doing, he made a cash donation, and promised to give the church a transformer and install solar lights in strategic positions within the church premises.

Hon. Jir encouraged christians to always support financially and materially to the service of God and should not consider anything too small or too big to give for the work of God in spreading the gospel for salvation to be obtained.

In commending the administration of the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, he made it lucid that the governor has the people of Ukum and Sankara at heart and will continue to do his best to ensure that peace, unity and development strive in the area against all odds.

The President of NKST Worldwide, Rev. Dr. (Amb.) N. A. Adure JP expressed his delight for the honour given to the church and extended his profound gratitude to Hon. Jir for honouring the invitation as chairman and making huge cash donation and other things to the development of the church.

Similarly, Rev. Pastor Ioryem Amokaha who delivered the sermon commended Hon. Jir for supporting the church and prayed to God to continue to guide and protect him and grant him all his heart desires.

Hon. Jir was accompanied to the service and event by one of his best friends, Comr. Samuel Ternenge Ikyegh, Director Samanas and Chairman, National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Branch II Gboko, Benue State.

Mku Hails Participants Of First Edition Of King Of Boys Unity Football Tournament

... Congratulates Mighty Juniors FC for winning the trophy, including Fidei FC, Amaledu FC and Flight FC for their positions respectively 

By Moses Terkimbir Bamshagu,  Terfa Naswem 

Hon. Aondover Mku, the son of the former Benue State gubernatorial aspirant and former senatorial candidate, Hon. Mike Mku, the sponsor of the first edition of King of Boys Unity Football Tournament congratulates Mighty Juniors FC for winning the trophy in the 2025 first edition of the competition.

The competition which began in December 2025 had its final match played on Sunday, 11th January, 2026 at J.S. Tarka Stadium, Gboko, Benue State, which Mighty Juniors FC emerged winner over Fidei Polytechnic FC which ended in a draw before Mighty Juniors won on penalties.

Hon. Aondover Mku, represented by his uncle, Mr. Aule Aul Mku said the tournament was a platform to foster unity amongst youths who are the drivers of progress and development in our fast-changing society where evil is fighting hard to suppress fairness, justice and equity.

The chairman of the organising committee, Mr. Alex Imbul was extremely impressed with the performance of all the teams that participated in the tournament. He extended his profound gratitude to Hon. Aondover Mku for sponsoring the tournament which made the organising and presentation of prizes possible.

A total price of N2 million was given to the champions, runners-up, third-place team, and fourth-place team as follows: Mighty Juniors FC, ₦1,000,000; Fidei Polytechnic FC, ₦500,000; Amaledu FC, ₦300,000 and Flight FC, ₦200,000 respectively.

Some of the dignitaries who attended the match were: Barr  Ashiekaa, SAN, Engr. Zendesha, Chichi Ageeter, Asue Terhile, Iorwase Atsue, Ihii Solomon, Adule Victor and Jeff Awaikyo.

Igbogo Hosts His Second Football Tournament At Mbawar, Appeals For Peace And Unity

By Cephas Dantsoho, Terfa Naswem 

As a result of his love for sports and social gatherings in fostering peace, love, unity and development, the people of Wuese, Gaav, Mbawar Council Ward in Konshisha Local Government Area of Benue State witnessed an atmosphere of excitement and unity as Engr. Japhet Igbogo successfully organized a community football tournament that brought together youths, sports lovers, and residents from within and around the area. The much-anticipated final match of the tournament was played on Tuesday, 23rd December, 2025 at NKST Secondary School, Wuese, Mbawar, Konshisha marking the climax of weeks of competitive football and community engagement.

The tournament, which kicked off earlier in December, was aimed at promoting grassroots sports development, fostering unity among youths, and encouraging positive social interaction within the community. Teams from different neighborhoods participated, displaying remarkable talent, teamwork, and sportsmanship throughout the competition.

Speaking during the final match, Engr. Japhet Igbogo emphasized the importance of sports as a tool for youth empowerment and peace-building. He noted that football has the power to unite people beyond social, cultural, and economic differences, and described the tournament as part of his commitment to supporting youth development and community growth in Wuese Gaav.

The final match, played on Tuesday, attracted a large crowd of enthusiastic supporters, community leaders, and football fans who turned out to cheer their teams. The game was highly competitive and entertaining, reflecting the high level of preparation and determination shown by the finalists. Security and organization were well coordinated, ensuring a peaceful and enjoyable event for all attendees.

At the end of the match, awards and recognitions were presented to outstanding teams and players for their performances during the tournament. Engr. Igbogo commended all participating teams for their discipline and resilience, while also appreciating the organizing committee, match officials, and supporters for contributing to the success of the event.

Community members expressed gratitude to Engr. Japhet Igbogo for sponsoring and organizing the tournament, describing it as timely and impactful. Many called for the competition to become an annual event, citing its role in discovering local talent, reducing youth restiveness, and strengthening community bonds.

The successful conclusion of the Wuese Gaav football tournament on Tuesday stands as a testament to the positive impact of sports-driven initiatives and highlights Engr. Japhet Igbogo’s dedication to community development through meaningful and inclusive programmes.

Recall that in April, 2025, Igbogo hosted his first Unity Cup for Mbawar which the final match was played on 17th May, 2025 at the football field of NKST Secondary School, Wuese-Gaav, Mbawar, as Young Stars Football Club Wuese defeated Super Stars Alabesa on penalties after the match ended in 2-2 draw.

The tournament played recently was his second as Mbawar defeated Mbatem by 2-0.  Igbogo has a burning desire to organize subsequent tournaments on a wider coverage where all council wards in Konshisha will participate.

Igbogo assured his people that he is determined elicit unending happiness from them through various programmes and initiatives that will be all-inclusive for men, youth, women and children if he will be elected in 2027 to represent Konshisha State Constituency in the Benue State House of Assembly.

Just like Thomas Jefferson, the 3rd President of the United States of America, Igbogo believes that the welfare of the whole is the proper purpose of representative democracy, which takes development to the grassroots and at the same time, creates  communication channels that connect those at the grassroots to the state government in effectively expressing their concerns in times of challenges and pouring out plaudits in times of commendable impact made by the government.

C.D. Akran’s Vision of Community Development and Badagry’s Future, By Ṣeun Williams

By Ṣeun Sedẹ Williams 

The address delivered by Ahọlu Claudius Dosa Akran at the 1961 International Conference on Community Development held in Seoul, South Korea, represents a crucial historical artefact for understanding both the ideological foundations of postcolonial Nigerian development and the potential pathways toward addressing contemporary Badagry’s underdevelopment. As both the Akran of Badagry and Western Nigeria’s Minister of Economic Planning and Community Development, his position embodied a unique blend of traditional authority and modern governance that gave his development philosophy particular authenticity and practical grounding. His ideas, which are released along with this essay, remain remarkably relevant for contemporary Badagry because they anticipated the tensions between local agency and external intervention that continue to undermine development projects across Nigeria.

Akran defined community development as a movement designed to promote voluntary participation, with heavy reliance on local initiative, supported by technical services that encourage rather than replace self-help. This definition explicitly rejected the colonial approach, where British development officers imposed projects like a wealthy father instructing his children about what was good for them. Under colonialism, Akran observed, community development existed separately from actual community life, neither influencing nor influenced by the organic history of the villages themselves. The result was abandoned infrastructure, from unused latrines to neglected roads, because communities felt no ownership over projects imposed from above. His critique also extended to dictatorial models where visible progress comes through compulsion, arguing that such approaches fundamentally contradict the civil liberties essential to genuine development.

Adapted from "The Concept ofCommunity Development in Western Nigeria and Its
Historical Perspective" By C.D. Akran

What makes Akran’s framework historiographically significant is his insistence on rooting modern development in local structures and grassroots institutions. He identified indigenous systems like communal farm clearing, age-grade task assignments, and Esusu savings groups as foundations requiring only slight updates to serve contemporary development goals. This sharply departed from 1960s modernisation thinking, which typically viewed traditional structures as obstacles requiring wholesale replacement. Akran instead articulated what social scientists today call participatory development, recognising decades in advance that sustainable development must build upon rather than demolish existing social networks and practices.

Adapted from "The Concept of Community Development in
Western Nigeria and Its Historical Perspective" By C.D. Akran

Akran’s practical innovations in Western Nigeria demonstrate his philosophy in action. The literacy campaign model shared responsibility among village committees, local government councils, and regional government, with each level contributing distinct resources while maintaining local ownership. Training camps and youth club movements deliberately combined civic education with traditional cultural forms. Akran’s system of dividing Western Nigeria into blocks of ten villages, each developing consensus-based plans through assemblies where villagers met with technical experts, represented remarkable bottom-up planning for its era. These plans would aggregate upward into divisional, circle, and ultimately regional frameworks, ensuring that overall development responded to local priorities.

For contemporary Badagry, grappling with infrastructural deficits, youth unemployment, and political marginalisation relative to other parts of Lagos, Akran’s framework offers critical insights. First, his emphasis on voluntary participation and indigenous initiative suggests that Badagry’s challenges cannot be solved through state-imposed megaprojects alone, however well-intentioned. Rather, true development must activate existing community structures, from traditional institutions and community development associations to civil society organisations and women’s societies, as well as youth groups and student unions. Second, Akran’s focus on leadership training and civic education through institutions like youth clubs and adult literacy campaigns points toward human capital development founded on cultural continuity. Third, his model of development financing, where communities provide labour and land while government offers technical expertise and partial funding support, creates genuine partnership and ensures local ownership.

Adapted from "The Concept of Community Development in
Western Nigeria and Its Historical Perspective" By C.D. Akran

Practical recommendations flowing from Akran’s vision would involve establishing community development blocks across Badagry Division, facilitated by thought leaders who could connect communities with relevant expertise. Each block would develop participatory plans identifying local needs and available resources, with government providing matching grants rather than fully funded projects. Youth organisations could be revitalised around both cultural preservation and modern skills, following Akran’s model of arts festivals celebrating indigenous heritage while preparing young people for contemporary economic participation. Adult education could expand beyond basic literacy to include entrepreneurship, civic engagement, and leadership development, delivered through community institutions rather than external agencies.

Perhaps most importantly, Akran’s framework insists that Badagry’s development must emerge from within, building upon its unique historical experiences, cultural resources, and institutional capacities. His warning that development champions must become celebrants of the marriage between old institutions and new knowledge remains profoundly relevant. Too often, contemporary development initiatives in Badagry have replicated the colonial pattern Akran critiqued, imposing external visions without adequate consultation or integration with local realities. Reviving his vision means trusting Badagry’s communities to identify their priorities, mobilise their resources, and drive their own development when provided with genuine partnership rather than paternalistic intervention.

This approach requires patience and political will, but as Ahọlu C.D. Akran understood from his dual position as traditional ruler and modern minister, sustainable development admits no shortcuts around authentic community ownership.

Download "The Concept of Community Development in Western Nigeria and Its Historical Perspective,”  By Aholu C. D. Akran

Ṣeun Williams, PhD, Assistant Professor in One Health, University College Dublin, writes from Republic of Ireland 

Igbogo Hosts Christmas Celebration With Elders In Konshisha

... Appreciates them for their efforts in rebuilding Konshisha 

By Terfa Naswem 

In his alacrity to put smiles on the faces of many and his love for the people of Konshisha, one of the frontline contenders for the seat to represent Konshisha State Constituency at Benue State House of Assembly, BSHoA., has begun Christmas celebration with elders in Konshisha.

The meeting took place on Sunday, 21st December, 2025 at the residence of Dr. Simon Gesa in Tongo, Konshisha Local Government Area of Benue State.

A cow, bags of rice and cash were given to them in the spirit of the celebration, stating that, in spite of not being in government yet, the items were signs of his enormous love for them, and will surely work collectively with them to rebuild Konshisha if he will be elected in 2027.

He commended the elders in Konshisha who are community and nation builders in reshaping divisive ideologies and redirecting steps on a progressive path.

Igbogo was represented at the meeting by his elder brother, Comr. Tivkaa Tertsea who interfaced with him and the elders in ensuring a smooth meeting.

Dr. Gesa, the Chairman of APC Elders' Council in Konshisha commended Igbogo for his exceptional display of love for his people. He affirmed that his gesture of goodwill, despite not yet elected indicated that he will carry the people of Konshisha along in his collective representative leadership ideology.

In reaffirming the statement by Dr. Gesa on Igbogo, Elder Wese Mbatyovde eulogized Igbogo as an aspirant who has decided to play his politics in a very peaceful manner devoid of any divisive statements or elements that ignite acrimony.

The All Progressives Congress (APC), Chairman of Mbawar and ALGON Chairman, Hon. Ishu Jacob Aondona appreciated Igbogo for carrying them along even when he has not yet been elected, believing that he will do wonderfully if he will be elected in 2027.

Elder Solomon Ahar while extolling Igbogo for remembering them in the Christmas celebration, commended him for the potent impact he has made on the lives of many children, youths, women and elders in Konshisha and beyond.

He prayed that the infallible God should continue to give him the wisdom and strength to do more and grant him all his heart desires.

Elder Kindan Zege was not left out in the euphoria of plaudits for Igbogo as he stated some of the good deeds he has exhibited which benefited the people of Konshisha.

Ihongo, Mato, Baaki, Akura Adamu, Others Donate For Church Rebuilding Project In Konshisha

... Mato assures them of more support for the completion of the project 

By Terfa Naswem, Apaa Tindim

The Pointman of the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia in Vandeikya Local Government Area, Alhaji Abubakar Aseer Ihongo, Former member of the House of Representatives for Vandeikya/Konshisha Federal Constituency in Benue State, Rt. Hon. Mrs. Dorathy Mato, the Chairman, All Progressives Congress (APC) Elders' Forum, Iorpuu Baaki and others made donations for rebuilding of Christ the King Church, Ayila in Konshisha Local Government Area of Benue State.

In the Sunday Mass on 30th November, 2025 officiated by Rev. Fr. Godwin Okoh Omanga, various donations were made to rebuild Christ the King Church, Ayia, Konshisha under Our Lady of the Benue Rectory, Anyorikyo, Wuese, Konshisha.

Ihongo said they once contributed to the building of the church which was destroyed by natural causes, hence, the need for making another donation for the rebuilding.

Hon. Mato commended Fr. Omanga for the significant impact he has made in ensuring that the church rebuilding project gets the needed attention to bring to completion.

Dr. Dennis Akura, Special Advisor to the Governor of Benue State on Financial and Economic Strategy, planning and Development expressed his delight in the commitment exhibited by Fr. Omanga and said they will do the needful to take the project to completion.

Hon. Iorpuu Baaki was not in attendance since he was carrying out an assignment for the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, so he sent his donation through Ihongo to the church.

The Chairman of the Muslim Pilgrim Welfare Board in Benue State, Alhaji Abubakar Adamu who was invited by Ihongo alongside some of his friends made huge donations for the project.

Others invited by Hon. Ihongo who donated were: Dr. Vincent Gisaor, Secretary, Benue State Independent Electoral Commission (BSIEC), Elder Yawe Igo Joseph, GLO Vandeikya; Hon. D.T. Jeiyor, former supervisor, Vandeikya), Dr. Dennis Terpase Nomor, Associate Professor of Economics;  Hon. Fanyam Simon Msughter, Denen Yough, APC Chairman, Tsambe, Vandeikya; Hon. Abuul Samuel Terumbur, APC Chairman, Mbakaange; Chiv Terseer Francis, Ihongo Alexander, Principal, Government Girls College, Makurdi, Benue State.

Ihongo Consoles Ter Kunav Over Loss Of His Wife

... Prays God to grant him and his family the fortitude to bear their irreparable loss

By Terfa Naswem 

The Pointman of the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia in Vandeikya Local Government Area, Alhaji Abubakar Aseer Ihongo on Friday , 28th November, 2025  bid farewell to late HRH Betty Mbapirin Achiaku, wife of Ter Kunav HRH Josephus Nyiyongo Achiaku, and console Ter Kunav and his entire family for the loss.

He commended Betty for the exceptional woman she was while on planet earth, stressing that those she made impact positively on their lives will forever remain grateful.

He deeply consoled Ter Kunav to always take solace in God Almighty who is the giver and taker of live, and prayed God to give him and his entire family the fortitude to bear their irreparable loss.

She was born on 1st May, 1962 and died on 19th November, 2025 at age 63. She was buried at HRH Josephus Nyiyongo Achiaku's compound, Branch Atser, Ningev, Vandeikya, Benue State.

Mato Bids Farewell To Late Elizabeth Mku

... Prays God To Console Mku's Family

By Terfa Naswem 

Former member of the House of Representatives for Vandeikya/Konshisha Federal Constituency in Benue State, Rt. Hon. Mrs. Dorathy Mato bids farewell to Deaconess Elizabeth Terseer Mku whose body was laid to rest on Wednesday, 26th November, 2025 at her hometown in Yandev, Gboko, Benue State.

Mato extends her deepest condolences to Hon. Mike Mku, the husband of late Elizabeth and his entire family over their irreplaceable loss. She reechoed the impact Elizabeth made while on planet earth, stating that her good deeds will always be remembered.

She prayed God Almighty to grant the family the fortitude to bear their irreparable loss.

Late Mrs. Elizabeth Terseer Mku was born on 17th February, 1954 and died on 4th November, 2025 at age 71.

Goodwill Message To Gemade As He Celebrates Golden Age

I, Engr Japhet Terlumun Igbogo heartily identify with my dear brother Mr Vandefan Gemade on his 50th birth anniversary and wish him well as he attains the golden height.

I believe it's God Almighty through his infinite mercy, grace and love that has protected and brought you this far, and it's worthy to join you return the honour in every situation, activities and equally pray for more to your life and future endeavours.

My dear brother, as you plan to join your people to celebrate with the youth, less privileged and the larger community at home, I pray God gives you the strength, long and a prosperous life, enormous wisdom and a healthier life.

I also pray for your success at this age feat, now and beyond dear brother, hearty cheers!

Signed!

Engr Japhet Terlumun Igbogo,

Konshisha State House of Assembly Hopeful, 2027.

Ogun Police Command Deploy Tactical Teams On Surveillance Operation In Ajebo Community

… assures residents of public safety

The Ogun State Police Command has reassured residents of Ajebo community in Obafemi-Owode Local Government that there is no imminent threat of attack in the area following a viral video circulating on social media that herdsmen are preparing to unleash violence on the host community.

The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, deployed the Command’s tactical team, led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations) to assess security situation in the area, in conjunction with Amotekun Corps, So-Safe Corps, Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), local hunters and Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) to undertake thorough intelligence-led assessment in and around Ajebo community.

The operatives discovered the Fulani settlers in Ajebo are not hostile migrants but long-standing residents, living peacefully within the community. Children and women were seen in their temporary shelters but no arms or suspicious activities were detected. No adult male was present. The men had travelled to Oyo State for trading activities, which is consistent with their routine economic pattern. A further sweep of the settlement revealed an extended RUGA location that has reportedly been in existence for over ten years.

The Kabiyesi, Oba Rueben Oluwole, who is said to have authorized the allocation of land to the settlers, has been invited for clarification. Additionally, the Baale of Alapako, where another cluster of Fulani huts were identified, has also been invited for a meeting with the Commissioner of Police.

The combined team of security agencies is maintaining surveillance within the forest area, approximately 10km from the main community. Their presence is strictly precautionary, as the settlers were found to be unarmed and living peacefully.

The Ogun State Police Command reassures members of the public that proactive intelligence measures remain fully in place, and citizens are advised to remain calm, vigilant, and to avoid sharing unverified information capable of inciting fear.

Mato Now PPFN Petron, Benue State Chapter

By Dan Ingbar 

Planned Parenthood Federation of Nigeria, PPFN  has presented letter of pethronship to Rt Hon. Mrs Dorathy Mato from Benue state.

Acting Regional Coordinator for North Central Nigeria, Abdullahi Muhammed Muregi in company of the Mrs Magdaline Shingel, program officer services delivery, North Central Nigeria and Mrs Sarah Igbian, Benue state  Chairperson Adult volunteers, made the presentation yesterday in Gboko.

Speaking during the event, Muhammad Muregi said, Mrs Mato's nomination to be on board will strengthen Benue state chapter which has witnessed retrogression the past few years 

The Coordinator explained that, patrons are next authority to trustees and  Mato's track record as a mobilizer, community developer with  network and institutions as well reverage is a sure bridge to save more lives in the state.

He futher informed that, PPFN will partner Fidei Polytechnic, Gboko so as to educate students  on  health benefits accrued from the Federal ministry of health.

Pointing futher that,  PPFN is known for provision  of family planning services, counseling on Hiv/Aids, Malaria, sourcing of grants to save lives and impacting IDPs while also serving as major link for donor agencies  like UNICEF among others. The coming on board of credible personalities from Benue will be of immense benefits to women and people of the state 

The Coordinator solicited the assistance of Mrs Mato to enable the organization procure a state secretariat, Which according to him, is mostly provided by state governors including Plateau, Niger, Kogi among others.

Responding, Rt. Hon.Mrs Dorathy Mato appreciated the body for finding her worthy of a patron.

In her words, "all of my life I have been into charity work and by the grace of God, I have institutions that parade capable hands so would strive to drive forward the intention of PPFN for Benue state.

She accepted to honor their invitation for formal decoration at Abuja during national executive council meeting .

She promised to assist them in the quest to have a state secretariat in Makurdi but personally promised to donate land in Vandeikya and office accommodation in Gboko for effective operation of PPFN in the areas.

Gov Alia Expresses Benue’s Readiness For Full Agricultural Mechanization

By Tersoo Kula

Governor Hyacinth Alia  has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to achieving full agricultural mechanization in Benue State, beginning with the dry-season farming programme scheduled to commence in December 2025.

The governor gave the assurance on Monday during an inspection visit to the Bureau of Agricultural Development and Mechanization, where he assessed ongoing work at the tractor and equipment assembly plant.

During the visit, Governor Alia inspected 41 newly assembled tractors of various brands and capacities, ranging from 25hp to 95hp alongside several complementary farm implements, including combine harvesters, different types of threshers, planters/fertilizer applicators, excavators, and yam mounders, among others.

He reiterated his resolve to sustain the Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement entered into by the state government with Mass International & Equipment Nigeria Limited (SABASPAC Int’l Ltd.), the tripartite private-sector partner in the initiative.

According to the governor, the partnership is an initiative of the Bureau for Entrepreneurship and Wealth Creation, led by Ms. Benita Shuluwa, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security. The Agribusiness Mechanization Centre operates from the premises of the Bureau of Agricultural Development and Mechanization.

Governor Alia noted that the collaboration is already yielding gains, with over 900 youths trained in tractor assembly and modern agricultural best practices.

He also inspected demonstration farms within the facility, showcasing smart seedlings of crops including papaya, cocoa, rice, and oil palm.

The governor directed the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security to ensure that all government-owned agricultural lands are immediately earmarked for the planting and replanting of improved seedlings of oranges, mangoes, and key grains such as guinea corn, wheat, barley, and sorghum.

Governor Alia further encouraged Benue farmers to take advantage of the improved seedlings already available at the Bureau of Agricultural Development and Mechanization, stressing that enhanced inputs are crucial to the state’s agricultural transformation agenda.

Sir Tersoo Kula, mnipr is the Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia.

Igbogo Congratulates Andoor On His Priestly Ordination

... Honours his Thanksgiving Mass in Konshisha 

By Terfa Naswem

In appreciation of those who have dedicated their lives to the vineyard of God, Engr. Japheth Terlumum Igbogo congratulates his trusted friend, Rev. Fr. Moses Terna Andoor on his priestly ordination.

Pleased with his priestly ordination, Igbogo honoured his 2nd priestly ordination Thanksgiving Mass on Sunday, 16th November, 2025 at St  Patrick's Catholic Church, Igbo, Agbeede-Gaav, Konshisha, Local Government Area, Benue State.

Igbogo who was one of the special guests at the reception ceremony, described Rev. Fr. Andoor as an honest man who displayed highly level of sincerity and care during their years together in Abuja. 

He prayed God Almighty to be his inspiration at all times so that he will be able to lead the flocks of God in His vineyard in accordance to His will.

Ushongo APC Holds Pre-Congress Meeting

...Dissolves Ward and Local Government Exco, pledges loyalty to Governor Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia's administration

By OrJande Agundu

The All Progressives Congress (APC), Ushongo Local Government Chapter, today held a pre-congress meeting in Lessel, the headquarters of Ushongo Local Government Area, to strategize ahead of the party’s forthcoming elective ward congresses.

Addressing the party faithful, the Lead Point Man and Leader of the party in Ushongo, Hon. Aondo Terkula Solomon, said the meeting became necessary to harmonize positions and ensure unity of purpose ahead of the ward, local government, state, and national congresses.

Hon. Aondo Terkula Solomon, who also serves as the Focal Person of the Governor in Ushongo, assured that under his leadership, the process would be transparent, fair, and inclusive, and everything will be equitably distributed across all divides.

He commended the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, for his developmental strides across the state, urging party members to remain steadfast and work towards delivering even higher votes for the governor in 2027 elections than in 2023.

Other speakers at the meeting including the Member representing Mata (Ushongo I) Constituency in the Benue State House of Assembly, Hon. Simon Gabo; Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Tersoo Kula; Hon. Sam Yuwa; Rt. Hon. Terkimbi Ikyange; and Hon. Alfred Acha also lauded the governor’s performance and called on Ushongo APC members to remain united and loyal to his administration.

They all emphasized the need for a peaceful, transparent, and inclusive congress.

In a motion moved by Hon. Alex Alex Toryiila Avakaa, the meeting unanimously dissolved the Tersoo Nyam-led Executive Committee, paving the way for a fresh elective congress.

The meeting had in attendance several key stakeholders, including the Executive Chairman of Ushongo Local Government Council, Hon. Adzu Terkimbi; Hon. Simon Gabo; Sir Tersoo Kula; Hon. Sam Yuwa; Prof. Terkura Tarnande; Gubernatorial Liaison Officer for Ushongo, Hon. @Mvedaga Atetan; Hon. Jacob Agede; Hon. Alfred Acha; all Councilors, and other prominent party stalwarts.

Igbogo Commends Jechira/Jemgbagh Youth Alliance For Alia 2027

... Appeals for formidable support for Gov. Alia through strategic planning

By Terfa Naswem

Engr. Japheth Terlumum Igbogo, an aspirant for Konshisha State Constituency seat at Benue State House of Assembly, on Sunday, 2nd November, 2025  commended Jechira/Jemgbagh Youth Alliance for Alia 2027 for their initiatives to ensure the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia wins his reelection in 2027.

The event which took place at JS Tarka Foundation, Makurdi, Benue State was attended by many youths from Jechira and Jemgbagh including others.

Igbogo who was represented by Comr. Ioriligh Clement Msuega stressed the need for the association to ensure strategic planning, which will cover many aspects in reaching out to electorates that will vote in the 2027 general election.

While commending Gov. Alia for the potent impact he is making on the people of Benue State, he appealed to the association to ensure that the good work Alia is doing is projected more elaborately to the world.

As a worthy son of Konshisha from Mbawar Council Ward, Igbogo said he will always identify with the association in achieving its primary goal for ensuring the reelection of Gov. Alia.

The Convener, Comr. Vincent Kaior was overwhelmed with joy for moral and financial support given by Igbogo. He promised to put the needed result-oriented strategy in place for achieving the goals of the association.

In their separate speeches, Hon. Jacob Akaabo, leader, APC Jechira Youth Forum, Makurdi and Barr. Denis Ashir encouraged the association to keep the flames burning for Alia as they will also give their support in various aspects of their capabilities to appreciate the good work Alia is doing for Benue State.