Benue’s Quiet Turnaround: How Governor Hyacinth Alia Is Rewriting the State’s Story
Away from the glare of national headlines and the usual politics of loud self-praise, a profound transformation is taking place in Benue State. Under the leadership of Governor, Reverend Father Hyacinth Alia, policies and projects that once existed only on paper are now materialising into concrete economic and social gains. What is emerging is not a media spectacle, but a deliberate and people-centred governance approach that many now describe as a silent but enduring revolution.
From Agrarian Strength to Industrial Power
For decades, Benue’s reputation as the “Food Basket of the Nation” came with a paradox: abundant agricultural produce but little value addition. Governor Alia’s administration appears determined to break that cycle through strategic industrialisation. Across the state, industrial complexes are rising to serve both local and regional markets.
A flagship of this drive is the ZEVA Beer Factory, envisioned to meet growing demand while opening a new revenue frontier for the state. Officials say the facility has the capacity to generate about ₦1.8 billion in monthly sales, a figure that could significantly strengthen Benue’s finances. The project has advanced beyond theory—sample products are already being tested, signalling readiness for commercial production.
Even more transformative are the fruit processing factories nearing completion. Designed to harness Benue’s vast production of oranges, tomatoes and other crops—and potentially yam tubers—the factories will process raw produce into finished goods, reduce waste, and increase farmers’ incomes. Scheduled for commissioning on February 28, 2026, these facilities represent a decisive shift from subsistence agriculture to agro-industrial prosperity.
Restoring Broken Systems
Beyond industry, the Alia administration has turned its attention to sectors long neglected. In health, the Benue State University Teaching Hospital has undergone comprehensive rehabilitation. Radiology units, structural facilities and specialised sections for children with special needs—once shadows of their former selves—have been revived. Health professionals describe the changes not as routine upgrades, but as a rescue mission for a system on the brink of collapse.
Jobs, Skills and a Safer Society
The economic impact of these initiatives is already evident. New factories, a state-owned bakery in Makurdi, and the revival of the printing press are creating employment, stimulating commerce and reducing the lure of crime. One of the most striking interventions is the fashion hub, a massive, fully equipped training centre where young people from across the state are trained and then deployed to train others in their communities. Established in collaboration with the Federal Government, the hub is fast becoming a symbol of productive youth engagement.
Reimagining Infrastructure and Urban Life
In Makurdi, road projects such as the iconic underpass are easing movement and redefining the city’s skyline. Street lighting has not only beautified the capital but also transformed security dynamics, particularly for commercial motorcycle riders. Once frequent targets of night-time robberies, Okada riders now operate with greater confidence—and openly identify as strong supporters of the governor who, they say, restored their safety and dignity.
Education and Workers’ Welfare: Rebuilding Trust
Education has not been left behind. Primary schools are being remodelled with the distinctive “Yes Fada” structures, while the recruitment of teachers is injecting new energy into the system. In classrooms visited, pupils’ enthusiasm reflected an environment rediscovered.
Perhaps the most emotionally resonant achievement is in workers’ welfare. The consistent and prompt payment of salaries has earned Governor Alia the nickname “Mr. 25th.” Labour unions now speak of renewed pride, noting that Benue labour leaders—once viewed with sympathy at national meetings—are today treated with respect. The change, they insist, is rooted in Alia’s commitment to workers’ dignity.
The People Speak
These sentiments came alive during a town hall meeting held on January 23 in Makurdi, where youths, women, labour leaders, traditional rulers and Okada riders took turns to testify. Their message was unified and emphatic: claims that Governor Alia is not working do not align with realities on the ground.
One particularly dramatic moment came when a representative of Okada riders pledged that their union would raise funds to purchase the governor’s second-term nomination form. When questioned about the cost, his response was blunt and confident—did anyone truly understand their numerical strength?
Confronting Insecurity with Candour
Governor Alia also addressed the most painful challenge facing the state: insecurity. He acknowledged that upon assuming office, nine local government areas were under siege. Through strengthened collaboration with the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and closer synergy with security agencies, that number has been reduced to three. While the problem has not disappeared, the governor stressed that sustained efforts are ongoing. He commended the armed forces and acknowledged the solidarity shown by President Tinubu and First Lady Remi Tinubu through their visits to Benue.
A Legacy Taking Shape
From affordable bread production that supports households—especially women—to industrial projects designed to outlive his tenure, Governor Alia’s agenda is increasingly defined by impact rather than rhetoric. As applause filled Government House and testimonies flowed, one conclusion became unavoidable: in Benue State, a quiet but consequential transformation is underway. And at its centre stands a cleric-governor whose approach to leadership is steadily redefining governance itself.
