On Monday, the Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, inaugurated the newly established Governor Alia Youth House in Makurdi and commenced the distribution of 4,000 tenera oil palm seedlings to youths throughout the state.
The occasion, held at Second Avenue, Iorkyaa Ako Street, High Level, Makurdi, was officiated by the deputy governor, Dr. Sam Ode, mni, on behalf of the governor.
In his address during the ceremony, Dr. Ode emphasized the significance of this initiative as a demonstration of the Alia administration’s commitment to empowering young individuals through sustainable projects and engagement platforms. He remarked that the Youth House, a first of its kind in the state, reflects the organizational capabilities and creativity of the youth in Benue.
“Never before in the history of our political landscape have we observed such unity among youths resulting in the establishment of a significant infrastructure. This facility will support the creative industry and function as a hub for ideas and innovation,” stated Dr. Ode.
He also indicated that the distribution of palm seedlings is congruent with the governor’s vision to position agriculture as a pivotal force for youth empowerment within the state.
“These palm trees will reach maturity in approximately three years, creating opportunities for wealth generation through palm production in Benue State. Governor Alia has made it abundantly clear that he is not merely providing resources but is also imparting essential skills for self-sufficiency to our youth,” he added.
Dr. Ode commended the Special Adviser on International Business, Hon. Alex Addingi, for leading the palm initiative and reiterated the administration's unwavering stance against political violence.
“Under this administration, violence in politics is intolerable. We recognize that the youth of Benue are inherently non-violent, and we encourage you to continue demonstrating this,” he remarked.
Hon. Terver Gbenda, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth and Taskforce on Illegal Levies, described the event as a “dream come true,” highlighting that the Alia administration has granted unprecedented recognition to youth initiatives.
He noted that over 13,000 young individuals have already been engaged across various state institutions, including the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Benue State University Teaching Hospital, and the Benue Investment and Property Company (BIPC). Additionally, thousands have benefited from agricultural support programs, such as subsidized fertilizers and chemicals.
Gbenda praised the governor for initiating critical infrastructure projects, including township roads, rural road development, and the state’s first flyovers in Makurdi and Gboko, affirming that the youth will continue to support his leadership.
Chief Benjamin Omale, the APC State Chairman, commended the governor’s vision and urged the youth to resist being lured by “temporary political gifts,” advising them to focus instead on the enduring benefits of Alia’s people-centered initiatives.
“The governor has undertaken impactful projects in infrastructure, healthcare, and agriculture. These represent investments in our future, and we must remain resolute in our support for him,” Omale asserted.
Youth leaders from the three senatorial districts of the state also expressed their steadfast support for Governor Alia’s administration and assured him of significant youth mobilization in anticipation of the 2027 elections.
One leader emphasized the critical nature of youth voter registration and active participation, while another recognized the Youth House as a significant milestone in political inclusion. A third leader underscored the administration’s accomplishments in youth empowerment, conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and infrastructural development.
All leaders unanimously declared their commitment to continue collaborating with the governor to sustain the progress achieved thus far, affirming that the youth of Benue are unequivocally aligned with his objectives. The commissioning ceremony attracted youth leaders from all 23 local government areas, party officials, heads of parastatals and agencies, as well as other pertinent stakeholders.
