President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described Benue State’s 50th anniversary as a celebration of resilience, enterprise, courage, sacrifice, and hope, reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting the state’s development.
The President made the remarks on Saturday during the grand finale of activities marking Benue State’s golden jubilee in Makurdi. He was represented at the event by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila.
Tinubu said the creation of Benue State on February 3, 1976, reflected Nigeria’s commitment to justice, inclusion, and balanced national development, noting that five decades later, the state has fulfilled that vision by becoming one of the country’s pillars and earning recognition as Nigeria’s food basket.
The President paid tribute to the state’s founding fathers, especially the late Joseph Sarwuan Tarka, as well as former governors, administrators, public servants, and citizens whose sacrifices and contributions have shaped Benue’s growth over the past five decades.
He also praised the state’s contributions to national development, noting that Benue has produced distinguished leaders, professionals, scholars, business executives, artists, sports personalities, and public officials who have made significant impacts across Nigeria.
Tinubu commended Governor Hyacinth Alia for his efforts to strengthen governance, improve infrastructure, promote peace, and expand opportunities for residents.
The President reiterated the Federal Government’s readiness to partner with the Benue State Government in addressing security challenges, modernising agriculture, expanding infrastructure, creating jobs, and unlocking the state’s vast economic potential.
Addressing the youth, Tinubu encouraged them to embrace innovation and entrepreneurship as drivers of future development.
According to him, “The next chapter of Benue’s history belongs to you. Let your ideas become industries, your talents become enterprises, and your education become innovation.” He also urged all sons and daughters of Benue State to remain united, peaceful, and committed to the continued progress of their homeland.
Expressing optimism about the state’s future, the President said that with unity, visionary leadership, hard work, and faith in God, the next 50 years of Benue would surpass the achievements recorded since its creation.
Tinubu congratulated the people of Benue on reaching the historic milestone and prayed for continued peace, prosperity, and God’s blessings upon the state and Nigeria.
As part of the anniversary activities, the President also inaugurated the Bensono Fruit Processing Plant established by the Benue Investment and Property Company.
