By Angula Bishop Reuben
The Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has received overwhelming endorsement from the Tiv Supreme Council known as Ijir Tamen to continue leading the state until 2031, following his call for peace, unity, and collaboration among individuals and communities in Tiv land.
The endorsement came on Saturday, November 8, 2025, during the Supreme Council Meeting of the Tiv Area Traditional Council held at the Council Chambers in Gboko, Benue State.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Alia urged all Benue people to shun division and work together to sustain peace, stressing that unity is essential for overcoming the security and developmental challenges confronting the Food Basket of the Nation.
He expressed concern over recurring communal clashes, particularly those arising from land disputes, noting that such conflicts distract his administration from confronting external threats posed to the state by armed terrorists. “We must not fight ourselves when greater battles lie ahead. What Benue needs now is peace and understanding,” he stated.
Governor Alia outlined the achievements of his administration in key sectors such as health, education, ICT, agriculture, infrastructure, economy, and human capital development. He reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive governance, assuring the people of Benue that his government remains focused on policies that improve livelihoods and enhance development across the state.
While appreciating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support in tackling insecurity, the Governor reiterated that security is a shared responsibility, urging communities to cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities.
“I call on all Benue people to unite in the fight against insecurity. It is not a government affair alone, it is our collective duty,” he said.
Governor Alia also expressed gratitude to the Tiv Supreme Council for their confidence in his leadership. “I am deeply humbled by your trust and prayers. Give me time, and together, we will continue to build a new Benue that we and future generations will all be proud of,” he added.
Presiding over the meeting, the Tor Tiv V, His Majesty, Orchivirigh Prof. James Ortese Iorzua Ayatse, CFR, charged traditional rulers to strengthen local surveillance and report criminal activities in their domains. The Council also banned the cultivation of Indian hemp in Tiv land, warning that violators and any traditional rulers aiding crime would face sanctions.
The meeting reviewed reports on security, cultural reforms, and developmental initiatives, including “Bam u Kasev Tiv” a women’s empowerment loan scheme, and the progress of Tiv Television, a platform dedicated to promoting Tiv language and culture.
In a unanimous resolution, the Tiv Area Traditional Council commended Governor Alia’s leadership and resolved that he should continue to govern Benue State until 2031, citing his developmental strides and commitment to unity, peace and progress.
The meeting was attended by Tiv traditional rulers, local government chairmen, lawmakers, political appointees, and other prominent sons and daughters of Tiv land.