Barns Chonkula: Unstoppable mandate – Why Governor Alia’s re-election in 2027 seems inevitable
When it comes to ambition, the Tiv people have a popular saying: “Mba yangen agbian Ivaan I udugh ga,” meaning, “You don’t deny anyone the opportunity to try; let them test the waters and see.”
Consequently, without the essence of this proverb, one could confidently assert that based on Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia’s track record as Governor of the Food Basket state thus far, any other gubernatorial aspirations in the State would be pointless and doomed to fail.
The Governor has made notable achievements that speak for themselves. Several projects have reached completion, a significant number are underway, and more have gained approval from the State Executive Council and are set to commence. The development driven by his leadership stands out as observable, provable, and unquestionable.
With 2027 on the horizon, imagining someone overcoming the Reverend Gentleman in a vote grows increasingly difficult. He adopts an inclusive leadership style that transcends all societal divisions such as age, class, background, or status. Unlike previous administrations that were often criticized for favoring select political allies, classmates, or religious affiliations, Alia has embraced diversity. His government has established a platform that accommodates all those who can positively impact the state, regardless of their political background.
His administration has ensured that young individuals, regarded as essential to a dynamic economy, are not overlooked.
Right after assuming her role, Governor Alia introduced a computer training and empowerment project that targets over 10,000 youths in Benue through the Benue Tech Skills initiative. Many of the beneficiaries are now certified, self-employed, and even mentoring others.
In education, his administration has promoted transforming outdated chalkboards to contemporary digital whiteboards. He established contemporary classroom structures in basic education to foster a better learning atmosphere for pupils and educators. At the tertiary level, the Governor has cleared the backlog arrears of various unfulfilled agreements including salaries, while also prioritizing staff training and paying the federal government minimum wage to motivate and keep talent.
In infrastructure, the evidence is overwhelming. From the underpasses in Makurdi and Gboko (nearing completion) to the construction of rural roads with the initial phase covering 12 out of the 23 Local Government areas, reconstruction of Benue State House of Assembly Complex and Clinic, rehabilitation of the State Secretary for the first time since it’s construction 42 years ago, and road constructions in Otukpo, Gboko, and Makurdi metropolis. The evolution is palpable.
One of Governor Alia’s significant accomplishments lies in wealth creation. The BIPC Bread and Water initiative has not only made basic food items more affordable but has also generated jobs and revenue. Apart from bread and water, BIPC is now creating industrial goods like nails and nylons, minimizing dependence on foreign markets and ensuring that wealth stays within the state.
The farming industry has seen a notable increase in support. The Governor secured tractors for the state and partnered with a tractor assembling company to build a factory within the state.
By regularly providing subsidies for fertilizers, herbicides, insecticides, improved seedlings, and other agricultural inputs, the governor has enabled Benue farmers to expand their fields and boost production while lowering expenses, thereby reinforcing the state’s image as the ‘Food Basket of the Nation.’
It’s not possible to detail every achievement he has made in just two years, but these key points illustrate the breadth of his impact.
Following my appraisal of the administration on the cyberspace recently where I listed Governor’s projects, one Tordue Ieren confirmed by observations and praised, the governor for his works, particularly with the youth. Theresa Wuam who said she is a mother, and a retiree (senior citizen) responded, pointing out that the governor is working for all Benue people, regardless of age. She added that for the first time in years, she now receives her monthly pension regularly, including arrears.
With this level of commitment, inclusivity, and performance, it’s no exaggeration to say that no candidate can credibly challenge Governor Alia in 2027. He has earned the confidence of the people and with their continued support, his re-election appears not only likely but inevitable.
Comrade Barns Chonkula is a patriot. He writes from Makurdi.
Barns Chonkula: Unstoppable mandate – Why Governor Alia’s re-election in 2027 seems inevitable
