Nigeria @64: Gov Alia a symbol of Independence for Benue – Bishop Anagbe

By David Odama

The Catholic Bishop of Makurdi Diocese and Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Benue State chapter, Most Rev Wilfred Anagbe has acknowledged the developmental strides of the government of Benue State under the leadership of Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, saying he symbolizes Independence to the people of Benue.

Bishop stated this on Sunday during an interdenominational service to mark the nation’s 64th independence held at The Apostolic Church Nigeria in Makurdi.

The Service was organized by the Benue State CAN in conjunction with Benue State Government.

Anagbe who was represented by the Vice Chairman, Rev. Jonathan Ugbede, appreciated God for the leadership He has given the state, adding that Benue is now witnessing tremendous development in all corners and becoming an independent state.

“The government of Fr. Alia is doing well. We are seeing development in all corners. Just recently the SUBEB CBT for mass recruitment, rural and township roads, the Health, Education, Agric sectors are all blooming.

“We urge all Christians and Benue people to pray for you because we want the church and the state to grow.”

While thanking God for the grace to celebrate the Service, Bishop Anagbe said the Christian body in the state was solidly behind Governor Alia and that they would continue to offer prayers for him to continue to excel.

He appealed for the installation of solar lights to light up and to aid the security at the road leading to the state Secretariat of CAN among other places.

Responding, Governor Hyacinth Alia said the development and unity of the state remains his administration priority.

Alia who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, (SSG) Mrs Deborah Aber, said he was determined to change the fortunes of Benue through new socio economic policies.

“I have prioritized staff welfare, basic infrastructure, pensions and gratuity, health, education, agriculture, youth and women empowerment. I want Benue citizens to smile and remain proud for voting me in.

“My administration has been working tirelessly to bring sustainable development and strengthen the security agencies to ensure peace across the state.

Governor Alia who listed several ongoing developmental projects by his administration promised to sustain the tempo.

The Governor called on Benue citizens to unite in order to overcome the challenges facing the state just as he congratulated Nigerians and Nigeria on her 64th Independence Day.

The Governor also called for peace and unity to enhance the State’s development.

He noted that the 64th Independence anniversary is an important celebration for Nigeria and Benue and wished the country and State peace and harmony.

The Governor thanked the president for his intervention and assistance to the state in all sectors, saying “they have helped him succeed”.

He also commended CAN for their unwavering commitment to promoting unity, peace, and social justice in the state and called on the church to continue to preach the gospel of peace as the nation navigate through the present challenges.

He pledged to continue to work tirelessly to serve the people of the state with honesty, integrity, and diligence to enable them enjoy the dividends of democracy.

He further called on Benue people to go out enmase and vote for APC candidates in the coming local government election holding on Saturday, October 5, 2024.

He said “Through this, we will vote for development and good governance.”

Earlier in his sermon, the immediate past chairman of CAN, Rev.Akpen Leva who drew his sermon from Isaiah 43 vs 19-21 admonished Nigerians to place their hope in God inspite of the challenges confronting the nation.

He likened Nigeria present situation to the Israelites journey in the wilderness and called on Nigerians to guide their loins and hope for better tomorrow.

“God knows why we are passing through this challenges this time, a nation that is matching on crude oil but suffering fuel scarcity, protest will not solve the problem, God allows us to have this experience.

“He is the only one that can change the mind of the people, the joy is that God is with us on this journey, we should trust in Him that He will do a new thing in Nigeria,” the clergyman said.

The Principal Private Secretary to the Governor, Dr Emmanuel Chenge, the Commissioners of Cooperative and Rural Development, Lady Joy Luga and Hon Attorney General of the State and Commissioner for Justice and Public Order. Fidelis Mnyim, Special Adviser to the Governor on Security and Internal Affairs, Chief Joseph Har (PSP), amongst others were present at the event.