As Benue State celebrates its 49th anniversary, Governor Hyacinth Alia has emphasized his commitment to driving the state to unprecedented levels of economic prosperity and infrastructural development.

In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Tersoo Kula, and made available to newsmen on Monday in Makurdi, Alia outlined the significant reforms his administration has set in motion since he assumed office.

“Less than two years into our administration, we have achieved remarkable breakthroughs, unprecedented in the history of the state,” said Alia.

The governor highlighted key achievements, including the rollout of programs aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and agribusiness to ensure food security and improve livelihoods. “We have rehabilitated roads, opened new ones, constructed and fixed public facilities to make Benue more accessible, enhancing economic growth,” he stated.

Alia also underscored the administration’s focus on healthcare, pledging to advance healthcare facilities to ensure quality and accessible services for all citizens. “Our resolve is to take the state where every citizen experiences prosperity, security, and opportunity,” he added.

The governor stressed that achieving these goals requires the collective efforts of all Benue citizens. “This target cannot be achieved alone. It calls for the collaborative determination of all stakeholders, community leaders, traditional rulers, business owners, and our energetic youth. Together, the administration can build a future that mirrors our joint desires,” Alia urged.

As the state marks its 49th anniversary, the governor called on the people to remain steadfast in their commitment to promoting Benue’s growth. “I extend a hand of fellowship to all stakeholders to join hands with us in this noble endeavour,” he concluded.

The Northern Youth Influencers have commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Hon. Olushola Olofin as the Board Chairman of the Nigerian Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), describing the move as a demonstration of the President’s commitment to competence, dedication, and service.

In a statement signed by its National President, Hon. Zachariah C. Hyellamada, the group praised Tinubu’s leadership in selecting individuals with proven expertise to head critical institutions, emphasizing that Olofin’s background in ICT, management, and business administration makes him well-suited for the role.

“Leadership is about choosing the right people for the right responsibilities, and Hon. Olofin is a perfect fit for this role. His track record speaks for itself, and we have no doubt that he will uphold the values of transparency, efficiency, and impact-driven service delivery,” the statement read.

The group reaffirmed its support for Tinubu’s administration, lauding his efforts to reposition Nigeria’s economy, strengthen institutions, and ensure inclusive development.

“With Hon. Olofin’s leadership at NSITF, we expect to see a renewed focus on social security, improved service delivery, and a system that truly works for Nigerian workers,” the statement added.

The Northern Youth Influencers further assured the President of their unwavering support, expressing optimism that the Renewed Hope Agenda would continue to translate into tangible progress for Nigerians.

Members of the Omoluabi Progressives, a political group loyal to former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, have announced their decision to leave the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a statement released on Monday in Osogbo and signed by the group’s Organising and Publicity Secretary, Oluwaseun Abosede, the resolution was said to have been reached during the group’s monthly meeting in Ilesa, with stakeholders from all 332 wards in attendance.

Abosede cited several reasons for the group’s exit from the APC, including allegations of ostracism, suspension, and expulsion of members without fair hearing. He also noted the perceived neglect and marginalization of the group within the party, as well as dissatisfaction with the handling of internal crises, which he claimed contributed to APC’s poor performance in the last election cycle in Osun State.

“Members of the group were put to a voice vote by the leadership, and they unanimously affirmed their readiness to switch allegiance to another political platform ahead of the 2026 Osun governorship election,” Abosede said.

Speaking at the meeting, Aregbesola, the immediate past Minister of Interior, commended members for their dedication to integrity, character, and good governance. He described the group’s decision to leave the APC as the beginning of a new journey toward responsible leadership in Osun.

“I am indeed happy that all of you have spoken with one voice. A united front to lead the way to our collective victory in the journey ahead,” he said. “Our mission is to raise the level of prosperity of our dear state through responsible leadership. The path we have chosen is smooth, highly reassuring, and full of good tides that will propel Osun to greatness.”

Aregbesola urged members to remain steadfast, attract genuine allies, and prepare the Omoluabi Progressives for the challenges ahead. He assured them that ongoing efforts to reposition the group would soon yield positive results.

“We are open to all, regardless of political, religious, or socio-cultural affiliations. We have the numbers, strength, and political acumen to provide leadership that will make Osun the envy of its peers. By the grace of God, we shall succeed,” Aregbesola declared.

The Omoluabi Progressives’ departure signals a significant shift in Osun’s political landscape ahead of the next governorship election.