Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, on Friday inaugurated seven newly appointed commissioners, urging them to prioritize service to the people, teamwork, and tangible results in governance.
The commissioners are: Hon. Ankwa Amo, Hon. Kuma Aii Yenge, Hon. Roy Ashirga Terna, Hon. Monday Angwa Egbe, Hon. Elizabeth Onma Ogenyi, Hon. Solomon Iorpev, and Hon. Nick Eworo.
Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony held at Government House, Makurdi, the Governor described the occasion as “another significant moment in our collective journey to build a better Benue State.”
He congratulated the new appointees on their confirmation by the Benue State House of Assembly and thanked the legislature for the speedy process.
“Your emergence is not merely an elevation to public office. It is a call to service, a solemn trust, and an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the development, stability, and prosperity of our dear state,” Gov. Alia stated.
The Governor reminded the commissioners that the oath of office they took was to serve the people of Benue State and not personal or group interests. He said the people expect competence, integrity, fairness, accountability, diligence, and a government that listens.
Gov. Alia charged the new cabinet members to operate as one team rather than in isolated silos, stressing that government cannot function effectively when Ministries, Departments and Agencies work in isolation.
“The challenges confronting our people are interconnected, and our responses must, therefore, be collaboratively connected. Where one ministry needs the support of another, provide it. Where responsibilities overlap, work together,” he said.
He acknowledged that the road ahead would be tough, with difficult decisions, limited resources, and competing demands. He urged them to remain focused, consult widely, act with courage, and always put public interest first.
The Governor assured the commissioners of his support and institutional backing, but warned that it comes with the expectation of delivering results. He urged them to be accessible, visit communities, engage stakeholders, and embrace innovation, technology, and modern management approaches.
“At the end of your tenure, what should matter is not the number of meetings you attended or the length of your speeches, but the difference your ministry made in the lives of ordinary Benue people,” he said.
Gov. Alia further reminded them that public office is temporary, but legacies endure. He charged them to “be ministers of service, not merely holders of office” and to conduct themselves in a manner that would make their families and the state proud.
He concluded by praying for God’s guidance as the administration works to build “a better, more peaceful, prosperous, and united Benue State,” adding, “I am convinced that a new Benue is possible.”
Responding on behalf of the new commissioners, Hon. Nick Eworo thanked the Governor for finding them worthy among millions of Benue citizens. He assured that they would not disappoint the administration and would work together to ensure citizens are happy with the government at the end of the day.
“We take this burden with you. We know they will heap all sorts of blame and insults on us. This is part of the job. But we will strive to move along with you,” Hon. Eworo said.
