Governor Hyacinth Alia has expressed the commitment of his administration to fostering peace, strengthen institutions, rebuild communities and create an environment for people of the State to thrive.
Governor Alia stated this Tuesday during a courtesy call on him by the Ambassador of Austria to Nigeria, Mr. Peter Guschelbauer at Government House, Makurdi.
Represented by his Deputy, Dr Sam Ode, the Governor who described sustainable peace as the presence of justice, opportunity, inclusion and hope, said the State Government would continue to invest in initiatives that promote dialogue, reconciliation, durable solutions for displaced populations, youth empowerment, agricultural development and economic recovery.
He commended the Austrian Embassy for its support towards mediation, peace building, social cohesion and community resilience in the State, as well as engagement with religious leaders and other stakeholders who contribute continuously to strengthen social harmony and peace coexistence across Benue communities.
Governor Alia called for broader engagement with Austrian institutions and partners across sectors as Benue possesses agricultural potential and investment opportunities, seeking strategic partnerships that could unlock value chains, create jobs, strengthen food security and improve livelihoods of people of the State.
Ambassador of Austria to Nigeria, Mr. Guschelbauer said his visit to the State was to host a mediation event in partnership with the Foundation for Justice, Peace and Development of the Catholic Diocese of Makurdi for resolution and stability to the conflicts as well as explore ways of improving the industrial potential of Benue.
In a remark, Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Deborah Aber expressed gladness over the engagement with the Austrian Embassy. She said the administration of Governor Alia was already focused on its thematic area of peace building, meditation and community resilience by establishing community level peace committees that involve women and expressed hope of more partnership with the Embassy.
