By Fely Mammah | Abuja | 

Benue State, long hailed as the “Food Basket of the Nation”, is once again finding its strength in agriculture — this time under the purposeful and reform-driven leadership of Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Alia, fondly nicknamed “YES FATHER.”

Despite its immense natural and human resource potential, Benue has for years battled stagnation, poor governance, and abandonment of critical sectors — most notably agriculture. But since his emergence, Governor Alia has systematically revived previously neglected areas of productivity and development, aiming to reposition the state as a national leader in food production and economic growth.

Once positioned to feed not only Nigeria but also export processed agricultural goods, Benue’s vast potential was squandered by political administrators more focused on self-serving politics than sustainable development. That trend, however, has shifted under Governor Alia.

“A truthful man has no business stammering once the truth cannot be covered,” says one local observer, capturing the boldness and clarity with which Alia has approached governance.

As a trained clinical psychologist, Alia’s understanding of systemic failure and societal trauma has shaped a leadership style grounded in accountability, inclusivity, and results. His vision has drawn comparisons to transformational African leaders like President Ibrahim Traoré of Burkina Faso, with whom he shares a reputation for outspokenness and reform-minded governance.

Governor Alia’s unfiltered response to the violent herdsmen attacks on Benue communities won national attention — and prompted a quick intervention from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who visited the state to facilitate peace talks involving former governors, traditional rulers, and stakeholders.

That same bold approach has been visible across Alia’s two years in office. His anti-godfatherism stance, resistance to political manipulation, and focus on grassroots empowerment have won him growing support from Benue indigenes, who now see his leadership as genuine and forward-thinking.

Even when faced with political resistance, as seen in the recent impeachment of the State Assembly Speaker (allegedly for attempting to destabilize a popularly supported administration), Governor Alia has remained steady and focused on governance over politics

Governor Alia has placed agriculture at the heart of Benue’s revival, recently flagging off the 2025 cropping season and rolling out a massive distribution of subsidised farm inputs. His administration is committed to creating “millionaire farmers” through targeted support, mechanisation, and modern extension services.

“We want to reposition Benue as Nigeria’s agricultural powerhouse,” the governor declared at the launch event.

Some of the key initiatives include:
    •    Distribution of 9,000 metric tonnes (600 trucks) of fertilisers, including NPK, UREA, and SSP, valued at ₦16.8 billion, with 50% subsidy.
    •    Sale of fertilisers at a subsidised price of ₦22,500 per bag.
    •    A promise to offset ₦5 billion owed to genuine fertiliser suppliers since 2024.
    •    Launch of a hybrid digital platform and credible farmers’ register to ensure transparency and eliminate corruption in fertiliser access.
    •    Cashless payment system for input purchases through POS terminals at accredited centers.
    •    Empowerment of widows with 300 bags of fertiliser during the flag-off.

One of the governor’s distinct approaches is his reliance on data-driven governance. His policies are grounded in research and transparent documentation, making his administration accountable and easy to track.

Moreover, Governor Alia has ensured inclusive governance, reshuffling his cabinet to reflect representation from all local government areas and appointing qualified aides based on merit. His Commissioners, aides, and advisers work in visible synergy — a clear departure from the politics of division that once plagued the
In alignment with the World Health Organization (WHO), NAFDAC, and AIT’s awareness campaigns, Governor Alia is also pushing agricultural solutions to health challenges like diabetes, advocating for a return to natural food-based treatments. His health-driven approach to farming echoes his background in psychology and his commitment to the total well-being of Benue’s citizens.

Governor Alia has urged the people of Benue to “think differently,” “stay vigilant,” and “make agriculture the pride of their land.” With a growing appreciation of his leadership style and a portfolio of visible projects, his administration is steadily building legacies worthy of emulation.

In a time when many Nigerian states are struggling to define their identity and direction, Benue, under Fr. Alia, is boldly rewriting its story — one crop, one policy, and one empowered citizen at a time.

Benue is back in business — and the “Food Basket of the Nation” is finally ready to feed both Nigeria and the world.