Challenges, Expectations High, Gov Alia Says as He Inaugurates 17 Commissioners

By Emmanuel Antswen

Governor Hyacinth Alia has sworn in 17 Commissioners and 23 Special Advisers and charged them to sustain the positive leadership qualities that qualified them for their positions.

Performing the ceremony on Tuesday in Makurdi, Alia admitted that the commissioners and special advisers were assuming duties at a time challenges and expectations were high.

He said the time of politicking was over and urged people to support those in leadership positions to succeed.

The governor appealed to Benue people to give them the cooperation they deserve to perform maximally and urged the appointees to contribute their qouta to the growth and development of the state.

“You will be periodically monitored and assessed to determine your suitability to continue to serve the Benue people, in which we are all labourers.

“The challenges that lie ahead are significant, and the road to progress may not always be smooth. But I implore each one of you to face these obstacles with courage, determination, and resilience.

“Let your resolve ignite a passion within you that will fuel your efforts to make lasting and meaningful impacts on the lives of the people of Benue,” he said.

The governor listed the commissioners and their portfolios to include: Mr Tiza Imojime, Works and Housing; Mr Omale Omale, Power, Energy and Transport; Mrs Joy Luga, Cooperative, Urban and Rural Development.

Others are: Dr Yanmar Ortese, Health and Human Services; Dr Frederick Ikyaan, Education and Knowledge Management; Mr Ugwu Odoh, Water Resources, Environment and Climate Change; and Mr Kwaghba Amande, ICT and Digital Economy.

Also named are, Mr Mathew Aboh, Information, Culture and Tourism; Mr Aondowase Kunde, Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management; Prof Moses Ogbaji, Agriculture; Mr Martin Shaager, Lands, Survey and Solid Minerals; Mr Michael Ogelegba, Finance, Budget Planning.

Mrs Ann Itodo, Women Affairs and Social Development; Mr Fidelis Mnyim, Justice and Public Order; Mr Terkimbi Ikyange, Youths, Sport and Creativity; Mr Alumo Orpin, Commence and Industry; and Mr Nick Eworo Science, Technology and Innovation, were also announced.

He said the portfolios for the special advisers would be announced during their retreat, while the first Executive Council meeting would be held on Sept. 6.

Responding on behalf of the appointees, Dr Frederick Ikyaan said they would not disappoint in their various areas of assignment and urged the people to support them to succeed.

(NAN)