Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has officially introduced the state’s anthem and symbols as part of efforts to strengthen cultural identity and heritage.
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony in Makurdi on Saturday, Governor Alia announced plans to send an Executive Bill to the House of Assembly to formalize their adoption.
He emphasized that these symbols embody the values, history, and culture of the Benue people while serving as tools to attract both tourists and investors.
“With these symbols, Benue will have a unique identity and will stand out among states,” Alia stated. “They serve not just as a representation of our culture but as a call to unity, responsibility, and greatness. Our struggles, triumphs, and diversity make us stronger together.”
The governor urged citizens to embrace the symbols with pride, seeing them as a reflection of Benue’s rich heritage.
He also commended the committee responsible for developing the symbols, praising their dedication and creativity.
“Your hard work in shaping the identity of our state is deeply appreciated. Whether selected or not, every contributor has played a role in this historic moment,” he said.
Governor Alia reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving infrastructure, security, healthcare, and education.
He highlighted the engagement of 9,700 new teachers as part of efforts to strengthen the state’s education system.
Additionally, he assured residents that ongoing security measures would soon facilitate the return of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) to their ancestral homes.
Earlier, the Chairman of the State Symbols Screening Committee, Justice Augustine Utsaha (retd.), described the project as a long-overdue initiative that would foster a stronger sense of identity among Benue people.
The committee’s secretary, Chief Solomon Iorpev, disclosed that 119 entries were received, with the final state anthem crafted from submissions by the top five finalists.
He expressed hope that the new symbols would not only promote unity but also contribute to cultural and educational development across the state.