Gov. Alia launches oil palm seedlings for media practitioners in Benue

From Attah Ede, Makurdi 

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, on Monday, launched improved Tenera oil palm seedlings for media practitioners in the state under the Benue Alia Palm Project.

The governor who launched during the monthly State Congress of the  Union held at the NUJ House, Makurdi, described the initiative as a sustainable economic intervention that will create jobs, boost industrial growth, and strengthen household incomes

He reiterated that his administration is committed to laying solid foundations for Benue’s development through infrastructural renewal, access to clean water, improved electricity, modernized schools, and stronger health facilities.

The governor insisted that sustainable growth requires long-term investment in agriculture, saying that those seedlings are not just gifts but an investment. 

“They are the foundation of an economy that will feed industries, create jobs for our youth, and generate wealth for our families. Every palm tree planted today is a seed of prosperity for tomorrow,” the Governor said.

Alia announced several interventions for the NUJ, which included the settlement of the Union’s outstanding ₦12 million dues to its national body,  renovation of the NUJ House in Makurdi, with provision of a utility bus to ease the union’s mobility challenges, and also the consideration of weigh-in allowances for journalists in government-owned media organizations.

He therefore, enjoined journalists to uphold truth and objectivity in their reportage, stressing that while constructive criticism is welcome, it should always point to solutions.

“I want reaffirm my  administration’s vision of transforming Benue from the “food basket of the nation” into the “industrial basket of Nigeria,” assuring that his government remains open to partnership with the media in shaping the state’s success story”, the governor stated.

In his remarks, the NUJ Chairman, Comrade Bemdoo Ugber, expressed gratitude to the Governor for empowering journalists with palm seedlings, describing the initiative as a bold step in wealth creation, food security, and agricultural diversification.

Ugber also applauded the administration’s infrastructural renewal, digital governance reforms, and efforts to restore security and dignity to displaced persons. He, however, appealed for further support in renovating the NUJ House, provision of official vehicles, and approval of weigh-in allowances.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr. Agweye Agbenu, lauded the project as a sustainable path to economic independence, noting that the planned planting of six million hybrid palm trees will, in the near future, position Benue as a leading hub for palm oil production.

 “This project has the potential to reduce dependence on federal allocations and lift thousands out of poverty. In years to come, other states will come to Benue to learn from this model,” Agbenu stated.