By Isaac Kertyo, Makurdi
Concerned about the persistent underdevelopment in Benue State, stakeholders have emphasized the need for peace and unity of purpose to foster growth and progress.
Speaking at the One Benue event themed “The Youth for Discuss”, the convener, Mr. Lawrence Kyuta, outlined the long-term vision of the project, which aims to unite the people of Benue State for collective progress.
“This is just the beginning. As Benue celebrates its 50th anniversary, the future will be even brighter,” Kyuta stated. He explained that One Benue is not a one-time event but an ongoing initiative. Upcoming activities, including the One Benue Exhibition, One Benue Concert, and the One Benue Ambassador Contest, are scheduled to launch in April this year.
Kyuta highlighted that the exhibition will feature the One Local Government, One Product project, designed to identify and promote key products from each of the state’s 23 local government areas. This initiative aims to drive development and industrialization across the state.
In his address, the former Military Administrator of Benue State, Retired Brigadier General Atom Kpera, identified political differences as a major source of disunity within the state. He called for a paradigm shift among stakeholders, urging them to prioritize development over political rivalries.
“It’s time to move beyond political differences and focus on rebuilding the lost glory of Benue State,” Kpera emphasized. He urged leaders and citizens alike to embrace their responsibilities and work collectively towards the state’s growth.
Also speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Education and Knowledge Management, Benue State, Rev. Frederick Ikyaan, underscored the critical role that peace and unity play in the development of the state. He called on leaders to lead by example, stressing that their actions set the tone for others to follow.
The One Benue project reflects a collective commitment to fostering unity and development, as stakeholders rally around a common vision for the state’s future.
