Governor Hyacinth Alia has assured Benue residents that no ranch will be established in the state without the explicit consent of the people and his administration.
Speaking on Tuesday during a town hall meeting with stakeholders from the Katsina-Ala, Ukum, and Logo federal constituency, the governor delivered a firm message against any external imposition of ranching policies on Benue land.
“Nobody will force us to cede even an inch of our land to pastoralists for any purpose. If that must happen, I can assure you, it will not be this time that I am still the governor of Benue,” Alia declared.
The governor’s stance comes amid growing concerns over the federal government’s proposed ranching policy, which reportedly designates Benue as a pilot state.
Security Measures Enhanced
Addressing security challenges in the area, Alia announced the establishment of three military operational units from the newly created 5 Division of the Nigerian Army.
The units will be strategically located at Agu in Katsina-Ala, Anyiin in Logo, and Azendeshi in Ukum local government areas.
The governor also donated 30 motorcycles to security agencies to enhance patrols and improve rapid response to distress calls.
Infrastructure Development Plans
Outlining his administration’s infrastructure agenda, Alia revealed plans to construct a new dam with a projected capacity of 460 megawatts.
“The project will provide water and support electricity generation in the state,” the governor stated.
Statewide Engagement Tour
The Katsina-Ala meeting forms part of Alia’s statewide thank-you tour, which aims to appreciate members of the All Progressives Congress for electing him as the party’s 2027 governorship candidate.
The tour features town hall meetings with stakeholders across the state’s 11 federal constituencies, with similar engagements planned for the remaining constituencies in the coming days.