An Open Letter to Benue Citizens –By Matthew Ma

“Let us take a moment to cultivate patience during this crucial period. We must provide Governor Alia with the necessary space to implement his vision effectively. We should continue to extend our steadfast support to ensure his success, while also offering constructive criticism that keeps him focused on his goals. Our collective voices should resonate with a spirit of collaboration and partnership, rather than simply expressing dissent or protest. Benue has consistently demonstrated remarkable resilience, showcasing our true strength through our ability to endure challenges and rebuild in the face of adversity. As we embark on this journey together, let us lean on patience, support one another in prayer, and establish partnerships that drive us forward.”

Dear Benue Sons and Daughters,

For some time now, I have felt a strong urge to reach out to you through this open letter, but various circumstances have delayed me until today. As we navigate a complex period filled with both challenges and opportunities, it is essential to share my thoughts and reflections with you, my fellow citizens. Our beloved state, under the leadership of Governor Hyacinth Alia, stands at a crucial juncture that calls for our attention, unity, and commitment. We are all too familiar with the pressing issues we face—security challenges, economic difficulties, and unemployment. These urgent matters not only impact our daily lives but also shape the future of our communities. Governor Alia’s administration is tasked with the formidable challenge of guiding us through these turbulent times, and it is essential that we, as a united force, offer our support and constructive input to ensure a brighter future for our state.

Our cherished state stands at a pivotal moment. Like many of you, I share profound concerns regarding our roads, schools, healthcare, and the well-being of our citizens. We aspire for change, crave development, and seek leadership that can restore pride to the “Food Basket of the Nation.” In this hope, we elected Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia as our governor, believing he would guide Benue into a new era of renewal. Yet, as weeks have turned into months, and months into years, many of us find ourselves growing impatient. Questions remain: Why has change not arrived more swiftly? Why do we continue to grapple with the same persistent challenges?

A close examination of the development initiatives led by Fr. Alia reveals one undeniable point: he has demonstrated a commitment to positive change. Since 1992, this marks the first occasion a government in Benue has launched such a significant number of high-profile projects simultaneously. Although the progress may seem gradual, the intentions are clear, and the results are evident. Notably, all these visible advancements have been accomplished in just two years. Projects such as the underpasses in Makurdi and Gboko, the dualized Ishaya Bakut Road equipped with a drainage system that addresses longstanding ecological issues, and the Makurdi-Gboko dual carriageway extending to Air Force Base are anything but ordinary. The Wurukum flyover, while officially designated as a federal project, has received considerable attention and acclaim as a cornerstone of the urban renewal efforts undertaken by this administration. Its construction is perceived as a crucial advancement toward enhancing traffic flow and improving connectivity within the city, ultimately fostering economic growth. In addition to the flyover, the State is witnessing exciting developments, such as the Benue Brewery, which is set to make a significant impact on the local economy by generating jobs and increasing the production of locally sourced beverages. Moreover, a new juice company is slated to begin operations shortly, offering fresh, healthy options for consumers while also promoting agricultural output in the area. Collectively, these projects underscore this administration’s commitment to elevating the State and enhancing the quality of life for its residents through strategic investments in infrastructure and industry.

Beyond its infrastructure, the most significant legacy may not even be the flyovers. The establishment of the new university in Ihugh has the potential to transform Benue’s education landscape into a vibrant production hub, fostering job creation, entrepreneurship, and a sustainable knowledge economy that will endure beyond any single administration. Additionally, the recruitment of over 9,000 teachers is already making a tangible impact in rural communities. A few months ago, I came across a list featuring the names of individuals from my village who had recently secured positions as teachers in government schools. This initiative represents a significant and transformative shift for our community, providing new opportunities and fostering educational growth. It is truly inspiring to witness how this policy will tangibly impact people’s lives, instilling hope and a sense of stability in families while contributing to the education of our youth. This development is genuinely uplifting and holds great promise for the future of our villages.

Like many other local governments in the State, I deeply resonate with the frustration and pain that comes from waiting—waiting for the promise of good governance to be fulfilled, waiting for our infrastructure to be improved and modernized, waiting for roads to be constructed, and waiting for the Food Basket of the Nation to truly uphold its name and meet the needs of its people. This waiting has often tested our limits, eroding our patience and challenging our hope in a brighter future. However, we must recognize that the journey of rebuilding and establishing enduring change is not a swift one; it demands time and unwavering dedication. Governor Alia did not assume office in a pristine state or with an ideal scenario before him. Instead, he inherited a complicated landscape characterized by years of accumulating debts, inefficient systems, and deeply rooted challenges that cannot be resolved in an instant. Just as farming requires patience—a careful balance of planting seeds and nurturing them through the seasons until they are ripe for harvest—so too does governance demand time for the seeds of reform to take root and ultimately flourish. We must have faith in this process and remain dedicated to fostering developments that will guide us toward the progress we all seek.

It is essential to clarify that our inquiries and criticisms regarding leadership are by no means invalid or unwarranted. We must not shy away from expressing our concerns, nor should we excuse any form of inaction or overlook legitimate critiques of those in power. As engaged citizens, it is our fundamental responsibility to demand accountability from our leaders and ensure they are held to the standards we expect. However, while we strive for accountability, we must balance it with patience, encouragement, and a shared commitment to a common goal. Suppose we hastily undermine or criticize our leaders before they have had the chance to establish a solid foundation for their initiatives. In that case, we risk jeopardizing even the modest advancements that may already be underway. Thus, it falls upon us as responsible citizens to not only call for accountability but to do so thoughtfully. We need to recognize that the path to development and progress is not the endeavor of a single individual; rather, it is a collective journey that involves the contributions and collaboration of all stakeholders. In this light, let us move forward together, fostering an atmosphere where accountability coexists with support and collective determination to achieve our shared objectives.

We must take a moment to honor the resilient people of Benue, whose extraordinary patience and perseverance have been instrumental in fostering positive change within their communities and extending beyond their borders. When we engage in discourse surrounding development or critique the actions and leadership of figures such as Governor Alia, it is essential to understand that these discussions arise from a place of elevated expectations and aspirations. The citizens of Benue are not just passive observers; they actively seek significant advancements and transformative progress in their lives and environments. Their calls for improvement are not mere expressions of dissatisfaction with the current situation but rather reflect a more profound longing for a comprehensive transformation that aligns with their aspirations for a brighter and more prosperous future. Such a nuanced understanding is crucial, as it highlights that the drive for progress is fundamentally intertwined with the hopes, dreams, and desires of the community at large. In this context, it becomes imperative for observers and commentators to approach their critiques with care and consideration. Any criticism must focus on cultivating a more compelling and inclusive vision for future development, rather than descending into a narrative that dismisses or denies the progress that has been made to date. Therefore, let us acknowledge the hard work and efforts that have already been undertaken — from grassroots initiatives to governmental policies — while concurrently advocating for further advancement. By doing so, we can foster a more engaged, thoughtful, and responsive dialogue about the future of Benue.

As we look to the future, we must harness the growing impatience among the citizens of Benue State and transform it into a comprehensive and ambitious vision for our State. This vision must not only build on the achievements we have made thus far but also proactively tackle the broader, transformative goals, including job creation, industrialization, and improved security. Our progress must evolve from isolated projects into cohesive systems that underpin true transformation. Key to this vision is the Cargo Airport Project, a bold initiative that integrates transportation, security, and logistics. Central to this ambitious project should be the renovation and enhancement of several critical local infrastructures. These include the Otukpo Burn Bricks facility, which will boost local manufacturing, and the Makurdi Modern Market, which stands to enhance trade and economic activity. The JS Tarka Foundation will play a pivotal role in fostering educational advancement and community development.

Moreover, the revitalization of the Otobi Water Works and the strategic dredging of the River Benue and Katsina-Ala will not only improve water access but also enhance our agricultural capabilities and ecological health. The establishment of the Ikyogen Cattle Ranch will support the livestock sector and provide significant employment opportunities. At the same time, the Mbatyiav Cement Company and the BENCO Roof Tile facility will bolster our construction industry, generating further economic growth. The renovation of the Taraku Mills will significantly enhance the production capacity and efficiency of several key products, including premium vegetable oil, nutritious soybean meal, versatile maize flour, coarse maize grits, and a variety of animal feeds. This upgrade will not only increase the overall output of the mill but also improve product quality, resulting in greater nutritional value and enhanced competitiveness in the market. These initiatives are not mere luxuries; they are necessities that prioritize the needs of our people during an era of high unemployment. Even if some of these projects are initiated at the planning and pilot stages, their implementation will set Benue State firmly on the path towards modernity and sustainable development. Most importantly, this initiative will illustrate that Alia’s leadership is not merely reactive to the immediate needs of today; rather, it is a forward-thinking strategy that is committed to creating a vibrant, prosperous Makurdi today and beyond.

For those of us eagerly anticipating the evolution of leadership now and in the future, it is essential to embrace a key principle: true leadership maturity is defined not by condemnation, but by the capacity to commend and support bold and decisive actions, even when initiated by those we may consider political adversaries. Governor Alia’s two years in office have illustrated that significant and transformative achievements can indeed occur in a relatively brief timeframe. However, the challenge ahead extends beyond merely celebrating past successes; it requires us to dare to envision a future ambitious enough to establish solid foundations—foundations that will not only yield immediate benefits but also shape the future of Benue for generations to come. Therefore, my message is both straightforward and clear: we must prioritize and unite around vision and innovation, rather than succumbing to the pitfalls of political opportunism or banditry. It is essential to advocate for the continuity of progress, avoiding chaos and uncertainty. When evaluating leadership, we should consider not only the tangible projects accomplished during a term but also the strong systems and foundational structures established for a sustainable future.

For those aspiring to challenge Governor Alia in the upcoming 2027 elections, please take the crucial first step in establishing your credibility: conduct a thorough analysis of his achievements and acknowledge the value they bring to our community. Next, you must clearly articulate a vision that demonstrates how your plans can build upon and enhance those accomplishments. The residents of Benue are perceptive and attentive; they recognize the improvements made in infrastructure, such as roads, educational institutions, and the university, along with other significant initiatives. Ignoring these advancements only undermines your credibility as a potential leader. The primary duty of any aspiring leader is not to diminish the progress that has been achieved but to present a compelling case for how your leadership can attain even greater results. This is the essence of authentic leadership emerging in our landscape. Leadership is defined not only by past accomplishments but also by the vision and direction for future achievements.

To the media team of Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia, your pivotal role is to amplify the visibility and transparency surrounding the governor’s ambitious vision for our beloved state. Recently, I had the opportunity to explore several initiatives that the governor has launched, particularly those presented through Haakyav Tombu Peter (also known as Ordubu Deri) on his social media platform. These initiatives left me both intrigued and surprised by the limited awareness surrounding them. While some citizens may have caught a glimpse of these critical programs, it is evident that there has been a significant gap in consistent representation across both social media and traditional media channels, including the Alia TV network. This underrepresentation has hindered the governor’s ability to engage with the public on these transformative ideas fully. Therefore, I urge you to intensify your efforts in delivering the governor’s vision through a more robust and synchronized communication strategy. The residents of Benue, whether they are living within the state or residing abroad, deserve to be fully informed about the significant progress this administration is making across various sectors, including healthcare, education, infrastructure, and economic development. As citizens, we bear a responsibility to participate in this essential discourse by remaining informed and engaged, so that we can collectively contribute to the ongoing dialogue regarding our state’s future. Let us join forces to ensure that the remarkable progress being made is effectively communicated to everyone, cultivating a sense of community and shared purpose among the people of Benue.

Let us take a moment to cultivate patience during this crucial period. We must provide Governor Alia with the necessary space to implement his vision effectively. We should continue to extend our steadfast support to ensure his success, while also offering constructive criticism that keeps him focused on his goals. Our collective voices should resonate with a spirit of collaboration and partnership, rather than simply expressing dissent or protest. Benue has consistently demonstrated remarkable resilience, showcasing our true strength through our ability to endure challenges and rebuild in the face of adversity. As we embark on this journey together, let us lean on patience, support one another in prayer, and establish partnerships that drive us forward. If we sow the seeds of cooperation today, we will ultimately witness them flourish into the fruitful harvest of a brighter tomorrow. In light of this, I sincerely urge you, my fellow sons and daughters of Benue: let us remain steadfast in our faith. We must continue to uphold our prayers for the administration, actively support its initiatives, and engage in constructive and respectful dialogue. If we preserve our unity and embody the spirit of patience, a renewed and vibrant Benue will soon brighten our lives, bringing prosperity and progress to our cherished state.

Let us join together as architects of a brighter future by uniting as one and setting aside our individual differences. We must foster meaningful dialogue and collaboration, both among ourselves and with our leaders. Your voices are vital, and your contributions are invaluable. Let us engage in open discussions about the pressing needs of our communities, whether that involves enhancing our infrastructure, improving education and healthcare services, or addressing the agricultural challenges faced by our farmers. I invite each of you to embark on this journey of reflection and action as we collectively endeavor to create a more prosperous and harmonious environment for ourselves and future generations. Together, we can overcome the obstacles in our path and seize the opportunities that await us. I hope this letter catalyzes change and unity among us.

In solidarity and hope,

Matthew Ma, S. J. 

Rev. Ma, S. J., is a Jesuit Catholic priest of the North West Africa Province of the Society of Jesus. He currently writes from Abuja, Nigeria.