BROADCAST BY HIS EXCELLENCY, REV. FR. DR. HYACINTH IORMEM ALIA, EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF BENUE STATE, ON INTERNATIONAL YOUTH DAY, 12TH AUGUST 2024

Fellow Citizens of Benue State,

I am delighted to join you and indeed the world in celebrating this special day, the “International Youth Day”. I extend my heartfelt greetings to the vibrant, resilient and resourceful youth of Benue State. Today is a day to recognize and appreciate the indomitable spirit you possess, the “I can do” attitude that you have consistently demonstrated in the face of numerous challenges.

2.​The youth constitute over 60% of the Benue population. You are not just our future; you are our present, our driving force and the bedrock upon which the greatness of Benue is built. Despite the tough times, you have shown steadfastness, resilience and an unyielding determination to rise above every obstacle.

3.​I am proud of the strides some of you are making in various fields such as education, entrepreneurship, sports and technology. Your innovation and creativity continue to inspire hope and confidence in the future of our great state and the nation in general.

4.​As your government, we are fully committed to ensuring that your potential is harnessed and your dreams are realized. We understand that the development of our youth is a panacea for the development of Benue State. This is why we have embarked on several initiatives aimed at empowering you and creating opportunities for your growth.

5.​In partnership with Google, we have commenced the training of 10,000 youth in Information and Communication Technology (ICT). This initiative is designed to equip you with the skills needed to compete in the digital economy, opening doors to endless opportunities.Very shortly, some youth of the state will be participating in the UN Volunteer Scheme, which our administration has collaborated with the United Nations to sponsor.

6.​The ongoing renovation of Aper Aku Stadium is a testament to our commitment to bringing sporting activities back into the state. We believe in the power of sports to unite, inspireand provide a platform for our teeming youth to showcase their talents. Our administration within the near future will embark on developing sporting facilities in each of the three senatorial zones of the State.

7.​We are also constructing a Fashion Hub, a space where creativity meets opportunity. This hub will not only encourage creativity but also create jobs with a view to fostering a new generation of fashion entrepreneurs from Benue.

8.​Furthermore, we are committed to improving our infrastructure, healthcare, education and security apparatus. These foundational pillars are essential for the long-term growth and prosperity of our state. We will continue to work diligently to ensure that Benue State remains a beacon of progress and stability.

9.​Meanwhile, discussions under my watch, are ongoing with all government ministries, agencies and departments, geared towards creating avenues for youth engagement and empowerment.

10.​I urge you to continue to support and cooperate with our administration as we navigate these challenging times. Your patience and understanding are invaluable as we strive to implement policies that will bring about meaningful and lasting change.

11.​I must also take this moment to commend you for your maturity and wisdom in the recent nationwide #EndBadGovernance protest. I deeply appreciate your decision not to take to the streets in a manner that could have led to the destruction of infrastructure and resources that we are painstakingly developing for the benefit of all. Your trust in this administration and your belief in peaceful dialogue over violence is commendable and reflects the maturity that will surely take our state to greater heights.

12.​However, I am aware of the challenges posed by insecurity, much of which, regrettably, involves some of our youth. I urge those who are engaged in causing mayhem to lay down their arms, embrace peace and choose the path of constructive engagement. Drug abuse, cultism, internet fraud popularly known as Yahoo, Yahoo and other social vices are a cankerworm that I urge you never to allow into your fold. The future we are building is yours and it is imperative that you protect it, not destroy it. Criminality only leads to a dead end; peace and hard work on the other hand, lead to prosperity and fulfillment.

13.​The doors are open for you to participate actively in the various empowerment programmes created by our administration to enhance your lives rather than condemning the good intentions of the government on social media.

14.​Let me assure you that this administration is doing everything possible to create an atmosphere conducive for your trajectory to success. Your priorities are my priorities, and as we continue to work together, I am confident that we will lead Benue State to even greater heights.

15.​I thank the youth and all the good people of Benue for your contributions, your trust and your unwavering belief in the brighter future we are building together. Let this International Youth Day be a reminder of your strength, your potential, and the bright future that lies ahead.

16.​God bless the youth of Benue State. God bless Benue State. God bless Nigeria.

17.​Thank you all.