Benue youths urged to shun vices and seize opportunities for state development

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has called on the state's youth to embrace opportunities, develop essential skills, and reject social vices to contribute effectively to the development of both the state and the nation. Speaking at the 2026 International Youth Day celebration in Makurdi, the governor stressed the importance of youth engagement.

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Young people are partners in building a virile society in every aspect. Since you possess the capacity to transform the nation, your voice must be heard loudly.

Represented by his deputy, Dr. Samuel Ode, Governor Alia commended the youths for their support, recognizing them as vital partners in the state's progress. He urged young people to take the lead in societal transformation, asserting that their voices are crucial in matters concerning the future of Benue and Nigeria. "Young people are partners in building a virile society in every aspect," he stated, encouraging them to "ask questions, provoke challenges and seek solutions."

The governor highlighted that his administration is committed to fostering an environment where young people can thrive. He noted the existing contributions of youth in agriculture, artisanship, sports, and technology, urging them to further embrace these sectors, along with active political participation, while rejecting negative influences. "You are strategically located at the heart of this administration. Government looks up to you towards building the society through innovation, farming and other ventures with the capacity to create jobs," he added.

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You are strategically located at the heart of this administration. Government looks up to you towards building the society through innovation, farming and other ventures with the capacity to create jobs.

Earlier, Ojotu Ojema, the occasion's chairman and a member of the House of Representatives, echoed the sentiment, describing youths as critical partners and custodians of Benue's future. He challenged them to envision the state they wish to inherit and the leadership required to achieve it. Ojema identified unemployment and insecurity as major threats, urging the youth to unite against these challenges, regardless of political, ethnic, or religious differences, to build a safer and more prosperous Benue.

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Together, we can build a safer, more peaceful and more prosperous Benue where every young person can live, work and pursue their dreams without fear.