Business leader hails Benue at 50, reflects on state’s growth, legacy

Chief Ambassador Eka A’adu Dickson, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Ekason Group of Companies, has congratulated the government and people of Benue State on the 50th anniversary of the state’s creation, describing the milestone as a celebration of resilience, leadership and development. In a statement to mark the anniversary, Dickson commended Governor Hyacinth Iormem […]

Chief Ambassador Eka A’adu Dickson, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Ekason Group of Companies, has congratulated the government and people of Benue State on the 50th anniversary of the state’s creation, describing the milestone as a celebration of resilience, leadership and development.

In a statement to mark the anniversary, Dickson commended Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia and Deputy Governor Samuel Ode for what he described as their commitment to inclusive governance and development in the state.

Benue State was created on February 3, 1976, during the administration of the late Murtala Mohammed, following the split of the former Benue-Plateau State. The state is named after the River Benue and is widely referred to as the “Food Basket of the Nation” due to its agricultural output, including yams, rice, soybeans and sesame.

Dickson noted that beyond agriculture, Benue has over the decades developed in areas such as education, culture and leadership. He highlighted institutions such as Benue State University and the Benue State University Teaching Hospital as key contributions to human capital development and healthcare delivery.

The business leader also referenced the role of Benue indigenes in national leadership, noting that the state has produced prominent political figures, including former Senate Presidents, ministers and party leaders who have played significant roles in Nigeria’s political history.

He further acknowledged contributions from Benue in academia, science, sports and entertainment, citing scholars, scientists and athletes from the state who have attained national and international recognition.

On infrastructure, Dickson said Benue had recorded visible development in recent years, including road projects and urban infrastructure in Makurdi and other parts of the state, as well as reforms aimed at improving the welfare of pensioners.

He also drew attention to the role of traditional institutions in preserving the state’s cultural heritage, referencing the Tor Tiv and Och’Idoma stools as symbols of continuity and leadership among the Tiv and Idoma people.

Dickson described the 50th anniversary as an opportunity to reflect on Benue’s journey since its creation and to look ahead to future development, expressing optimism that the state would continue to build on its agricultural strength, cultural heritage and human resources in the years ahead.