Citizen Television, Office No. 22 Uptown Plaza Beside Makurdi International Market, George Akume Way, Makurdi (2025)

04/09/2025

BENUE STATE SHINES IN DIGITAL ERA: BDIC Inducts 102 Students, Launches 'One Student, One Skill, One Computer' Program

By: Iorfa Akpen

In a bid to further entrench Benue State in the digital landscape, the Benue State Digital Infrastructure Company (BDIC) recently inducted 102 pioneer students of its Summer Tech Training Program. The event also marked the launch of the "One Student, One Skill, One Computer" program, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering the youth with digital skills and tools.

Representing the Executive Governor of Benue State, His Excellency Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, the Deputy Governor, Dr. Sam Ode MNI, expressed the administration's commitment to putting Benue State on the world map through digital innovation. He highlighted the governor's proactive approach, citing the executive order signed in 2024 for the installation of fiber optics in all ministries and agencies of government.

The Director-General of BDIC, Hon. Terwase Gbande, reaffirmed the company's dedication to working in line with the principles of the Alia-led administration. He urged parents to avail their children for the training, assuring that no child in Benue State would be left behind in the digital revolution.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of tablets to the 102 students who completed the training program. Certificates were also awarded to the students, marking a significant milestone in their digital journey.

The Summer Tech Training Program is part of BDIC's efforts to bridge the digital divide and equip the youth with the skills needed to thrive in the 21st century. By launching the "One Student, One Skill, One Computer" program, BDIC is taking a giant leap towards ensuring that every student in Benue State has access to digital tools and skills.

The program is expected to have a far-reaching impact on the state's development, as it will enable students to participate fully in the digital economy. With this initiative, Benue State is poised to become a hub for digital innovation and entrepreneurship.

The event was attended by various stakeholders, including government officials, parents, and students. All expressed optimism about the potential of the program to transform the lives of Benue State's youth and propel the state towards a brighter future.

By empowering students with digital skills and tools, BDIC is not only enhancing their employability but also opening up new opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship. This is in line with Governor Alia's vision for a digitally empowered Benue State.

The "One Student, One Skill, One Computer" program is a testament to the commitment of the Benue State government to harness the power of technology for development. As the program rolls out, it is expected to have a multiplier effect on the state's economy and society at large.

BDIC's efforts to promote digital literacy and innovation in Benue State are commendable. The company's initiatives are set to revolutionize the state's digital landscape and position Benue State as a leader in digital innovation.

The induction of the 102 pioneer students and the launch of the "One Student, One Skill, One Computer" program mark a significant milestone in Benue State's digital journey. With the support of the government and stakeholders, BDIC is poised to make a lasting impact on the lives of Benue State's youth and the state's development as a whole.

03/09/2025

JUST IN: Gov. Alia Assigns Portfolios to Newly Appointed Commissioners in Benue

Makurdi – Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia has officially assigned portfolios to the newly appointed commissioners in Benue State, marking a significant step in his administration’s governance structure.

The announcement, made on Wednesday, allocated key ministries to the commissioners who were recently sworn in. According to the list released, the following appointments were made:

Hon. Dr. Paul Ejeh Ogwuche – Commissioner for Health and Human Services

Dr. Ortese Yanmar – Commissioner for Cooperative and Rural Development

Dr. Fredrick Ikyaan – Commissioner for Lands

Hon. Michael Oglegba – Commissioner for Finance

Tiza Isaac Imojime – Commissioner for Youth Creativity and Development

Hon. Alumo Orpin – Commissioner for Industry, Trade and Investment

Hon. Ugwu Odoh – Commissioner for Water Resources

Hon. Kunde Aondowase – Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs

Hon. Kwaghgba Amande – Commissioner for ICT and Digital Economy

Hon. Joseph Ter Jir – Commissioner for Transportation, Power and Energy

Hon. James Dwem – Commissioner for Science and Technology

Dr. Ornguga Yangien – Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General of the State

Hon. Theresa Odachi Ikwue – Commissioner for Women Affairs

Dr. Benjamin Ashaver – Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Management

Dr. Adamu Margaret Ijaguwa – Commissioner for Education and Knowledge Management

Dr. Peter Oboh Egbodo – Commissioner for Information

Hon. Dennis Iyaighgba – Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy

Governor Alia urged the commissioners to bring innovation, transparency, and dedication to their respective ministries, stressing that the administration’s focus remains on delivering people-centered governance, boosting economic growth, and ensuring security across Benue State.

He also appealed to the people of the state to cooperate with the new commissioners as they embark on their assignments.

03/09/2025

JUSTIN: DSS Arraigns Nine Over Yelwata, Plateau Killings, Gunrunning Charges

The Department of State Services (DSS) on Wednesday arraigned nine suspects before the Federal High Court in Abuja over their alleged roles in the deadly attack on Yelwata, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, and parts of Plateau State.

The defendants, facing six separate charges, appeared before Justice Emeka Nwite to take their pleas. They were accused of terrorism-related offences, including unlawful possession of fi****ms, conspiracy, and aiding terrorist activities.

DSS counsel, Calistus Eze, told the court that the charges were filed on August 28. In one of the charges, marked FHC/ABJ/CR/449/2025, two defendants, Haruna Adamu and Muhammad Abdullahi of Awe LGA, Nasarawa State, were alleged to have conspired with others still at large to carry out the June 13 attacks on Abinsi and Yelwata villages.

The coordinated violence left several people dead, many injured, and displaced hundreds in Benue and Plateau States. The DSS said the offences contravened Section 12 of the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act, 2022.

After pleading not guilty, Justice Nwite ordered that the defendants be remanded in DSS custody but granted them access to their lawyers.

For the cases involving Ashuwa, Alede, and Halima Umar, the judge adjourned proceedings until October 2 for trial. He also fixed October 17 for hearings in the charges against Manjo and Tali, as well as Antu and Oloche.

Meanwhile, the DSS on Wednesday filed a fresh five-count charge against a suspected gunrunner, Huzaifa Ahamad Haruna, also known as Huzaifa Dogo, who was allegedly arrested in possession of seven M16 assault rifles.

03/09/2025

Allegations of Relief Material Diversion Rock Benue IDP Camps

Serious allegations have surfaced over the handling of relief materials for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Benue State, with claims that supplies meant for vulnerable families are being diverted to politicians and private interests.

In a petition addressed to Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia, Barrister Franc Fagah Utôô, a legal practitioner, social activist, and policy researcher at the University of Central Oklahoma, accused officials of the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA), working in concert with individuals in the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, of misappropriating food items and other relief materials.

Utôô, a native of Yelewata, alleged that while thousands of displaced persons languish in camps without food, clean drinking water, or proper sanitation, “officials are giving out thousands of bags of rice and other supplies donated by kindhearted individuals and organizations to politicians and themselves.”

The petition comes against the backdrop of mounting calls for accountability over the Yelewata massacre. Campaigners under the movement have been pressing for the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the killings and their sponsors.

Today marks the 76th day since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu directed the Inspector General of Police and the Chief of Defence Staff to ensure that perpetrators of the Yelewata attacks are brought to justice. Activists say they will continue to remind the government of the president’s directive until decisive steps are taken.

As of the time of filing this report, the Benue State Government and the agencies implicated in the petition are yet to respond publicly to the allegations.

03/09/2025

Snake Bite Claims Life of 14-Year-Old IDP in Benue

A 14-year-old Internally Displaced Person (IDP), Chagu Terhemen, has died after suffering a snake bite while on his way to the farm with his father in Gwer West Local Government Area of Benue State.

The incident occurred on Friday at Tse Kyomke Mbapupuu in Gaambe Ushin Council Ward. Witnesses said the teenager began to convulse despite undergoing traditional treatment, raising fears about his condition.

One of the displaced persons, Terna Ibaah, who had earlier raised alarm on Sunday, confirmed to Punch Newspaper on Tuesday that Terhemen was rushed to the Benue State University Teaching Hospital, Makurdi, on the directive of the Executive Secretary of the State Emergency and Management Agency (SEMA), James Iorpuu.

According to Ibaah, the boy sadly passed away on Monday night, September 1.
“The Benue State SEMA boss, Mr. Iorpuu James Aondoakaa, ordered that the boy be taken to the Benue State University Teaching Hospital for treatment but he died yesterday (Monday) night,” he said.

Ibaah also revealed that snake bites have been a recurring threat in Agagbe IDP camps. Between January and August this year, 12 victims were recorded, though Terhemen’s case was the first fatality.

The tragic death highlights the precarious conditions of IDPs in Benue, who not only face insecurity but also life-threatening health challenges in their temporary settlements

03/09/2025

Arrest Warrant on NKST Pastor Igber Sparks Controversy

The NKST Church has been thrown into fresh controversy following reports of a warrant of arrest allegedly issued against Rev. Pastor Fanen Igber.

The matter gained traction after a viral social media post claimed that a Makurdi court had ordered the pastor’s arrest. The report sparked heated reactions among church members, many of whom dismissed it as “fake news.” The NKST Synod Media Director also debunked the claims, saying the church had no official knowledge of such a case.

However, the author of the viral post D'naked Elder Zege'Orkwande insisted the story is true and published what he described as “evidence.” This included an acknowledged letter from the Deputy Commissioner of Police, CID Makurdi, served on the NKST Synod Secretariat, a warrant of arrest allegedly issued by CMD 1 Court, Makurdi on August 14, 2025, and a report by Leadership newspaper dated August 28, 2025, which also mentioned the warrant.

The writer accused his critics of double standards for attacking him while ignoring the newspaper publication. He further claimed to have received threats and insults since making the report public.

“If NKST wants to take me to court, I’m ready,” he said, insisting he remains a committed member of the church but would continue to “deal with facts.”

As of the time of filing this report, the NKST leadership has not made any further public statement on the matter.

03/09/2025

UAST Ihugh Begins Sale of Forms for 2025/2026 Pre-Science/Remedial Programmes

The University of Agriculture, Science and Technology (UAST), Ihugh, Benue State, has announced the commencement of sales of application forms for admission into its 2025/2026 Pre-Science/Remedial Science Programme.

In a statement signed by the Registrar, Dr. Johnson Ijale Echor, the university explained that the one-year remedial programme will serve as a pathway to admission into its undergraduate degree programmes across various schools.

UAST Ihugh was established in 2024 by the Benue State Government and received its operational license from the National Universities Commission (NUC) in 2025. The institution has a mandate to provide polymathic education with a focus on agriculture, agribusiness, science, technology, innovation, medical sciences, engineering, and allied fields.

Successful candidates from the remedial programme will have the opportunity to gain admission into degree programmes in schools such as Precision Agriculture, Computing and Innovation, Sustainable Forestry and Green Economy, Chemical Sciences and Technology, Basic Medical Sciences, Clinical Sciences, Engineering and Technology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Fisheries and Blue Economy, Livestock and Animal Biotechnology, and Allied Health Sciences.

To qualify, applicants must possess at least four O’Level credits in English Language, Mathematics or Further Mathematics, Chemistry or Physics, and Biology or Agricultural Science in WASSCE, SSCE, GCE, or its equivalent.

Application forms can be obtained online at bsuast.edu.ng after payment of a non-refundable fee of ₦10,000 into the university’s designated Fidelity Bank account (Account Name: University of Agriculture, Science and Technology Ihugh Application Forms Account; Account Number: 5030161157). Proof of payment should be submitted to the Bursar’s Office at the university’s take-off campus, Ihugh-Korinya Road, Vandeikya Local Government Area, Benue State.

For further enquiries, applicants are advised to contact +2348065365620.

02/09/2025

RE-ELECT GOVERNOR ALIA: Private Secretary Urges Benue People to Register for Voter Cards

By: Iorfa Akpen

The Private Secretary to Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia of Benue State, Angula Bishop Reuben, has called on the people of Benue to take advantage of the ongoing voter registration exercise to register their wards who have turned 18. Speaking in a telephone interview with Iorfa Akpen, State Correspondent of The People's Reporter, Reuben emphasized the importance of massive registration to re-elect Governor Alia in the 2027 general elections.

Reuben, who hails from Mbayegh Mbaikyer Council Ward of Konshisha Local Government Area, urged constituents to support Governor Alia's administration, which has been working tirelessly to turn around the fortune of Benue State. According to him, sustaining support for the governor is crucial for the state's progress and development.

The Private Secretary's call to action highlights Governor Alia's achievements since taking office on May 29, 2023. Under his leadership, the state has seen significant improvements in education, healthcare, infrastructure, youth empowerment, and humanitarian services. The governor's policies have garnered widespread acclaim, solidifying his reputation as a leader dedicated to the welfare of his people.

Reuben appealed to the entire Benue people to come out in their numbers to participate in the voter registration exercise. By doing so, they can show their support for Governor Alia and make their voices heard in the electoral process. This, he said, is essential for the state's future and the continuation of good governance.

Governor Alia's administration has been recognized for its commitment to grassroots development and people-oriented policies. His leadership style has earned him several awards, including the "Governor of the Year" award by Leadership Newspaper. These accolades are a testament to his dedication to public service and his vision for Benue State's progress.

The Private Secretary's remarks underscore the importance of voter registration in shaping the future of Benue State. By registering to vote, citizens can exercise their right to choose their leaders and hold them accountable for their actions. This is a crucial step towards ensuring that the state continues on the path of progress and development.

Reuben's call to action is a reminder that the 2027 general elections will be a critical test of Governor Alia's leadership and the people's trust in him. By participating in large numbers in the voter registration exercise, citizens can demonstrate their commitment to democracy and good governance.

As Governor Alia's administration continues to work towards improving the lives of Benue people, the support of the citizens is crucial. Reuben's appeal to the people to sustain their support for the governor is a call to action that resonates with the governor's vision for the state.

The Private Secretary's remarks highlight the significance of voter registration and the role it plays in shaping the future of Benue State. By registering to vote, citizens can exercise their rights and make their voices heard, ultimately determining the course of the state's development.

02/09/2025

Tinubu Deploys Security to Katsina, Approves Drones to Tackle Banditry

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the deployment of advanced military hardware and surveillance gadgets, including drones, to Katsina State as part of renewed efforts to curb banditry and restore peace.

The President made the pledge on Tuesday in Abuja while receiving a delegation of eminent citizens of the state led by Governor Dikko Umaru Radda at the State House.

Tinubu said the federal government was also considering the establishment of state police and strengthening of newly deployed forest guards to improve security at the grassroots.

“The security challenges that we are facing are surmountable. Yes, we have porous borders. We inherited weaknesses that could have been addressed earlier. It is a challenge that we must fix, and we are facing it,” the President stated.

He added: “I have today directed all the security agencies to energise further and look at the strategies. We have approved the additional acquisition of drones. I am reviewing all aspects of security; I have to create a state police. We are looking at that holistically. We will defeat insecurity.”

The President directed daily operational feedback from security agencies in Katsina, stressing that the government must protect lives, livelihoods, worship centres, and recreational spaces from criminals.

Tinubu also assured the delegation that the late former President Muhammadu Buhari would be immortalised, describing him as a leader who left behind “a legacy of success.”

Governor Radda expressed gratitude to the President for his consistent support to Katsina in terms of appointments and infrastructure, while appealing for more intervention in security, youth empowerment, and development projects.

Former Governor Aminu Bello Masari thanked Tinubu for honouring Buhari with a “true state funeral,” pledging the continued loyalty of the state.

Also speaking, the Waziri of Katsina, Senator Ibrahim Ida, commended the President’s commitment to completing the Kano-Maradi Rail project but urged an upgrade of the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport and greater security attention for southern Katsina.

02/09/2025

Benue Priest Joins Nigerian Army

Lt. (Rev. Fr.) Simon F. Yateghtegh, a Catholic priest from the Diocese of Gboko, has officially joined the Nigerian Army as a Chaplain.

Ordained on July 4, 2020, at the Church of the Presentation, Bam, Yateghtegh entered the Army through the Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC) Course 27, where he excelled as a Cadet Senior Under Officer (CSUO).

In his new role, he will provide spiritual and moral guidance to officers and soldiers, combining his priestly calling with patriotic service.

Congratulations have poured in for the priest, who has been praised for honoring both God and country with faith, courage, and dedication..

02/09/2025

Non-Academic Staff, SSANU of Adasu University Declare Indefinite Strike

The Joint Action Congress (JAC) of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU) at Moses Orshio Adasu University, formerly Benue State University, has declared an indefinite and total strike.

The unions said the action was prompted by the government’s failure to implement several key welfare measures. These include the new national minimum wage, the 25% and 35% wage awards approved by the Federal Government to cushion the impact of fuel subsidy removal, and the delayed implementation of staff promotions for 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024.

Union leaders emphasized that the strike would continue until these longstanding issues are fully resolved.

The industrial action is expected to cripple administrative and support services at the institution, heightening fears of disruptions to the university’s operations.

02/09/2025

BIPC to Build Eco City Estate in Makurdi

The Benue Investment and Property Company (BIPC) has unveiled plans to build an Eco City Estate in Makurdi, the Benue State capital.

According to the company, the project will provide modern housing and create a sustainable urban community that meets global standards.

The estate is designed to promote eco-friendly living, with emphasis on green spaces, renewable energy, and affordable housing for residents.

BIPC said the initiative aligns with the state government’s vision of transforming Makurdi into a hub of modern real estate development and economic growth.

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