Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has officially introduced the state’s anthem and symbols, marking a significant step in preserving and promoting the region’s cultural identity. The grand unveiling took place on Saturday night in Makurdi, where the governor emphasized that these symbols embody the values, history, and unity of the Benue people.
To solidify their significance, Governor Alia announced plans to send an Executive Bill to the House of Assembly, ensuring their formal adoption. He highlighted the symbols as essential tools for showcasing Benue’s uniqueness, fostering tourism, and attracting investment.
“These symbols are not just for aesthetics or promotion; they remind us of our struggles and triumphs. They inspire us to strive for greatness and reinforce our unity despite our diversity,” Alia stated.
Encouraging citizens to embrace the new identity markers, he urged them to wear and display them with pride, showcasing what it means to be a true Benue citizen. He described the anthem and symbols as a “gift to the state and its people.”
However, the unveiling has not been without controversy. The introduction of a new Benue logo sparked criticism, with some citizens accusing the governor of attempting to Christianize the state by including a cross in the design. Detractors argue that Benue belongs to people of all faiths and that the logo should reflect the religious diversity of its population.
Despite the backlash, Governor Alia commended the committee responsible for the initiative, acknowledging their dedication and expertise. He also expressed gratitude to everyone who submitted entries, recognizing their creativity and contribution to shaping Benue’s identity.
Beyond the unveiling, the governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to development, emphasizing improvements in healthcare, education, and security. He revealed plans to recruit 9,700 new teachers and ensure the return of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) to their ancestral homes.
Chairman of the State Symbols Screening Committee, retired Justice Augustine Utsaha, hailed the initiative as long overdue, praising the governor’s dedication to infrastructure and human capital development. Secretary of the committee, Chief Solomon Iorpev, disclosed that 119 entries were submitted for the state symbols, with the final anthem emerging from the top five selections.
With the unveiling of these symbols, Benue State takes a bold step toward strengthening its cultural pride and identity, even as debates continue over the inclusivity of the new designs.