News

June 21, 2025

Benue Killings: Business leader Ekason unveils peace-driven infrastructure, jobs initiative

Benue Killings: Business leader Ekason unveils peace-driven infrastructure, jobs initiative

Amid national outrage over the gruesome killing of over 200 innocent people in Benue State, renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist, Ambassador Eka A’adu Dickson—popularly known as Ekason—has unveiled a bold initiative aimed at promoting peace, healing, and economic recovery in the state.

Ekason, Chairman of the Ekason Group, condemned the massacre as a grievous assault on human dignity, calling for justice and immediate action to prevent further bloodshed.

“We must not grow numb to this level of violence,” he told journalists during a press engagement in Makurdi. “The death of over 200 people is not just a statistic—it is a scar on our collective conscience. I condemn this act in its entirety.”

While urging security agencies to bring the perpetrators to book, Ekason emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach involving government, civil society, traditional institutions, and the private sector to address the root causes of insecurity in the region.

As part of his commitment to peace and development, Ekason announced the construction of Ekason Signature—a world-class entertainment and lifestyle complex designed to serve as a social and economic anchor for Benue’s youth and broader community.

The facility, located opposite the Aminu Isa Kontagora Arts Theatre in Makurdi, will feature: A modern event arena, Children’s play and leisure park, Open-air stage for performances and cultural festivals, A luxury restaurant and lounge, A premium nightclub, Landscaped gardens and relaxation zones.

According to Ekason, the project is not just an investment in infrastructure but a response to emotional and psychological wounds inflicted by years of conflict and loss.

“This center is being built to help our people breathe again. We want to create an environment that inspires creativity, unity, and healing—especially for our young people,” he said.

He praised Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia for his commitment to security and development, and encouraged stakeholders across the board to complement the government’s efforts with constructive investment and responsible citizenship.

The Ekason Signature project is projected to generate hundreds of jobs in hospitality, logistics, entertainment, tourism, and support services. It also aims to serve as a unifying space for cultural expression and youth-driven enterprise.

Ekason dedicated the project to the memory of the victims of the recent violence, promising that the grand opening would be a tribute to their lives.

“We are building this as a monument of hope. In honor of the lives lost, we are choosing to invest in peace, to create joy, and to show that Benue will not only survive—but thrive.”

With construction already underway, Ekason Signature is poised to become a transformative symbol in Benue’s path to healing and stability—where tragedy meets purpose, and leadership meets responsibility.