By Peter Duru, Makurdi

The Shitile Rebirth Forum (SRF) in Katsina-Ala has commended the Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia of Benue State for what it described as visionary leadership and inclusive governance that has begun to positively impact the Shitile nation.

Addressing journalists, weekend, at the NUJ House Makurdi, the socio-cultural organisation led by Barr Manasseh Agboh expressed deep appreciation to Governor Alia for his interventions in key sectors, in education and community development, particularly the approval for the renovation of primary school in Abaji and Tor-Donga, as well as the upgrade of Shitile Community Secondary School, Tor-Donga, to a full-fledged Science and Technical College.

According to SRF, the governor’s actions demonstrate a clear understanding of the role of education, science and technical skills in youth empowerment and long-term economic growth.

“For decades, the Shitile Nation yearned for peace and meaningful educational infrastructure capable of competing at state, national and global levels,” the Forum said.

It added that the newly approved Science and Technical College would enhance access to quality education, create jobs, attract development and promote self-reliance among Shitile youths, while also opening opportunities for employment in government ministries, agencies and institutions.

The Forum further appealed to the governor to appoint and recruit more Shitile sons and daughters into his administration and to confirm Parent-Teacher Association and casual staff in government schools in Shitile land to permanent Teaching Service Board positions to boost morale and productivity.

SRF also praised the governor’s inclusive approach to governance, singling out the General Manager of Benue Links Transportation company, Comrade Alexander Fanafa, for commendation. “His leadership has been marked by efficiency, people-centred service delivery and tangible impact,” the Forum noted.

In the transport sector, the group applauded the revival of the Benue Links terminal in Katsina-Ala and the reduction in transport fares, which it said had eased movement between Makurdi and Katsina-Ala. It, however, appealed for the extension of a Benue Links terminal to Tor-Donga to further boost mobility and trade in the area.

The Forum also commended the member representing Katsina-Ala/Ukum/Logo Federal Constituency, Prince Solomon Wombo, describing him as deserving of his recent traditional title, Imenger-I-Tiv. It cited his “effective representation, strategic support and prompt intervention” during insecurity incidents in parts of the constituency.

Similarly, SRF lauded the Chairman of Katsina-Ala LGA, Dr. Shaku Orangoholga, for what it called dedication to grassroots development, security and infrastructure, including the ongoing Tor-Donga–Tacha Road project and other social initiatives.

While acknowledging these achievements, the Forum appealed for the construction of key roads, including the Tor-Donga-Zaki-Biam Road, Gbise-Degarr Road and Abaji-Chir-Akera Road, saying the projects would open up the area economically, enhance security and eliminate criminal hideouts.

On healthcare, the group called for the completion of the Abaji-Mbamtsar Road to ease access to the Federal Medical Centre annex in Mbamtsar, noting that improved access would strengthen emergency healthcare and agricultural development in the axis. It also requested the posting of more health workers to primary healthcare centres across Shitile land.

The Forum used the occasion to condemn what it described as heinous and criminal activities threatening peace in the area, distancing the Shitile Nation from violence and lawlessness. It urged traditional rulers, youths and stakeholders to embrace peace and support ongoing peace-building efforts led by the state government and religious leaders.

“We will stand firmly with leaders who demonstrate capacity, compassion, accountability and courage in governance,” the Forum declared, adding that sustainable development can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace, mutual respect and collective responsibility.

The group announced a formal vote of confidence in Governor Alia, Prince Wombo, Dr. Orangoholga, Comrade Fanafa and other Shitile indigenes serving in the current administration, declaring that the Shitile Nation was firmly “on the path of rebirth and transformation.”

In his remarks, the Chairman of NUJ Benue State Council, Comrade Bemdoo Ugber, thanked the SRF for coming to the NUJ House, assuring the group of maximum publicity. “As the umbrella body of journalists, we remain committed to providing a neutral and professional platform for democratic expression,” he said.