By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

The Secretary to the Benue State Government (SSG), Deaconess Deborah Aber, has described the National Youth Alliance (NYA) as a laudable initiative, commending its National President, Ambassador Aliyu Bin Abbas, for what she termed exemplary leadership qualities.

Aber ,according to a statement ,spoke in Makurdi during a youth seminar themed “Birthing a New Nation”, held at the Dream Event Centre, alongside the inauguration of 121 NYA coordinators for the North Central zone.

She congratulated the newly inaugurated coordinators and symbolically conferred a Tiv name, “Terhemen,” meaning “Father Leads,” on the NYA President, in recognition of his leadership.

The SSG praised the vision of the NYA leadership and reaffirmed the Benue State Government’s commitment to youth-friendly policies, noting that the administration of Governor Hyacinth Alia has continued to integrate young people into governance.
She urged youths to remain focused, productive, and supportive of initiatives that promote development.

In his welcome address, Abbas said the NYA was established in the aftermath of the 2023 general elections to promote a “new Nigeria” devoid of electoral malpractice and systemic irregularities.

He explained that the group’s guiding philosophy, captured in its slogan “Birthing a New Nigeria,” is aimed at rebuilding national values and strengthening democratic accountability.

The NYA President emphasized that the alliance is non-partisan and not opposed to government but remains committed to holding leaders accountable. He added that the organisation is funded by like-minded individuals within Nigeria and the diaspora, and not by any political figure.

Abbas further disclosed that the alliance would leverage its nationwide structures to advocate youth welfare and deepen political engagement ahead of future elections.
He also commended Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration, noting that leaders who demonstrate commitment to development deserve support.

Speaking as Special Guest of Honour, Prof. Patrick Ukase challenged youths to take responsibility for leadership, stressing that political power must be actively pursued rather than awaited.

He lamented what he described as the tendency of young people to disengage after elections despite their numerical strength and capacity to demand accountability.

Ukase advised youths, women, and girls to organise, define their political direction, and resist manipulation by self-serving politicians, assuring them of his continued support.

Earlier, the NYA Director in Benue State, Cynthia Ogbe, described the inauguration as a defining moment for unity and purpose among youths, especially at a time Nigeria faces security and economic challenges.
On behalf of the coordinators, the Makurdi Local Government Coordinator, Barr. Dominic Shwa, expressed appreciation for the confidence reposed in them and pledged commitment to effective youth mobilisation.

The highlight of the event was the decoration of the NYA National President in Tiv traditional attire, symbolising cultural acceptance and unity.