The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. Dr. George Akume, has called on Tiv sons and daughters in the diaspora to continue to promote unity among themselves and foster peaceful coexistence with their host communities.
Sen. Akume, who was represented by his Special Adviser on Special Duties, Mr. Alistair Oduah, gave the charge on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at the annual celebration of Mdzough U Tiv in the United Kingdom (MUTUK).
“I feel greatly honored to address you on this special occasion to mark this year’s annual celebration of our cherished cultural heritage,” Akume said. He noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has provided a level playing field for all Nigerians to contribute to national growth through responsible, accountable, and transparent leadership.
Highlighting federal government interventions in Benue State, the SGF listed ongoing projects such as the River Buruku Bridge, rehabilitation of the Yandev–Ugbema–Ogoja Road, dualization of the Makurdi–Otukpo–9th Mile Road, and the construction of a flyover at the former Wurukum Roundabout.
According to him, the establishment of the North Central Development Commission (NCDC) and the appointment of Tiv sons to lead the agency reflect President Tinubu’s favorable disposition to the Tiv people and Benue State. He added that improved security measures, including the creation of a peace and security committee and increased deployment of security personnel, are gradually restoring normalcy in previously troubled areas.
Akume further urged Tiv people abroad to take advantage of the government’s diaspora policy, facilitated through the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), to relocate home and participate in Nigeria’s new wave of economic growth and development.
The Mdzough U Tiv UK Day, celebrated annually, featured Tiv traditional music, dance, storytelling, fashion, fabrics, and cuisine. The event serves to preserve Tiv heritage, strengthen communal bonds, and promote cultural pride for future generations.
