Stakeholders in Benue State have warned that without urgent investment in job creation and infrastructure, insecurity in the state will persist, undermining growth and stability.
The call was made in Abuja during the official unveiling of the Benue State 2027 Roadmap, a civic-driven initiative aimed at charting a new direction for security, youth empowerment, industrial expansion, and political leadership.
The event, organised by Markolima Consultancy Academy (MACA) in partnership with the Nigerian Good Governance Initiative (NGGI), was chaired by Chief Terlumun Akputu, Executive Director of FHA Mortgage Bank of Nigeria.
In his remarks, Dr Timothy Aikyor, Chairman of the Roadmap’s Central Planning Committee, described the initiative as “innovative and timely,” noting that it was designed to entrench democratic values, foster dialogue, and strengthen citizen participation.
He explained that the Roadmap will unfold in three phases: the unveiling; a focused dialogue on the controversial gubernatorial zoning debate (November 2025–March 2026); and a governorship debate in 2026 after political parties select their flagbearers.
Technology expert and governance advocate, Dr Simon Ater, drew loud applause with his blunt warning that Benue’s worsening insecurity is rooted in neglect of young people and insider sabotage.
“No society can be plagued by this level of insecurity without internal sabotage,” Ater said. “We need to know who is inviting criminals into our communities. At the same time, we must create sustainable jobs and improve infrastructure. Farmers cannot transport produce due to bad roads, industries are absent, and when nothing works, insecurity thrives.”
Also speaking, Prof. Zachary Gundu delivered a data-backed lecture linking the state’s security challenges to weak leadership and internal political divisions. His presentation ignited a lively exchange among panelists, including Dr Jeffrey Kuraun, Surveyor Godwin Tyoachimin, Prof. Dennis Ityavyar, and Dr Tersoo Loko.
The unveiling received endorsements from prominent figures such as former Attorney-General Michael Kaase Aondoakaa (SAN), Hon. Terseer Ugbor, and Engr. Nick Wende, all pledging support for the civic initiative.
While several voices stood out, it was Ater’s impassioned call for youth-centred leadership, industrialisation, and security reforms that resonated most, positioning him as a leading figure in the state’s quest for transformation.
At the close of the forum, participants agreed that the Benue 2027 Roadmap had created a rare platform for open debate and set out clear priorities for building a united, economically vibrant, and safer Benue ahead of the 2027 elections.
