A Public Affairs and good governance commentator as well as Benue State Project Coordinator of the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), Stephen Numbeve, has urged Benue residents to assess political leaders based on performance and verifiable achievements as preparations begin for the 2027 governorship election.
In a statement, Numbeve said governance should be evaluated by its developmental impact rather than political rivalry, arguing that continuity is essential to sustain the reforms initiated by Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration.
He called on the people of the state to support Governor Alia for a second term, maintaining that retaining the current administration would ensure the consolidation of ongoing development programmes across key sectors.
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According to him, the Alia administration has recorded significant achievements in infrastructure, agriculture, education, healthcare, industrial revival and public sector reforms since assuming office in May 2023.
Numbeve claimed that the government has constructed over 500 kilometres of roads; restored the Benue State Secretariat; improved rural connectivity through the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP); revitalised the Benue Investment and Property Company (BIPC); revived Benue Links Transportation Company; recruited 9,700 primary school teachers and expanded access to tertiary education.
He also commended what he described as improvements in healthcare delivery, youth inclusion and industrial revitalisation, saying the administration’s reforms have strengthened governance and accelerated development across the state.
The commentator further credited the government with the regular payment of salaries, pensions and gratuities, describing the development as a major step towards restoring confidence in the public service.
On security, Numbeve acknowledged that insecurity remains a major challenge but said the state government has continued to collaborate with security agencies, promote community-based security initiatives and advocate broader security reforms to tackle the problem.
He also praised the administration’s engagement with traditional rulers, labour unions, youth and women’s groups, professional bodies and development partners, noting that the inclusive approach has enhanced participatory governance.
Numbeve cautioned that replacing the current administration in 2027 could disrupt ongoing reforms and development projects.
He therefore urged Benue voters to consider the long-term benefits of existing programmes and make their electoral decisions based on evidence, competence and the collective interest of the state rather than political sentiments.
He maintained that Governor Alia deserves another term to consolidate industrialisation, agricultural transformation, institutional strengthening and economic development initiatives already underway.
