The Pathfinder Arewa Project has lauded Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue for his recent donation of ₦5 million to each family of security personnel killed in the fight against banditry in the state.
In a statement on Sunday in Kaduna, Abdulhamid Jakadan, chairman of the group, described the gesture as “a testament to the governor’s recognition of the sacrifices made by security personnel in defence of peace.
The disbursement, which took place on September 5, 2025, benefited families of personnel drawn from the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Nigerian military, the Benue State Civil Protection Guards, and the Operation Zenda joint security task force.
“We at Pathfinder Arewa Project wish to use this medium to commend the leadership of the Benue state governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, for his recent act of compassion and solidarity,” the statement reads.
“Governor Alia has demonstrated empathy and responsive leadership, particularly towards families affected by violence and displacement.”
The statement added that Alia has maintained steady support for internally displaced persons (IDPs) through regular distribution of relief materials.
According to the group, the governor’ has made “significant efforts in improving the security, situation in Benue state and urged the people to continue to support him to succeed.
The group noted the four-day security summit held in April 2025 in collaboration with the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), where stakeholders, security experts, and traditional leaders met to develop long-term solutions to the security challenges.
The statement also lauded Alia for launching a state-wide security outfit in 2024, involving the deployment of 10,000 youths equipped with motorcycles and Hilux vehicles to complement conventional security forces.
The group further praised the governor in the areas of infrastructure, health, education, agriculture and youth empowerment.
The group also commended the governor’s inclusive appointments and promotion of religious harmony, citing the inclusion of non-indigenes in his cabinet and sponsorship of Muslim and Christian pilgrimages.
“At the heart of Governor Alia’s administration is a deliberate commitment to inclusive governance.
“With visionary leadership and collective effort, Benue state is on a clear path to becoming a beacon of peace, progress, and prosperity in Nigeria,” the group said.
