Shitile Rebirth Forum lauds Gov Alia’s leadership, passes vote of confidence in him, Wombo, Fanafa, others

By Benedicta Aboh

The Shitile Rebirth Forum (SRF), Katsina-Ala, has commended the developmental strides of Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, and other officials serving under his administration.

Addressing journalists at a world press conference held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) House, Makurdi, the Leader of the SRF, Barr Manasseh Agboh,
flanked by other leaders and members from that axis of the state, described the event as historic, stressing that it is aimed at highlighting governance, security, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and sustainable development initiatives of the administration in Shitile land, Katsina-Ala Local Government Area, LGA, and Benue State at large.

The Forum formally expressed its appreciation to Governor Alia for his visionary leadership, particularly his recent approval for the renovation of primary school blocks in Abaji and Tor-Donga and the upgrade of Shitile Community Secondary School, Tor-Donga, into a full-fledged Science and Technical College.

“These decisive interventions reflect a leadership that understands the critical role of education, science, technology, and technical skills in shaping the future of young people and driving long-term economic development,” the SRF stated.

The group noted that these projects would not only enhance access to quality education but also create employment opportunities, encourage self-reliance, and provide avenues for Shitile sons and daughters to work in relevant government ministries, agencies, and institutions.

SRF appealed to the governor to recruit more Shitile indigenes into his administration and to confirm Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) and casual staff in government schools as permanent Teaching Service Board employees, emphasizing that such actions would motivate staff and improve service delivery.

The Forum also lauded Governor Alia’s inclusive governance approach, highlighting the appointment of competent Shitile sons into key positions.

In particular, the SRF singled out the General Manager of Benue Links Nigeria Limited, Comrade Alexander Aondohemba Fanafa, for his people-centered leadership and efficiency.

In the transport sector, the Forum commended the revival of the Benue Links terminal in Katsina-Ala and the reduction of transport fares, which it said significantly improved movement between Makurdi and Katsina-Ala. It further requested an extension of a Benue Links terminal to Tor-Donga to enhance mobility, trade, and integration.

The organization also recognized the contributions of Hon. Prince Solomon Wombo, member representing Katsina-Ala/Ukum/Logo Federal Constituency, describing him as deserving of his recent traditional title, Imenger-I-Tiv. SRF praised his effective advocacy, strategic support, and prompt interventions during insecurity incidents in the area.

Similarly, the Forum commended Dr. Shaku Justine Orangoholga, the Executive Chairman of Katsina-Ala LGA, for his dedication to grassroots development, security, and infrastructure, citing ongoing projects like the Tor-Donga–Tacha Road and the Eat-What-You-Grow programme.

While appreciating these achievements, SRF appealed for the construction of critical roads, including the Tor-Donga–Zaki-Biam Road, Gbise–Degarr Road, and Abaji–Chir-Akera Road, to stimulate economic activity, improve security, and reduce criminal hideouts.

On healthcare, the Forum called for the completion of the Abaji–Mbamtsar Road to improve access to the Federal Medical Centre Annex in Mbamtsar, boost emergency healthcare services, and open the area for commercial agricultural development. It also requested the posting of additional health workers to primary healthcare centers across Shitile land.

The group condemned acts of criminality in the area and distanced the Shitile Nation from violence, urging traditional rulers, youths, and stakeholders to embrace peace, dialogue, and lawful engagement.

“Sustainable development can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace, mutual respect, and collective responsibility,” the Forum emphasized.

The group announced a formal vote of confidence on Governor Alia, Hon. Prince Solomon Wombo, Hon. Dr. Shaku Justine Orangoholga, Comrade Alexander Aondohemba Fanafa, and other Shitile indigenes serving under the administration, stating that the Shitile Nation is now firmly “on the path of rebirth and transformation.”

Chairman of the NUJ Benue State Council, Comrade Bemdoo Ugber, thanked SRF for using the NUJ House for the briefing and assured the Forum of maximum publicity. He emphasized the media’s role in providing a neutral platform for democratic expression and fostering dialogue for peace and development.