James
Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has pledged full scholarships and economic myempowerment packages for the families of security personnel who lost their lives during an operation in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area on September 19, 2025.
The governor made the announcement while hosting the bereaved families at Government House, Makurdi, as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.
Governor Alia explained that his administration chose to mark the day with remembrance rather than celebration, in honour of the officers who paid the supreme price in service to the state.
“These men are our heroes,” he said. “Their sacrifice will never be in vain. We will forever remember their courage, and as a government, we will stand by their families in this difficult time.”
The governor announced that scholarships would be awarded to all children of the deceased officers and directed the Director-General of Homeland Security, Air Commodore Jacob Gbwamwuan (retd.), to begin compiling the list of beneficiaries immediately.
He further directed the Commissioner for Trade and Industry to provide support for the widows by engaging them in small-scale businesses to help sustain their families.
While appreciating the families for their resilience, Governor Alia urged citizens to honour the legacy of the fallen heroes by fostering peace, unity, and development in Benue. He also commended the Federal Government for its ongoing efforts in restoring peace and security across the state.
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