Gov Alia Swears In 7 New Commissioners, Charges Them On Service Delivery
By Tony Enokela
Benue State governor, Reverend Father Hyacinth Alia, on Friday, swore in seven newly confirmed commissioners, charging them to see their appointments as a call to service and to prioritize the welfare of the people.
Addressing the appointees, Governor Alia said their emergence was not merely an elevation to public office but a call to service; describing their elevation as a solemn trust; and an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the development, stability and prosperity of the State.
He reminded them that the oath they took was to serve the people of Benue State and not themselves, friends or any particular interest group, stressing that Benue people expect competence, integrity, fairness, accountability and diligence.
The governor who said the people expect a government that listens to them, understands their challenges and works tirelessly to improve their lives, emphasized that despite the difference in their ministerial mandates, they should remain one to be stronger for more prosperous, peaceful and sustainable State.
He urged the commissioners to work as one team and avoid operating in silos, noting that the challenges facing the people are interconnected and require collaborative solutions.
“Where one ministry needs the support of another, provide it. Where responsibilities overlap, work together. Where a problem requires a collective solution, do not hesitate to bring your colleagues to the table,” he said.
The Governor also called for innovation in public service, urging the use of technology, data and modern management approaches to make government more responsive and efficient as the people deserve results.
He advised the new cabinet members to be accessible to the people, visit their communities, and engage stakeholders rather than rely solely on reports.
The governor equally acknowledged that they would face difficult decisions, limited resources and public criticism, but urged them to remain focused, seek wise counsel, and always put the public interest first.
He reminded the new appointees to note that Public office is temporary, but the legacies they would create through service could endure for generations, advising them to conduct themselves in a manner that will make their families, communities and the entire State proud.
The Governor assured them of his administration’s support and direction, but emphasized that it comes with the expectation that they give their very best to Benue people, urging them to be ministers of service but not merely holders of offices.
He advised them to be accessible without compromising authority, to be firm without being arrogant, show compassion without compromising standards as well as demonstrate ambitiousness for Benue and be humble in their service to the people, praying for God’s guidance as the administration works to build a better, more peaceful, prosperous and united State.
Those swore- in commissioners include: Solomon Iorpev; Mrs. Elizabeth Ogenyi; Kuma Aii -Yenge; Roy Ashirga ; Angwa Egbe ; Nick Eworo; and Amo Ankwa II.
Responding on behalf of the newly sworn-in commissioners,Nick Eworo expressed appreciation to Governor Hyacinth Alia for finding them worthy of the responsibility.
Eworo said the appointees were conscious of the task ahead and what the Governor represents.
“To whom much is given, much is expected. We are very grateful that the governor found us worthy among millions of Benue citizens to be given this responsibility,” he said.
He assured the Governor that the new commissioners would not disappoint him and would discharge their duties with commitment and humility.
Eworo on behalf of his colleagues promised never to take anything too hard with anybody as criticism is part of the job and assured that they will strive to move along with the governor believing that victory will be assured and the people of Benue will be happy.
