In the not too distant past of the Benue River — silent, brooding, and beautiful — there echoes the pulse of a people so blessed as the best freshwater capital of Nigeria’s inland waterways. The banks of this great river, once a cradle of culture and commerce, have in recent times drawn deep sighs from bruises of anguish and suspicion, not for want of beauty, but for the insecurity that shadows its course like a lingering ghost.

Indeed, there is a poetic truth in the assertion that in every group there lies a deviant strain — an inevitable deviation from the moral arc of the collective. These deviants, if left unchecked, metastasize into saboteurs — carving from the sacred body of community their own selfish fiefdoms of chaos. In a society worth its salt, such saboteurs, who compromise the communal fabric, have often faced swift and resolute justice.

Yet, while it is valid to raise concern about the creeping threat that lurks upon the riverbanks, in arms trafficking, unregulated settlements, informants of the underworld, and the growing opacity around the identities and activities of riverine dwellers; it is equally important to balance this apprehension with sober appreciation of the sweeping, strategic actions already being undertaken by the Benue State Government under the visionary and dynamic leadership of His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia.

Lest, it is forgotten in a hurry that, for decades, the question of security along the Benue River and its tributaries had remained a rhetorical echo; raised in local gossip, muted in policy circles, and abandoned on the drawing tables of administrations past. But with the emergence of the Alia-led government, this ghost is currently underway of being confronted head-on.

For the first time in the history of Benue State, in a decisive demonstration of leadership courage by Governor Alia, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, visited Makurdi in a landmark strategic tour made possible through the audacious diplomatic engagements of the Governor. The purpose was not ceremonial; it was surgical. This was followed swiftly by the groundbreaking establishment of a Naval Base and a Navy Marine Command outpost in Benue State. These installations are not mere symbolic gestures; they represent an unprecedented pivot to secure our inland waterways, monitor riverine movements, and flush out criminal enterprises operating under the veil of darkness along the banks.

Furthermore, under the Alia administration, the reinvigoration of the Benue State Community Protection Guards, and the mobilization of coordinated vigilante efforts have extended to critical flashpoints like Agatu, North Bank, Abinsi, Gbajimba, Buruku, New Garage and Katsina-Ala. Modern surveillance and digital mapping technologies are also being implemented for the profiling of riverbank households and boat operators, ensuring that no shadow remains without scrutiny.

In the Governor’s holistic vision of “Alianomics,” security is not a standalone pillar, but interwoven with development, social renewal, and administrative accountability. In partnership with federal agencies, there is a growing synergy to harmonize traditional, religious, and local leadership into a united front, not just for intelligence gathering but also for moral rearmament of our society.

Yes, the call to action is noble, but let it not descend into despair or unwarranted indictment of our collective progress. Where shadows loom, light must be acknowledged, and where efforts are in motion, encouragement is due. What we must do, as informed patriots, is amplify these gains, support the structures, report with accuracy, and refuse to glorify fear where hope is germinating.

Makurdi’s river island, once the pride of our youth’s recreation and cultural life, is not lost; it is being reclaimed. The reclamation, however, must happen not only in policy and enforcement but in the conscious re-awakening of our civic dignity and communal will. Let the people become the first line of defense, standing shoulder to shoulder with government efforts, not as accusers, but as co-builders.

We stand at a historic cusp: where the Benue River may no longer be whispered about as a corridor of insecurity, but proudly reclaimed as a lifeline of security, commerce, recreation, and culture — a new testament of possibility under a leadership that listens, acts, and leads with divine courage.

Let history record it today that the Alia administration has not only heard the cries from the riverbanks; His Excellency has responded, decisively, and history shall testify that Benue rose again because her leadership dared where past leadership floundered, and the good people of Benue State dared to believe.

Prof. Qrisstuberg Amua is a Pastor and a firm believer in the visionary and focused leadership of His Excellency Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia’s AliaNomICs blueprint, agenda and governance of Benue State.

On June 12, 2025, Nigeria marked 26 years of uninterrupted democratic governance with a historic address by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at a joint session of the National Assembly in Abuja.

The event, held in the revered chambers of the House of Representatives, was a poignant commemoration of Democracy Day—a date etched in Nigeria’s history due to the annulled 1993 presidential election won by Chief MKO Abiola.

With the nation’s capital under tight security, the address drew an illustrious audience, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, and other dignitaries, reflecting its national significance.

President Tinubu’s speech was a blend of historical reflection, tributes to the heroes of democracy, and a forward-looking vision for Nigeria’s economic and social progress.

Here Are 10 Key Takeaways from the President’s Address:

Celebrating Nigeria’s Democratic Resilience

Tinubu opened his address by reflecting on Nigeria’s remarkable journey from military rule to democracy since 1999.

He described the National Assembly as “a parliament that embodies the will of the Nigerian people” and expressed a blend of pride and resolve upon entering the chamber.

“Today, as I entered this grand edifice built from the sweat and toil of our democratic yearning, my heart stirred. It was a blend of accomplishment and resolve,” he said.

He emphasized the enduring commitment of Nigerians to democratic ideals:

“Since 1999, democracy has risen from the ashes and destitution of military rule to take its rightful place as the only mode of governance for our resilient and beloved people.”

Honoring June 12 and Its Heroes

A central theme of the speech was a tribute to Chief MKO Abiola—whose 1993 election victory was annulled—and to other democracy activists who paid the ultimate price.

Tinubu announced posthumous national honors, including the Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) for Kudirat Abiola, and awards for others like Shehu Musa Yar’Adua (GCFR) and Ken Saro-Wiwa (CON).

“Whilst Chief MKO Abiola is June 12’s central figure, we must not forget the long list of those who equally deserve to be called heroes of Nigerian democracy,” he stated.

He also honored Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, Pa Alfred Rewane, Gani Fawehinmi, and Anthony Enahoro:

“I mention these names not to exclude or degrade the profound contributions of anyone else, but to illustrate, through these few heroes, the universality of our pursuit of democracy.”

Gratitude to Buhari for Rectifying History

Tinubu praised former President Muhammadu Buhari for officially recognizing June 12 as Democracy Day and posthumously acknowledging Abiola and his running mate, Babagana Kingibe, as the rightful winners of the 1993 election.

“Let me pay tribute to former President Muhammadu Buhari for reaching back into history to rectify a national misdeed by making June 12 Democracy Day.”

He added that Buhari’s gesture was a critical step in healing a national wound.

Democracy as a Cultural Fabric

Tinubu emphasized that democracy is not just about elections but a way of life that must be sustained through dialogue, debate, and tolerance.

“Year by year, election after election, every time we debate instead of battle, discuss instead of fight, and argue instead of destroy, we preserve the institutions of democracy.”

He urged citizens to weave democratic values into the nation’s cultural fabric.

Dismissing One-Party State Fears

Addressing concerns that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is steering Nigeria toward a one-party system, Tinubu categorically dismissed such claims.

“To those who ring the alarm that the APC is intent on a one-party state, I offer you a most personal promise. While your alarm may be as a result of your panic, it rings in error.”

Reflecting on his time as Lagos State governor in 2003:

“I was the last of the progressive governors standing in my region. My allies had been induced into defeat. My adversaries held all the cards that mortal man could carry.”

He reaffirmed that a one-party state is not on the horizon and welcomed new APC members as proof of the party’s inclusiveness.

Economic Reforms Showing Progress

The president highlighted economic strides under his administration, citing a 3.4% GDP growth in 2024, with the fourth quarter hitting 4.6%—the highest in over a decade.

“We are already seeing results. GDP grew by 3.4 percent in 2024, with Q4 hitting 4.6 percent, the highest quarter of growth in over a decade.”

He noted that inflation is gradually easing, food prices are stabilizing, foreign reserves have increased fivefold, and the naira exchange rate has stabilized.

Expanding Opportunities Through Consumer Credit

Tinubu spotlighted the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP), which has empowered over 100,000 Nigerians, including 35,000 civil servants, to access affordable credit.

“In less than one year, over one hundred thousand Nigerians… have benefited from affordable consumer credit through CREDICORP.”

He announced a new initiative launching in July to empower 400,000 young Nigerians, including youth corps members, with consumer credit access.

Driving Digital and Infrastructure Growth

He unveiled an ambitious initiative to lay fiber optic cables across the country as part of the “Nigeria First” digital policy.

“We have embarked on an ambitious project to lay fibre optic cables across the nation… to enhance connectivity and bridge the digital divide.”

He also emphasized investments in roads, ports, rail, and electricity infrastructure to create a conducive environment for manufacturing and industry.

Strengthening National Security

Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving national security, citing improved intelligence coordination and safer highways.

“National security is the foundation of peace and progress. We have intensified security operations to reclaim communities from criminals and terrorists.”

He praised the armed forces and pledged continued investments in training and technology to bolster national safety.

Reaffirming June 12’s Enduring Ideals

In his closing remarks, Tinubu called on Nigerians to recommit to the ideals symbolized by June 12: freedom, transparency, accountability, and justice.

“Let us rededicate ourselves to the ideals of June 12—freedom, transparent and accountable government, social justice, active citizen participation, and a just society where no one is oppressed.”

He acknowledged Nigeria’s imperfections but celebrated its resilience:

“Our nation is not perfect, but it is strong. Our democracy is not invincible, but it is alive.”

He concluded with a prayer:

“Happy Democracy Day, and may God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria and protect our troops.”

President Tinubu’s address was a masterclass in balancing reflection with vision. Delivered with a deep sense of history and optimism, the speech reaffirmed his commitment to unity, reform, and democratic consolidation.

His call for collaboration was clear:

“It is fitting that I come to this chamber. You are the authors of the people’s law, and I must be their faithful implementer… While we may not always agree, we must forge a way to work together because this is what democracy demands of us.”

His tolerance for dissent stood out as he noted:

“Call me names, call me whatever you will, and I will still call upon democracy to defend your right to do so.”

As Nigeria marks 26 years of democracy, the president’s speech serves as a rallying cry for collective action, honoring the past, embracing the present, and building a prosperous future where democracy thrives and prosperity is shared.

The event—marked by heightened security and the conferral of national honors—will be remembered as a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey.