Benue @50: Culture, Heroes Take Centre Stage As Alia Opens Jubilee Village | ClipTV Online

Benue State has kicked off its Golden Jubilee celebration with a focus on culture, heritage, and the people who built the state, as Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia launched the Jubilee Village at the J.S. Tarka Foundation on Monday.

Represented by his deputy, Sam Ode, mni, Governor Alia said Benue @50 is not just about marking 50 years, but about telling the full story of the state through the voices of its heroes — from governance and business to academia, faith, and grassroots community work.

“The story of Benue cannot be told from a single perspective,” Ode told the gathering. “It is a story of sacrifice, perseverance, and excellence. We are deliberately honouring distinguished sons and daughters who have shaped this state, to inspire a new generation.”

The Deputy Governor paid special tribute to Benue indigenes in the diaspora for projecting the state’s identity globally, and praised women and youths for their central role in community development. He urged citizens to use the Jubilee as a rallying point for peace, unity, and prosperity.

On his part, Shadrach Ukuma, Director General of the Benue State Bureau for Arts, Culture and Tourism, called on Benue people at home and abroad to participate fully in the week-long events. He said the Jubilee Village will host exhibitions and master classes designed to reconnect residents and visitors with the state’s rich cultural heritage.

The launch was marked by vibrant cultural displays, with performances from local dance troupes and a standout appearance by the Cameroonian Troupe.

Ode commended Governor Alia for his leadership and sacrifices toward repositioning Benue among Nigeria’s leading states.