Alia Reaffirms Commitment to Benue Youth Empowerment, Urges Private Sector Support
Pan Afric Reporters
Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment, entrepreneurship and skills development, urging private businesses operating in the state and beyond to create more employment opportunities for young people.
The assurance was contained in a statement issued by the SAJSOBA Support for Alia and signed by its Director, Media and Communications, Mr. Stephen Shom, following the grand opening and commissioning of Deshield Empire Car Stand, Restaurant and Car Wash in Abuja on Friday, September 25, 2026.
Represented at the event by his Deputy Governor, Governor Alia commended the Chief Executive Officer of Deshield Empire, Mr. Dooter Igbudu, for what he described as his commitment, determination and entrepreneurial drive.
The governor urged the company, as it expands its operations, to prioritise the employment of qualified Benue youths across its branches, while encouraging young people in the state to embrace hard work, entrepreneurship and self-employment.
Alia also encouraged youths to invest in personal development and explore opportunities in the private sector, reiterating that his administration remained focused on supporting enterprising young people to develop their skills, pursue their aspirations and contribute to Benue’s development.
He further commended Igbudu, a member of the Saint James Junior Seminary Old Boys Association (SAJSOBA), urging members of the association to remain committed to their careers and businesses while supporting one another and promoting peace, unity and progress.
Speaking earlier, Igbudu expressed appreciation to Governor Alia for his support and encouragement, saying the governor’s representation at the event by his deputy governor, coupled with the large turnout of Benue youths, provided encouragement for his entrepreneurial efforts.
Igbudu also called on Benue youths to embrace peaceful political engagement and reject thuggery and other forms of violence. He urged young people to assess political initiatives and policies based on their perceived contribution to the development of the state.
On Governor Alia’s political future, Igbudu expressed support for the governor’s re-election, stating that, in his view, Benue was experiencing transformation and increased economic activity across various sectors.
The event, according to the SAJSOBA Support for Alia, also featured presentations on strategies for communicating the governor’s programmes and achievements, goodwill messages, a tour of the Deshield Empire facilities and a social gathering.
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