By Dan Zendesha 

The Benue State Government has recruited and deployed 100 maritime workers as river marshals to strengthen safety, security, and operational oversight along the River Benue. The initiative, coordinated through the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, forms part of broader efforts to unlock the economic potential of the state's waterways.

The Benue State Government, through the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, has recruited 100 maritime workers to serve as river marshals along the River Benue.

According to the government, the deployment is aimed at improving safety, enhancing security, and supporting operational activities on the river, which remains one of the state's most important natural assets.
Officials say the initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to harness the economic opportunities associated with inland waterways and to promote the development of the marine and blue economy sector in Benue State.

The recruitment exercise is being coordinated under the supervision of the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Marine and Waterways, Hon. Paulugbubebe Bebe. Stakeholders have reportedly commended the initiative, describing it as a step toward improving the management and utilization of water transportation resources within the state.

The River Benue plays a significant role in transportation, fishing, commerce, and other economic activities across several communities. Government officials believe that strengthening monitoring and safety measures along the waterway could help improve confidence among river users and support economic growth linked to the state's waterways.

While details regarding the operational responsibilities, training standards, deployment locations, and budgetary implications of the programme have not yet been publicly disclosed, the initiative reflects increasing attention to the development of the marine and blue economy as an emerging sector within the state.