By Aondoaseer Zendesha 

President Bola Tinubu has described Benue State as having fulfilled the vision behind its creation, saying the state remains one of Nigeria's strongest pillars of development and the nation's fertile agricultural heartland.

Represented by Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila during the grand finale of the Benue @ 50 celebrations in Makurdi, the President also reaffirmed the Federal Government's commitment to partnering with the state on security, infrastructure, agriculture, education and healthcare.

President Bola Tinubu has said Benue State has justified the purpose for which it was created, describing the state as a major contributor to Nigeria's development through agriculture, culture and the resilience of its people.

Speaking through his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, at the grand finale of the Benue @ 50 celebration held on Saturday at the IBB Square in Makurdi, the President said the state's Golden Jubilee represents not only fifty years of existence but also a celebration of resilience, unity and progress.

According to the President, the creation of Benue State reflected Nigeria's commitment to justice, inclusion and balanced development, adding that history has vindicated that decision through the state's contributions to national growth.

Tinubu paid tribute to the late Joseph Sarwuan Tarka and other founding leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, farmers, teachers, entrepreneurs and public servants whose sacrifices helped shape modern Benue.

He also commended Governor Hyacinth Alia for initiatives aimed at strengthening governance, improving infrastructure, promoting peace and expanding opportunities for residents.

The President reaffirmed the Federal Government's commitment to working with Benue State to address insecurity, modernise agriculture, improve infrastructure, create jobs and expand access to quality healthcare and education.

He encouraged young people to embrace innovation and entrepreneurship, urging them to transform ideas into industries and opportunities into lasting prosperity.

Responding, Governor Hyacinth Alia reiterated his administration's commitment to building a productive economy that relies less on federal allocations.

The governor invited Benue indigenes in the diaspora to participate in rebuilding the state, saying his administration has introduced policies aimed at unlocking Benue's economic potential.

Alia acknowledged that insecurity and flooding have posed serious challenges but said the resilience of Benue people remains unbroken.

He also paid tribute to former leaders including the late Aper Aku, former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon (Rtd.) and the late Joseph Sarwuan Tarka for their contributions to the state's history.

The governor expressed confidence that current investments and reforms would lay the foundation for lasting peace, inclusive growth and economic prosperity.