President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Hyacinth Alia on his 60th birthday, commending the Benue State governor for his leadership, peace-building efforts and developmental projects across the state.
In a statement issued on Friday, May 15, 2026, and shared on X by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described Alia’s political rise as “faith made manifest.”
The President noted that Alia’s years of service as a Catholic priest before becoming governor earned him the trust and support of the people of Benue State.
“Governor Alia’s political journey is simply that of faith made manifest. Ordained a Catholic priest in 1990 by Bishop Athanasius Atule Usuh of Makurdi Catholic Diocese, Alia’s principled character, compassion, and unwavering dedication to God and humanity have endeared him to the people of the state,” Tinubu stated.
He said it was not surprising that the people elected Alia as governor in 2023, noting that he followed in the footsteps of former Benue governor, the late Reverend Father Moses Orshio Adasu.
Tinubu praised the governor’s industrialisation drive, saying Benue State had witnessed the establishment of tomato and fruit juice factories, beer production plants, nylon and polythene factories, as well as a large-scale bakery under Alia’s administration.
According to the President, the projects are creating employment opportunities and adding value to agricultural products in the state.
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He also commended the construction of underpasses in Makurdi and Gboko, saying the projects had improved traffic flow and urban living conditions.
The President further applauded Alia for establishing a university of agriculture, science and technology, alongside investments in facilities at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital.
Tinubu also acknowledged the governor’s efforts toward peace and political stability in Benue State.
“I also commend the Reverend Father for ensuring peace and stability in Benue, and particularly for his peace-building initiatives and endeavours to foster unity among the people of the state and his political family,” he said.
The President encouraged Alia to sustain his security and welfare initiatives while continuing infrastructure development across the state.
“Reverend Alia has demonstrated that when the pulpit comes to power, positive change is possible,” Tinubu added.
He wished the governor continued good health and strength as he continues serving Benue State and Nigeria.