Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue state has vowed to drive terrorists out of the state, declaring that his administration won't stop fighting until armed groups leave. He made the commitment during an unscheduled visit to Taraku Mills in Gwer East local government area, where rehabilitation work is underway at the state-owned agro-processing facility.
The governor stressed that security underpins his economic agenda and that farmers must cultivate without fear for the state to unlock its agricultural potential. "My priority is to protect my people and safeguard our lands so that our farmers can continue feeding the nation while boosting the economy of Benue and Nigeria," he said.
Alia pledged to enforce laws vigorously and intensify operations against criminals wreaking havoc in communities. "Terrorists must leave the state.
We shall continue to fight them until they leave our land. Nobody will take Benue land," the governor declared.
He acknowledged that Benue farmers have the capacity to supply raw materials to Taraku Mills. However, insecurity across Benue and neighbouring states like Nasarawa, Cross River, Kogi and Taraba threatens agricultural output.
The governor warned that reviving the multi-billion naira facility would prove pointless if farmers couldn't access their farmlands. During the inspection, engineers demonstrated refurbished machines operating at the mill to showcase progress made so far.
Alia expressed satisfaction with the pace of work and said production would commence shortly. He urged farmers across the state, particularly those growing soybeans, maize and groundnuts, to ramp up production ahead of operations at the mill.
According to the governor, resuscitating Taraku Mills will strengthen the agricultural value chain, generate employment, spark economic activity and boost internally generated revenue. He noted that Benue's economy has started showing positive growth following reforms introduced by both the federal government and his administration over the past three years.
