By Chris Agabi
In a strategic step towards enhancing global partnerships and driving sustainable development in Benue State, the Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, led a high-powered delegation on a courtesy visit to the leadership of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) at the U.S. Embassy in Abuja.
The Governor and his twelve-member delegation were warmly received by Mr. Jason Taylor, the Deputy Mission Director (DMD) of USAID Nigeria, along with his advisory team, a statement by Caleb Senda, the Head Communication, Bureau for International Cooperation and Development,
Benue State Government said.
The statement indicated that the closed-door meeting focused on exploring areas of ongoing partnership and outlining potential opportunities for scaling up USAID’s support in Benue State.
Both parties engaged in detailed discussions on how to strengthen their collaboration to ensure sustainable development outcomes for the people of Benue.
Governor Alia expressed profound appreciation for USAID’s by unwavering commitment to the development of Benue State. “Your support has been nothing short of transformative,” the statement quoted the governor to have ssid.
He highlighted key areas where USAID’s interventions have had a significant impact. These include the remarkable screening and treatment of over 654,000 individuals for tuberculosis in Benue State last year, and the prevention of malaria in over one million children under the age of five, under the U.S. President’s Malaria Initiative. The Governor also acknowledged USAID’s pivotal role in agriculture, humanitarian assistance, and rural development, among other sectors.
Jason Taylor, Deputy Mission Director of USAID Nigeria, reiterated the agency’s dedication to continuing its support for Benue State. He stated, “USAID remains committed to working with Governor Alia and his administration to ensure that our joint efforts lead to the best possible outcomes for the people of Benue. We see immense potential in Benue and look forward to exploring new avenues for collaboration that will benefit the state and its citizens.”
Following the meeting, Leo-Angelo Viashima, Director General of the Bureau for International Cooperation and Development (BICD) in Benue State, emphasized the significance of the engagement as part of the government’s broader efforts to rebuild global partnerships. “This meeting is a crucial step in repositioning Benue State as a prime location for business and social interventions. We are committed to ensuring the judicious use of funds with robust accountability mechanisms in place,” Viashima noted. He further expressed confidence that the high-level consultative meeting will lead to strategic actions that will positively impact the lives of the Benue people.
The Benue State delegation also discussed specific areas where they seek continued and expanded support from USAID. These include the solarization of health facilities, enhancing maternal and child health services, establishing agricultural hubs, promoting clean mining practices, and supporting education and youth empowerment initiatives. The Governor underscored the state’s commitment to fostering an environment conducive to business and investment, including the establishment of the Benue State Investment Promotion Agency and the Bureau for International Cooperation and Development.
Governor Alia and his team left the meeting with renewed optimism, confident that the strengthened partnership with USAID will pave the way for sustainable development and improved livelihoods in Benue State. The visit marks a significant milestone in the state’s ongoing efforts to engage with international partners and leverage global expertise for local development.
