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Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has awarded a total of N151.2 million to thirty recently promoted security officers attached to the Government House in Makurdi.
The governor disclosed that 26 male officers received N5 million each, while four female officers got N5.3 million apiece.
He explained that the gesture reflects his administration’s dedication to fairness, inclusiveness, and recognition of excellence within the state’s security system.
Alia made the unexpected announcement shortly after decorating the officers at the Old Banquet Hall of Government House, Makurdi, stressing that his government places high value on the contributions of security personnel both within Benue and across Nigeria.
In a statement, the Principal Special Assistant to the Governor on Print Media, Donald Kumun, said, “This rare and first-of-its-kind gesture is in recognition of their dedication and exemplary service to the state.”
The governor added that rewarding officers at the point of promotion is a deliberate effort to inspire higher levels of discipline, professionalism, and commitment to protecting lives and property.
He charged the beneficiaries to live up to expectations by demonstrating outstanding conduct and performance in line with their new ranks.
Reaffirming his support, Alia assured security agencies in the state of continued collaboration and policies aimed at improving their welfare.
He also appealed to families of the officers to keep providing emotional and moral support, noting that such sacrifices are essential to the effectiveness of personnel on duty.
Providing details of the promotions, the media aide stated, “A breakdown of the promotions shows that 22 Police officers were elevated from the rank of Inspector to Assistant Superintendent of Police.
One officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps was promoted to Assistant Superintendent of Corps I (ASC I), while two others advanced to Corps Assistant I (CA I).
“Similarly, three officers of the State Fire Service were confirmed as Assistant Superintendent of Fire I (ASF I), one officer rose to Assistant Superintendent of Fire II (ASF II), and one officer of the Federal Road Safety Corps was promoted to Road Marshal Assistant I (RMA I).”
It was also recalled that Governor Alia had earlier rewarded 33 Government House security personnel with N5 million each.
“This brings the total sum disbursed to security personnel under his administration to N316.2 million—an unprecedented show of appreciation.
“This remarkable gesture not only boosts morale but also sets a new benchmark, as no administration in the state since the return of democracy in 1999 has demonstrated such consistent and substantial financial recognition for security operatives,” Kumun added.
Benue: Gov Alia gifts 30 newly promoted security officers N151.2m
