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The Benue State Government has directed the immediate suspension of all unregistered and unlicensed activities along the Benue River, its inland waterways, tributaries, and river corridors.
The Commissioner of Marine and Blue Economy, Hon. Denis Ter Iyaghigba, issued the warning in a statement on Wednesday.
The suspended activities include boat and canoe operations, ferry services, sand and gravel dredging and excavation, fishing and aquaculture, brick-laying and construction along riverbanks, loading and offloading at unauthorised jetties, and any commercial or mining activity in the river corridor.
He stated that all existing and intending operators must report to the Ministry at the State Secretariat Complex, Makurdi, for registration, verification, and the issuance of permits and licences.
Iyaghigba said registration commenced on Monday, 15 December, and will close on Friday, January 30, 2026.
He added that enforcement will begin immediately after this period.
Iyaghigba said the exercise is intended to ensure environmental safety, strengthen eco-friendly marine transport, curb illegal activities, and promote sustainable revenue generation for Benue State.
Benue govt launches crackdown on illegal activities along River Benue
