MAKURDI, BENUE STATE – On Tuesday, December 26th, 2023, a grand homecoming and 70th birthday colloquium/symposium was held in honor of Senator Dr. George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF). The event, presided over by His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, the Executive Governor of Benue State, took place at the Main Auditorium of the College of Health Sciences at Benue State University.
The purpose of the event was not only to commemorate Senator Akume’s milestone birthday but also to celebrate his contributions as a political colossus and creator in the political landscape of Benue State. The colloquium/symposium aimed to foster discourse on good governance and national cohesion.
Governor Alia expressed his pride in welcoming Senator Akume, whom he regarded as a democratic patriarch and the pillar of their great Party. He acknowledged Senator Akume’s role in laying the foundation for leadership in Benue State during the inception of the Fourth Republic in Nigeria.
The governor announced that the colloquium/symposium would become an annual event in honor of Senator Akume, recognizing his significant contribution to the state’s political landscape. He also extended gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Senator Akume as SGF and for considering Benue State in various leadership positions.
In his speech, Governor Alia lauded Senator Akume’s openness to differing opinions and ideas, stating that it showcased the true virtue of a democratic leader. He commended the Senator for nurturing a generation of leaders and allowing them the freedom to develop and express their ideas.
Governor Alia highlighted Senator Akume’s commitment to social compassion and welfare advocacy. He emphasized the Senator’s dedication to the well-being and dignity of every individual, which has shaped his legacy as a leader. The governor also mentioned the instrumental role Senator Akume played in securing federal projects and interventions for the state, such as the establishment of the ‘Renewed Hope Shelter Program’ aimed at relocating IDPs back to their ancestral homes.
The governor further outlined his own administration’s achievements in the state, including initiatives to boost agricultural activities, construction of strategic roads, resuscitation of moribund industries, and reforms in the health sector. He also mentioned efforts in providing transportation palliatives, distributing relief materials, and sponsoring youths for ICT training.
Governor Alia concluded his speech by dispelling rumors of discord between himself and Senator Akume, stating they were baseless and created by individuals seeking to profit from chaos. He assured the public that his administration would address any existing discontent within the party while prioritizing the will of the people who elected them into office.
The event ended with Governor Alia welcoming Senator Akume home on behalf of all Benue people and congratulating him on his 70th birthday. He wished him a pleasant stay and success in his ongoing work with the top echelons.
The celebration concluded with chants of “Long live Sen. Dr. George Akume!”, “Long live Benue State!”, and “Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!” as attendees expressed their support and admiration for both Senator Akume and the progress of Benue State.
