Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has reiterated the state's commitment to harnessing its underutilized natural resources for economic growth, with a renewed focus on developing a sustainable blue economy.
Speaking through his deputy, Barr. Dr. Sam Ode, during a visit from participants of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Senior Executive Course 47, 2025, the governor emphasized that Benue is well-positioned to drive economic transformation through its abundant inland water resources.
Governor Alia highlighted key opportunities along the River Benue, River Katsina-Ala, and other inland water bodies, pointing to potential in sectors such as aquaculture, irrigation agriculture, river transport, biodiversity conservation, and water-based tourism.
"Our state is blessed with untapped resources that, if fully developed, can boost trade, generate employment, ensure food security, and enhance climate resilience. The blue economy is not just a coastal concept—it is a strategic solution for inland development as well," he said.
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In a strategic move, the state government has already established a Ministry of Blue Economy to drive policy, investment, and innovation in the sector, with leadership appointments expected soon. Governor Alia added that the government is currently engaging development partners and private investors to unlock new opportunities across Benue's riverine corridors.
Despite its prospects, the governor acknowledged several challenges, including poor infrastructure, erosion, flooding, inadequate investment, and climate change impacts. He stressed that addressing these issues is vital to unlocking the full potential of the state's inland waterways and surrounding ecosystems.
Governor Alia called on the NIPSS study group to collaborate closely with local stakeholders—ranging from fishers and farmers to business owners and policymakers—to explore practical models for inland blue economy development.
He also commended the institute for its role in national policy formulation and leadership training, describing the group's visit as timely and strategic in shaping development pathways for states like Benue.
SmallBusinessInsights.ng will continue to monitor Benue's efforts to create a blueprint for inland economic innovation that supports small businesses and sustainable development.
