MAKURDI: In anticipation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s upcoming visit to Benue State, the state government has commenced an extensive mobilisation of support groups to deliver what it describes as a rousing and colourful welcome.
According to an official circular dated June 17, 2025, the directive was issued by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Special Groups Mobilisation, Hon. Francis U. Ngutswen, under the direct instruction of Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia.
The Governor, who also serves as the state leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), urged all recognised and accredited support groups to begin preparations for a vibrant procession that would reflect the warmth and hospitality of the Benue people.
The letter outlines that support groups are expected to stage a coordinated, shoulder-to-shoulder procession starting from the Makurdi Airport and moving through the city to the Wurukum Roundabout, before culminating at the Benue State Government House.
Once at the Government House, President Tinubu is scheduled to engage with stakeholders and residents during a town hall meeting, which is expected to highlight key issues affecting the state and the administration’s development agenda.
The mobilisation effort will be tightly regulated, with each group required to adhere to specific guidelines regarding participation. This includes strict accreditation procedures, limits on the number of participants per group, and assigned colours or attire to ensure a coordinated and visually impressive turnout.
Memo of the Benue state government mobilizing her citizens to give President Tinubu a royal and fanfare welcome
Support group leaders have been advised to liaise directly with the Office of the SSA on Special Groups Mobilisation to finalize logistics and receive further instructions.
In the statement, Hon. Ngutswen expressed appreciation to the various support groups for their loyalty and ongoing dedication to the administration’s initiatives. Kindly accept the Governor’s gratitude for your commitment and be assured of my highest regards and esteem, the letter reads.
The mobilisation is seen as both a show of political solidarity and grassroots strength for the ruling APC in Benue, especially amid heightened national attention on security and governance issues in the state.
President Tinubu’s visit comes at a time when Benue is grappling with serious security concerns, including recurring attacks by armed groups. It is expected that these issues will be central to his discussions with local leaders during the visit.
