Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has officially assigned portfolios to the 17 commissioners inaugurated earlier this week. The announcement was made on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, during the State Executive Council meeting in Makurdi.
Addressing the newly inaugurated commissioners, Governor Alia urged them to serve with dedication, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the collective progress of Benue State. He emphasized the need for synergy and loyalty within his administration, urging both new and retained commissioners to justify the confidence reposed in them.
“This is a call to action,” the governor said. “Your commitment to the people of Benue State must be unwavering as we work together to deliver impactful governance and development.”
The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Tersoo Kula, who briefed journalists after the meeting, outlined the portfolio assignments.
Among the appointments, Hon. Alumo Orpin was named Commissioner for Industry, Trade, and Investment, while Hon. Ugwu Odoh will oversee Water Resources, Environment, and Climate Change. Hon. Kunde Aondowase continues as Commissioner for Humanitarian and Disaster Management, with Hon. Kwaghgba Amande taking charge of ICT and Digital Economy.
Dr. Ortese Yanmar, previously Commissioner for Health and Human Services, was reassigned as Commissioner for Cooperative and Rural Development. Dr. Frederick Ikyaan, formerly the Commissioner for Education and Knowledge Management, now heads the Ministry of Lands. Mr. Michael Oglegba retains his position as Commissioner for Finance, while Hon. Tiza Isaac Imojime moves from the Ministry of Works to Youth, Sports, and Creativity.
Other appointments include Dr. Benjamin Ashaver as Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Adamu Margaret Ijaguwa as Commissioner for Education and Knowledge Management, and Hon. Dennis Iyaighgba as Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy. Dr. Paul Ejeh Ogwuche resumes as Commissioner for Health and Human Services.
Additionally, Hon. Joseph Ter Jir was named Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Hon. James Dwem for Science and Technology, and Dr. Ornguga Yangien as Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice. Hon. Theresa Odachi Ikwue takes on the Ministry of Women Affairs, while Dr. Peter Oboh Egbodo oversees the Ministry of Information and Orientation.
As the news of the portfolio assignments spread, rumors emerged on social media alleging that Governor Hyacinth Alia had announced himself as Commissioner for Works. Addressing these claims on Thursday, the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Sir Tersoo Kula categorically debunked the allegations, describing them as baseless and urging the public to disregard them.
“His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia has not announced himself as Commissioner for Works. Those peddling unfounded rumors should note and desist,” Kula stated. “Those who made posts or are sharing this on social media handles should ensure they delete such falsehood immediately.”
The Chief Press Secretary emphasized the importance of accurate information dissemination, especially in matters of governance, and called on the public to focus on supporting the administration’s efforts to drive progress across the state.
Governor Alia reiterated the importance of collaboration between the commissioners and his administration, stressing that their success depends on their ability to work collectively. He also called on the media and the general public to support the newly appointed commissioners in their roles.
“The success of these assignments requires cooperation from all stakeholders, including the press and the people of Benue State,” the governor said. He further highlighted his administration’s commitment to grassroots engagement and urged the commissioners to serve as advocates for government initiatives in their respective communities.
