Benue at 50: "The Best Is Still Ahead" — Political Hopeful Calls for New Leadership as State Marks Golden Jubilee

By Margaret Abah

As Benue State marks its 50th anniversary today, a political aspirant has issued a rallying cry for renewed hope and purposeful leadership, acknowledging both the triumphs and trials that have defined Nigeria's Food Basket state over five decades.

Martin Iorsamber, in a commemorative message released on Monday, painted a portrait of a state forged in resilience—celebrating its agricultural wealth, cultural diversity, and "unbreakable spirit" while confronting uncomfortable truths about unemployment, infrastructure decay, and insecurity.

"We've faced challenges, yes—but we've also shown courage, innovation, and an enduring belief in a better tomorrow," Iorsamber stated, capturing the duality of Benue's journey since its creation from the old Benue Plateau in 1976.

The message comes at a politically charged moment, with parties across Nigeria positioning candidates ahead of the 2027 elections. Iorsamber did not shy away from this timing, urging Benue citizens to seek "emerging leadership that will drive the state with purpose and great vision."

Speaking directly to constituents in Benue North East Senatorial District, Iorsamber acknowledged years of "neglect" due to what he termed "poor representation," while pledging a future focused on rural development, land security, youth empowerment aligned with global trends, and international connectivity.

"Let's put our trust in God and not lose hope, for those with God will never be disappointed," he declared, wrapping political ambition in spiritual assurance.

His golden jubilee message highlighted contrasting eras in Benue's history—from periods of emerging workforce and infrastructure promise to darker chapters marked by frustrated workers, hungry communities, and deaths "courtesy of state and non-state actors." Yet Iorsamber insisted these trials "never deterred our spirit of a united people under one umbrella: Benue."

As the state's 7.6 million residents celebrate half a century of existence, Iorsamber's call for reflection and recommitment echoes a broader question facing Benue: Can the next 50 years deliver on the promise that launched the state five decades ago?

"The journey continues—and the best is still ahead," he concluded, leaving voters to decide whether that optimism translates into ballots come 2027.