By Henry Ibya, Makurdi
Benue State Governor, Reverend Father Hyacinth Alia has expressed confidence in the ability and potentials of cohort of UN volunteers in Africa selected from the state to represent Benue on the world stage with distinction.
Governor Alia who was speaking at a ceremony to mark the inauguration of the first- ever cohort of UN volunteers in Africa who happens to come from Benue State, held Thursday, at the banquet hall of government house Makurdi, described the UNVs programme as a landmark initiative and the first of its kind in Africa, stressing that the programme would further highlight Benue’s commitment to global partnerships, youth empowerment and sustainable development which is also part of the United Nations Volunteers’ Full Funding Partnership, FFP.
The governor represented by Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Deborah Aber, commended the UN team for the vigorous and transparent selection process, expressing strong confidence in the cohort’s potential to represent Benue State on the world stage with distinction.
Governor Alia equally described the accomplishment as a groundbreaking milestone that exemplifies Benue’s commitment to developing international talents and fostering leadership that resonates globally.
In his remark, Director General, Bureau of International Cooperation and Development, BICD, Aondoaseer Viashima, described the UNV programme as a transformative achievement for the state, underscoring its diversity and inclusivity, pointing out that its success will pave the way for the state engagement in other global initiatives.
On his part, Director General of Planning, Jerome Andohol, acknowledged that the UNV programme will drive long- term human capital growth to empower generations in the state, while Partnerships Development Specialist from the UN Volunteers External Relations and Communications Section, Raashid Riza, commended the selected volunteers for the critical roles they will undertake in advancing beneficial policies for the state.
He also explained that the UNs Special Voluntary Fund would support inclusive programming, crisis response and data system strengthening, emphasizing that the state involvement with the fund will enhance its global presence and amplify the state’s role in UN Volunteer initiatives.
