Gov. Hyacinth Alia has sworn in 17 commissioners and 23 special advisers and charged them to sustain the positive leadership qualities that qualified them for their positions.

Performing the ceremony on Tuesday in Makurdi, Mr Alia admitted that the commissioners and special advisers were assuming duties at a time when challenges and expectations were high.

He said the time of politics was over and urged people to support those in leadership positions to succeed.

The governor appealed to the Benue people to give them the cooperation they deserve to perform maximally and urged the appointees to contribute their quota to the growth and development of the state.

“You will be periodically monitored and assessed to determine your suitability to continue to serve the Benue people, for whom we are all labourers.

“The challenges that lie ahead are significant, and the road to progress may not always be smooth. But I implore each one of you to face these obstacles with courage, determination, and resilience.

“Let your resolve ignite a passion within you that will fuel your efforts to make lasting and meaningful impacts on the lives of the people of Benue,” he said.

The governor listed the commissioners and their portfolios to include: Tiza Imojime, works and housing; Omale Omale, power, energy, and transport; Joy Luga, cooperative, urban, and rural development; Yanmar Ortese, health and human services; Frederick Ikyaan, education and knowledge management; Ugwu Odoh, water resources, environment, and climate change; and Kwaghba Amande, ICT and digital economy.

Also named were Matthew Aboh, information, culture, and tourism; Aondowase Kunde, humanitarian affairs and disaster management; Prof Moses Ogbaji, agriculture; Martin Shaager, lands, survey, and solid minerals; Michael Ogelegba, finance, budget planning; Ann Itodo, women affairs, and social development; Fidelis Mnyim, justice and public order; Terkimbi Ikyange, youths, sports, and creativity; Alumo Orpin, commerce and industry; and Nick Eworo, science, technology, and innovation.

He said the portfolios for the special advisers would be announced during their retreat, while the first executive council meeting would be held on Sept. 6.

Responding on behalf of the appointees, Mr Ikyaan said they would not disappoint in their various areas of assignment and urged the people to support them to succeed.

(NAN)