Governor Hyacinth Alia swore in Serumun Aber on Thursday as the first female Secretary to the State Government (SSG).

Performing the ceremony in Makurdi, Mr Alia said he had confidence in her ability to succeed on the given mandate.

He said her responsibilities include ensuring the effective coordination of activities, fostering collaboration across ministries, and driving policies and initiatives that would lead to the sustainable development of Benue.

Mr Alia expressed confidence that with the new SSG, his administration would continue to build a Benue that would be prosperous, inclusive and focused on delivering tangible benefits to the citizens.

He said his administration recognised women’s important roles in society, adding that her appointment as the first female SSG reflected his government’s determination to elevate merit and diversity in leadership.

“As the first woman ever to be appointed as SSG in Benue State, Barrister Aber’s appointment is a testament to the confidence I and this administration have in the abilities of the women of Benue.

“We recognise the important roles women play in our society, and this appointment reflects our determination to elevate merit and diversity in leadership,” the governor said.

He called on public servants, stakeholders, and the entire people of Benue to give the new SSG and his administration the support they needed to succeed.

In her response, Ms Aber appreciated God and Mr Alia for the opportunity given to her to serve the state as the first female SSG.

Ms Aber promised to pilot the affairs of her office with diligence and dedication in line with the administration’s blueprint, setting the foundation for a better and more prosperous Benue.

(NAN)