Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has pledged his administration’s full support for the establishment of newly approved Nigerian Army formations in the state, including the construction and furnishing of the headquarters of the new 5 Division.

The governor made the commitment while receiving members of the Army Headquarters Implementation Committee at the Government House in Makurdi.

Alia described the creation of the new military formations as a major boost to security in Benue, expressing confidence that the development would strengthen the state’s security architecture and enhance the protection of lives and property.

He assured the Nigerian Army that the state government would provide land for all approved military formations and units, as well as the necessary logistics to ensure the smooth take-off of the new division.

The governor expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the new Army formations and for siting the headquarters of the 5 Division in Benue. He also commended the Chief of Army Staff and the leadership of the Nigerian Army for the decision.

Governor Alia noted that Benue had long sought a stronger military presence due to its persistent security challenges, adding that the new division would significantly improve the security situation across the state.

He also paid tribute to fallen military personnel who lost their lives defending the nation and praised officers and soldiers currently serving in Benue for their commitment and sacrifices.

The Army Headquarters Implementation Committee, led by Major General Raymond T. Utsaha, is in Benue to oversee the implementation of the Federal Government’s approval for the establishment of the new military formations. The delegation included the pioneer General Officer Commanding of the 5 Division, Major General M. K. Gara.