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Gov. Alia Bids Farewell to 72 Christian Pilgrims from Benue
By: Fabian Apechihin
Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, on Wednesday bid farewell to 72 Christian pilgrims set to embark on a spiritual journey to the Holy Land.
The send-off, held at the Old Banquet Hall of Government House, Makurdi, featured prayers, words of encouragement, and assurances of government support.
In his address, Governor Alia reminded the pilgrims that pilgrimage is not a leisure trip but a profound spiritual exercise with lasting impact.
“It brings spiritual fulfillment and renewal. Once you go out there, you don’t come back the same — you return as one of the apostles, tasked with a greater mission for your nation and state,” he said.
He urged them to pray for Benue, Nigeria, and leaders at all levels, stressing the nation’s urgent need for divine intervention. He also charged them to be good ambassadors of the state and to avoid any form of abscondment abroad.
Governor Alia further expressed hope that the experience, particularly Israel’s agrarian and security-driven systems, would broaden their perspectives and inspire contributions to Benue’s development.
“We need growth in all facets, including the spiritual. I pray you return with renewed faith, enthusiasm, and a positive spirit to inspire others,” he added.
Chairman of the Christian Pilgrims’ Welfare Board, Rev. Michael Melladu, confirmed that the 72 participants had been screened, cleared by the Israeli Embassy, and granted visas. He announced that the pilgrimage will take place from September 15 to 25, 2025.
Melladu also commended Governor Alia for fully sponsoring the exercise, covering flights, accommodation, feeding, and allowances for all pilgrims.
Do you want me to make the headline more spiritual (e.g., focusing on faith and renewal) or more political (emphasizing the governor’s sponsorship and support)?
Investigations by Nigerian Concord Newspaper reveal that the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Mr. Pius Akutah, has allegedly misappropriated public funds for a lavish lifestyle.
According to our findings, within months of assuming office, Akutah allegedly purchased a bulletproof SUV valued at approximately N850 million. In addition, he is reported to have acquired over twenty exotic SUVs for use as a convoy.
Akutah is also said to have acquired multiple high-value properties, including three in Abuja’s Maitama and Asokoro districts worth over N2 billion, and two in Lagos’ Banana Island valued at N1.8 billion. These acquisitions appear far beyond the scope of his official salary and allowances.
Further investigation suggests that Akutah may be using public funds to support political ambitions, including allegedly grooming militants across 23 local government areas in Benue State for a potential 2027 gubernatorial bid.
Staff of the Shippers Council reportedly claim that Akutah frequently accesses the council’s treasury without proper authorization. Some insiders have indicated that a petition will soon be filed with the EFCC, ICPC, and the Presidency to report his alleged misconduct.
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Investigations by Nigerian Concord Newspaper reveal that the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Mr. Pius Akutah, has allegedly misappropriated public funds for a lavish lifestyle.
According to our findings, within months of assuming office, Akutah allegedly purchased a bulletproof SUV valued at approximately N850 million. In addition, he is reported to have acquired over twenty exotic SUVs for use as a convoy.
Akutah is also said to have acquired multiple high-value properties, including three in Abuja’s Maitama and Asokoro districts worth over N2 billion, and two in Lagos’ Banana Island valued at N1.8 billion. These acquisitions appear far beyond the scope of his official salary and allowances.
Further investigation suggests that Akutah may be using public funds to support political ambitions, including allegedly grooming militants across 23 local government areas in Benue State for a potential 2027 gubernatorial bid.
Staff of the Shippers Council reportedly claim that Akutah frequently accesses the council’s treasury without proper authorization. Some insiders have indicated that a petition will soon be filed with the EFCC, ICPC, and the Presidency to report his alleged misconduct.
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I am writing to felicitate with Your Excellency, Atku Abubakar, GCON, former Vice-President of Nigeria (Zege Mule u Tiv & Wazirin Adamawa)
on the occasion of your 79th birthday anniversary.
I join your teeming admirers globally in celebrating you on this special day, an adorable Statesman and my Boss.
I recall with nostalgia, how countless generations have benefited from your generosity, wealth of experience and benevolence including being my key benefactor even as a young lawyer for my professional success.
Your Excellency, may your special day be filled with grandeur befitting your illustrious career.
I wish you continued success, prosperity, and an unending stream of accolades.
It takes a remarkable kind of fortitude to remain active in public life well into one’s golden years. Your dedication and patriotism remain truly exceptional.
May you enjoy a day of reflection on your many years of fruitful service to humanity. It is my prayer that God Almighty grants you many more healthy, fruitful, and fulfilling years ahead, and continues to endow you with wisdom, strength, and the grace to keep contributing to our nation-building.
Happy Birthday, Your Excellency.
Michael Kaase Aondoakaa SAN.
Former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice
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