Isherev community jubilates as Dr. Terna Francis delivers Gov. Alia's Xmas largesse, receives roral blessings

By Benedicta Aboh

The Isherev community in Guma Local Government Area, LGA, of Benue State was Tuesday awash with excitement as Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia celebrated the 2025 Yuletide with the people, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to unity, development and inclusive governance.

The celebration, which covered Mbawa, Nyiev and Mbayev/Yandev Council Wards, was hosted on behalf of the Governor by the Executive Secretary of the Benue State Education Quality Assurance and Examinations Board (BEQAEB), Dr. Terna Francis.

The event attracted a large turnout of politicians, community leaders and prominent sons and daughters of Isherev.
Among dignitaries present were the Commissioner for Science and Technology, Hon. James Dwem; Commissioner for Rural Development and Cooperatives, Dr. Ortese Yanmar; former Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Barr. Dave Iorhemba; Executive Secretary of the Benue State Science and Technical Education Board, Engr. Samuel Kwende; Prof. Tyokyaa Cletus, and other notable stakeholders.

The celebration was marked by electrifying performances from popular artistes including Zulezoo, Rapizo and the Benue State Arts Theatre Troupe, creating an atmosphere of joy, unity and cultural pride.

On behalf of the Governor, Dr. Francis presented Christmas gifts such as bags of rice, cows and other seasonal items to the community, triggering spontaneous jubilation among youths, women and elders who danced in appreciation.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Francis conveyed Governor Alia’s gratitude to the people of Isherev and Guma Local Government for their support during the 2023 general elections.

“His Excellency deeply appreciates the people of Isherev and Guma for their overwhelming support and trust. This celebration is a way of sharing love and strengthening the bond between government and the people,” he said.

He stressed that the event was non-partisan and aimed at promoting peace and communal harmony, while assuring residents of the administration’s resolve to tackle infrastructural deficits and insecurity across the state.

“This government remains committed to improving the lives of Benue people through better security, infrastructure and inclusive development,” Dr. Francis added.

The Chairman of Guma Local Government Council, Orwough Maurice, commended Dr. Francis for facilitating the Governor’s outreach to the area and assured residents of adequate security during the festive period.

“We assure our people that security measures have been strengthened to ensure a peaceful and joyous Yuletide,” Maurice said.

Also speaking, Commissioner for Rural Development and Cooperatives, Dr. Ortese Yanmar, disclosed that the Alia administration had constructed two hospitals in the area and urged the community to continue supporting the government to attract more development projects.

Former Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Barr. Dave Iorhemba, described the event as historic.

“This is unprecedented. Such a grand Christmas celebration has not been witnessed here in recent times, and it reflects the renewed attention Isherev is receiving,” he noted.

Representing APC stakeholders, Citizen Asema Richard, and non-partisan stakeholders, Prof. Cletus Tyokyaa, expressed appreciation to Governor Alia for the Christmas largesse and pledged continued support for Isherev sons serving in government.

The highlight of the event was the special prayers and royal blessings offered by traditional rulers led by the Mue Ter Ihyarev, Chief Augustine Shonyi, who prayed for divine wisdom, protection and continued grace for Dr. Terna Francis and the Alia administration in advancing development across Benue State.