By Henry Iyorkase, Makurdi

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has launched the Benue State Civil Protection Guard (BSCPG) to complement existing security outfits in the state.

The governor pledged to do everything possible to safeguard lives and properties across communities, insisting on creating an environment where everyone can live peacefully during his administration.

Governor Alia made this statement on Saturday at 1BB Square during the official inauguration of 5,000 officers of the new security outfit, code-named “Anyam Nyor.” The event also witnessed the donation of 100 Toyota Hilux vehicles and 600 special combatant motorcycles to security agencies in the state.

Speaking at the launch, Alia said, “I am aware of my duty to protect the lives and property of our people. My total commitment to ensuring the safety of every Benue resident is firm, as security remains my top priority. We cannot build a prosperous state upon insecurity. I am resolute in my determination to safeguard our people and to create an environment where they can flourish.”

He explained that establishing the BSCPG and donating security vehicles underscored his commitment to the security and well-being of the state. The initiative, he added, was also in fulfilment of his earlier promise to recruit 10,000 youths to support conventional security apparatuses in safeguarding the state and its people.

The governor described the BSCPG as a legally established outfit aimed at combating criminality and fostering an environment where residents can live, farm, and work without fear.

“The formal launch of the 5,000 gallant officers of the Benue State Civil Protection Guards, the donation of vehicles and special combatant motorcycles, as well as the unveiling of the Operation ‘Anyam Nyor’ Joint Security Task Force, represents a decisive step forward in ensuring the safety and security of our people. It is my firm belief that with these initiatives, we are not only reinforcing our commitment to safeguarding lives and property but also sending a clear message that the fight against insecurity in Benue State is won already,” he assured.

Governor Alia expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support to the state, his fellow governors, and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for their cooperation in the shared commitment to national security. He also commended the state security team led by Air Commodore Jacob Gbamwuan (retd.), and the Special Adviser on Security and Internal Affairs, Mr Joseph Har, for their leadership and dedication in making the initiative a reality.

He acknowledged the contributions of the Inspector General of Police, who recently donated two Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) to the Benue State Police Command, and thanked the Benue State Traditional Council, led by the Tor Tiv, His Royal Majesty, Orchivirigh Prof. James Ortese Iorzua Ayatse, and the Ochi Idoma, His Royal Majesty, Chief John Elaigwu Odogbo, for their unwavering support. The Catholic Bishop of Katsina-Ala Diocese, Most Rev. Isaac Dugu, was also recognised for his dedication to peace-building in the state.

The governor commended the 5,000 youths who answered the call to serve as officers of the BSCPG, urging them to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ethics in discharging their duties to protect Benue communities.

While encouraging residents to take advantage of the Amnesty Programme being pursued by the State Amnesty Committee, chaired by the Tor Tiv and the Catholic Bishop of Katsina-Ala Diocese, Alia reminded the people that the time for elections was over, and it was now time for good governance.

He also called on well-meaning Nigerians and indigenes to support his administration in achieving more for a better future for generations yet unborn.