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From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
As part of measures towards enhancing global partnerships and driving sustainable development in Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has engaged the global Organization on strategic collaboration.
Alia who led a high-powered delegation on a courtesy visit to the leadership of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) at the U.S. Embassy in Abuja, expressed profound appreciation to USAID for their unwavering commitment to the development of Benue State saying “Your support has been nothing short of transformative.”
He noted that USAID interventions have had a significant impact several areas of the state including the remarkable screening and treatment of over 654,000 individuals for tuberculosis in Benue State last year, and the prevention of malaria in over one million children under the age of five, under the U.S. President’s Malaria Initiative.
The Governor also acknowledged USAID’s pivotal role in agriculture, humanitarian assistance, and rural development, among other sectors.
The Governor and his delegation who were received by the Deputy Mission Director (DMD) of USAID Nigeria, Mr. Jason Taylor, had a closed-door meeting discussing possibilities of exploring areas of ongoing partnership and outlining potential opportunities for scaling up USAID’s support in Benue State.
Both parties noted the need to strengthen their collaboration to ensure sustainable development outcomes for the people of Benue.
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The Deputy Mission Director of USAID Nigeria, Jason Taylor, reiterated the agency’s dedication to continuing its support for Benue State.
He stated that USAID remains committed to working with Governor Alia and his administration to ensure that our joint efforts lead to the best possible outcomes for the people of Benue.
“We see immense potential in Benue and look forward to exploring new avenues for collaboration that will benefit the state and its citizens.”
Following the meeting, Director General of the Bureau for International Cooperation and Development (BICD) in Benue State, Leo-Angelo Viashima, emphasized the significance of the engagement as part of the government’s broader efforts to rebuild global partnerships.
“This meeting is a crucial step in repositioning Benue State as a prime location for business and social interventions. We are committed to ensuring the judicious use of funds with robust accountability mechanisms in place.”
He further expressed confidence that the high-level consultative meeting will lead to strategic actions that will positively impact the lives of the Benue people.
The Benue State delegation also discussed specific areas where they seek continued and expanded support from USAID to include the solarization of health facilities, enhancing maternal and child health services, establishing agricultural hubs, promoting clean mining practices, and supporting education and youth empowerment initiatives.
