By Ken Kene, Makurdi.

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, says his administration’s priority is to secure the state and protect farmlands so that people can farm without fear, in order to feed the nation and boost the economy of both the state and the country.

The Governor made this known during an unscheduled visit to Taraku Mills in Gwer East Local Government Areaqqqq to inspect the level of maintenance work at the multi-billion naira, state-owned company.

Governor Alia vowed not to relent until terrorists are driven out of Benue, adding that his administration will sustain efforts to enforce relevant laws and continue to comb terrorists’ hideouts to ensure they face justice.

“That is why I am serious and not blinking at all over the issue of insecurity in my state. Terrorists MUST leave the state. We shall fight them until they leave our state for us. Nobody will take Benue land,” he declared.

Expressing satisfaction with the progress of work at the factory, the Governor noted that engineers had powered several machines whose maintenance was completed, as proof of significant progress toward restoring full operations.

He said the level of work done was encouraging and in line with projections for the commencement of production within a short time.

Governor Alia regretted that despite Benue farmers having the capacity to supply the raw materials needed by the mill, persistent insecurity in the state and neighboring states of Nasarawa, Cross River, Kogi, and Taraba could make the effort futile if farmers are unable to access their farms.

The Alia-led administration is currently working to resuscitate the Taraku Mills Company, which has remained comatose for several years.

The Governor called on farmers across the state, especially those cultivating soybeans, maize, and groundnuts, to increase production in readiness to supply the factory with adequate raw materials year-round once test-running is completed and full operations begin.

He explained that the revival of the mill would create a strong value chain around soybeans and maize, stimulate agricultural activities, generate employment, and further strengthen the state’s economy.

Governor Alia also noted that Benue’s economy had begun witnessing significant improvement through reforms introduced by the Federal Government and his administration over the past three years.

The Governor commended the team of engineers handling the maintenance for their dedication and professionalism.

He also appreciated the host community for safeguarding the factory against vandalism and theft over the years, describing them as disciplined, responsible, and committed to the success of the project.