Makurdi, Benue State – June 18, 2025
The Benue State Government has officially declared Wednesday a work-free day to honour the visit of Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to the state capital, Makurdi.
The announcement, which was made public on Tuesday evening through the Office of the Secretary to the State Government, stated that the gesture is aimed at giving residents the opportunity to accord the President a befitting welcome during his scheduled official engagements in the state.
President Tinubu is expected in Benue as part of a nationwide tour of infrastructure projects and stakeholder engagements, marking his administration’s renewed efforts to foster inclusive development and strengthen ties with sub-national governments.
According to sources within the state executive council, the President’s itinerary includes a courtesy visit to the Tor Tiv’s Palace, inspection of ongoing federal and state infrastructural projects, and high-level meetings with key political leaders, traditional rulers, and youth representatives.
Governor Hyacinth Alia has urged citizens to come out en masse to show support and hospitality in line with the state’s reputation for peace and cultural pride. He further stated that the work-free day would also ease traffic flow and security management during the presidential convoy’s movement across strategic locations in Makurdi.
Security agencies have already been mobilized to ensure a peaceful and orderly environment throughout the visit. Markets and major roads in the state capital are expected to operate under special advisory guidelines to maintain public safety.
The President’s visit comes amid heightened focus on North-Central states as the federal government pursues new strategies for infrastructure development, national unity, and economic revitalization under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Residents are advised to comply with government directives and cooperate with law enforcement agencies to ensure a successful and incident-free visit.