Benue State Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia reiterates that his administration will continue efforts to secure the state and protect farmlands, saying terrorists and armed groups must leave Benue. Speaking during an unscheduled inspection visit to Taraku Mills in Gwer East Local Government Area, Alia links improved security to agricultural productivity and the revival of the multi-billion-naira agro-processing plant. He says farmers must be able to cultivate their land without fear for Benue to realise its agricultural potential and to maintain its role as a major food supplier.
Alia also notes that insecurity affecting Benue and neighbouring states—including Nasarawa, Cross River, Kogi and Taraba—has threatened agricultural output and the supply of raw materials to Taraku Mills. He states his government will enforce relevant laws and intensify operations against criminal elements. During the visit, engineers demonstrate progress by powering refurbished machines as part of ongoing rehabilitation, with the governor expressing satisfaction with the pace and indicating production may begin soon. He urges farmers, particularly those growing soybeans, maize and groundnuts, to increase production in anticipation of the mill’s operations.
