Benue set to hold Golden Jubilee grand finale, thanksgiving service

The Benue State Government has announced plans to conclude the state’s Golden Jubilee celebrations this weekend with a grand finale and an interdenominational thanksgiving service in Makurdi.

In a statement issued on Friday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Tersoo Kula, the government said the week-long activities marking Benue State’s 50th anniversary began earlier this week under the leadership of Governor Hyacinth Alia.

According to the statement, the Golden Jubilee celebrations will climax on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at the IBB Square in Makurdi, where residents and visitors are expected to witness cultural performances, ceremonial parades and reflections on the state’s journey since its creation.

The government noted that the event would celebrate Benue’s rich cultural heritage and diversity while highlighting its contributions as one of Nigeria’s leading agricultural states and a key political player.

The celebrations will continue on Sunday, June 28, with a combined event marking Benue State’s Golden Jubilee, Governor Alia’s third anniversary in office and his 60th birthday.

The statement said an Interdenominational Thanksgiving Service will be held at the IBB Square from 9:00 a.m. to commemorate the milestones.

It added that Governor Alia’s administration has prioritised the Benue First agenda since taking office, with emphasis on infrastructure development, civil service reforms, economic revitalisation and human capital development.

The state government invited members of the public to participate in the events as Benue celebrates 50 years of its existence and reflects on its achievements while looking ahead to the future.