Ministry of Marine & Blue Economy, Benue State

Ministry of Marine & Blue Economy, Benue State This administered page belongs to the Benue state Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy

HAPPY DEMOCRACY DAY
12/06/2026

HAPPY DEMOCRACY DAY

His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, is today (29th May, 2026), three years in the saddle as the Executive...
29/05/2026

His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, is today (29th May, 2026), three years in the saddle as the Executive Governor of Benue State.

The Honourable Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Hon. Denis Ter Iyaghigba, has sent his heartfelt congratulatory message to the Governor as contained herein.

Thank you

TEXT OF AN ADDRESS BY THE BENUE STATE COMMISSIONER FOR MARINE AND BLUE ECONOMY, HON. DENIS TER IYAGHIGBA AT THE INAUGURA...
20/05/2026

TEXT OF AN ADDRESS BY THE BENUE STATE COMMISSIONER FOR MARINE AND BLUE ECONOMY, HON. DENIS TER IYAGHIGBA AT THE INAUGURATION OF THE BENUE STATE INLAND WATERWAYS TASKFORCE.
PROTOCOLS:
1. Today, I stand before you with a deep sense of responsibility and optimism as we inaugurate the Benue State Inland Waterways Taskforce here at the Conference Hall of the Ideas Project Office, Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, Makurdi.

2. This occasion marks a very important milestone in our collective determination to restore order, improve safety, and unlock the enormous economic potential embedded within our inland waterways.

3. Benue State is blessed with vast river networks and rich aquatic resources. Our waterways remain critical channels for transportation, commerce, agriculture, fishing, tourism, and community livelihoods.

4. However, for too long, activities within this sector have operated with inadequate coordination and insufficient regulation, thereby exposing lives and property to avoidable risks.

5. Today, under the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, we are taking a bold and strategic step to change that narrative.

6. The establishment of this Taskforce is not merely ceremonial. It is a practical response to the growing need for structured operations, enforcement of safety standards, environmental protection, and enhanced economic productivity along our waterways.

7. The Taskforce is charged with the responsibility of ensuring a thorough compliance with relevant laws and operational guidelines while promoting safe and lawful marine activities both directly on the waterways and its accompanying corridor as well as our wetlands.

8. To the members of the Taskforce being inaugurated today, I congratulate you on this important responsibility. You are distinguished officers, men of proven integrity and distinguished ladies and gentlemen who have dedicated your time, energy, expertise and resources to serve this state in particular and our fatherland in general.

9. I wish to remind all of you that your appointment is yet another call to service. You must therefore not abdicate your responsibility. You must approach your duties with discipline, and patriotism as you have always been known for. I enjoin you to justify the confidence reposed in you. The success of this initiative depends greatly on your Midas touch, professionalism, and commitment to duty.

10. Let me emphasize clearly that, I will not tolerate extortion, harassment, abuse of office, or any form of misconduct. Any member found compromising the standards of this assignment will face immediate disciplinary measures.

11. I therefore present to you the members of the the taskforce who are:
1. Mr. Charles Terfa Ikyaave-The Director covering duties of the Permanent Secretary-Co-Chair
2. Dr. Harris Dera, the Technical Adviser to the Honourable Commissioner-Member
3. Mrs. Nguveren Yaaya, Director of Fisheries-Member
4.. The Benue state Commandant of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)-Member
5. Representative of the The Nigerian Navy-Member
6. Representative of the Bureau of Benue State Homeland Security-Member
7. Dr. Joseph Har, The Special Adviser on Security and Internal Affairs to the Governor-Member
8. Representative of the Benue state Command of the Marine Police-Member
9. Hon. Richard Imoter Nomkpo, Chief of Staff to the Honourable Commissioner-Member
10. Sir Teddy Terna Kandeor, Special Assistant to the Honourable Commissioner on Community Relations-Member
11. Mr. Emmanuel Gbyebe-Admin Officer of the Ministry-Secretary
12. Mr. Lubem Gena, Head of Media, Publicity and Orientation, Office of the Honourable Commissioner-Member
13. Hon. Paul Bebe, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Marine and Blue Economy-Member

12. Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, let me particularly thank you for accepting to take up this assignment. The Ministry remains fully committed to providing the necessary support for your effective operations. We shall continue to collaborate closely with security agencies and relevant stakeholders to ensure peace, safety, and effective monitoring across our waterways and indeed in all our mandate areas.

13. In the coming days, the Marine Safety Marshals will also be formally inaugurated to strengthen grassroots coordination and community engagement within riverine areas.

14. Together, we can build a marine and blue Economy sector that is safe, organized, productive, and beneficial to all our people.

15. Thank you and God bless Benue State.

Makurdi
Tuesday, 19th May, 2026

The Benue state Honourable Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Hon. Denis Ter Iyaghigba wishes the Executive Gover...
15/05/2026

The Benue state Honourable Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Hon. Denis Ter Iyaghigba wishes the Executive Governor of Benue state, His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, a splendid celebration as he marks his 60th birthday anniversary.

News ReleaseHon. Iyaghigba Mourns Benue Head of ServiceThe Benue state Honourable Commissioner for Marine and Blue Econo...
02/05/2026

News Release

Hon. Iyaghigba Mourns Benue Head of Service

The Benue state Honourable Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Hon. Denis Ter Iyaghigba, has conveyed his deepest condolences on the untimely demise of Dr. Moses Agbogbo Ode, the late Head of Service of the State.

Hon. Iyaghigba in a condolence message to the family, circle of friends, the entire Benue state civil service system and well wishers, reflected upon a significant encounter shortly following his appointment as Commissioner, during which Dr. Ode graciously proffered essential support that facilitated a seamless commencement of his duties.

"Dr. Ode's sagacious counsel and assistance were indispensable in enabling me to initiate my responsibilities with efficacy," Hon. Iyaghigba remarked.

The Honourable Commissioner portrayed Dr. Ode as an exemplary civil servant whose support to the Executive Governor, Rev. Fr..dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia has elevated the standards of public administration within the state.

"My sincere sympathies extend to his bereaved family, esteemed colleagues, and the wider Benue community in this hour of sorrow”, Hon. Iyaghigba added.

Hon. Iyaghigba called upon all to perpetuate Dr. Ode's legacy through resolute unity and steadfast commitment to public service.

Signed:

Lubem Gena, FIIM

Head of Media, Publicity and Orientation

Office of the Honourable Commissioner

Makurdi, Saturday, 2nd May, 2026

Happy Easter
03/04/2026

Happy Easter

Press Release Benue Marine & Blue Economy Ministry Takes Over Fisheries Department from Ministry of Agriculture and Food...
01/04/2026

Press Release

Benue Marine & Blue Economy Ministry Takes Over Fisheries Department from Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security

The Benue State Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy has formally taken over the Department of Fisheries from the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, in a move aimed at strengthening aquaculture development and re-aligining Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) for optimal service delivery.

The handover ceremony, which took place at the office of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, marked a significant administrative realignment designed to reposition the fisheries sub-sector under a more specialized institutional framework as championed by the administration Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia.

Speaking during the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Pharmacist Elijah Ogagbenu, described the exercise as the beginning of a sustained cordial working relationship between both ministries.

He expressed confidence that the transfer would enhance efficiency and deepen collaboration in the management of aquatic resources.

Pharm. Ogagbenu, who was accompanied by directors of the ministry, commended the Director of Fisheries, Mrs. Nguveren Yaaya, for her dedication to duty and urged her to sustain her professionalism and remain diligent in the discharge of her responsibilities as she transitions into the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.

Receiving the handover note on behalf of the Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Denis Ter Iyaghigba, the Director covering duties of Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mr. Charles Kyaave, expressed appreciation to the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Benjamin Shaver, for ensuring a seamless and cooperative transition process.

Mr. Kyaave noted that the Department of Fisheries is central to the ministry’s mandate of revitalizing the aquaculture and fisheries sector.

He emphasized that the integration of the department would significantly contribute to repositioning the sector as a viable revenue spinner for the state.

In her remarks, Mrs. Yaaya outlined the mandate and achievements of the fisheries department over the years, while acknowledging that its activities had been hampered by certain unfavorable policies that placed critical aspects of the sector in private hands.

She, however, expressed optimism about the future, pledging to work closely with the leadership of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy to rejuvenate the sector.

According to her, priority areas will include the development of hatcheries, rehabilitation of fish ponds, capacity building for stakeholders, and the provision of essential infrastructure.

The transfer is widely seen as a strategic step towards harnessing Benue State’s vast aquatic potential and improving livelihoods through sustainable fisheries development.

Signed:

Lubem Gena,FIIM

Head of Media, Publicity and Orientation

Office of the Honourable Commissioner

Tuesday, 31st March, 2026

08064453683

NEWS RELEASE Benue State Government Takes Over Lake Agbom, Other Fishing Ponds in BurukuThe Benue State Government has a...
24/03/2026

NEWS RELEASE

Benue State Government Takes Over Lake Agbom, Other Fishing Ponds in Buruku

The Benue State Government has announced the immediate takeover of Lake Agbom and other fishing ponds in Buruku Local Government Area as part of efforts to restore order, promote sustainable practices, and enhance livelihoods in the riverine communities.

The Honourable Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Hon. Denis Ter Iyaghigba, made the announcement on Monday during an on-the-spot assessment of disputed fishing ponds in Adi, Buruku LGA.

Lake Agbom is located in Adagbu community within the Adi-Etulo axis.

The visit followed a series of stakeholder engagements aimed at resolving lingering conflicts and addressing reported malpractices in the fishing sector.

Speaking during the exercise, Hon. Iyaghigba reiterated the commitment of Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia to restoring sanity in fishing communities across the state.

He noted that several water bodies, once sources of economic stability, had become flashpoints of disputes due to mismanagement and exploitation by unscrupulous elements.

At the palace of the Otse Etulothe the 16th, His Royal Highness Douglas Yobe Onah, the Commissioner formally conveyed the government’s decision to assume full administrative control of the fishing ponds, explaining that the move was necessary to facilitate integrated development that would serve both host communities and individuals who depend on the ponds for their livelihoods.

“The government is determined to ensure that these resources are properly managed for the collective good,” Iyaghigba stated, adding that the takeover would usher in reforms aimed at transparency, equity, and sustainability.

In his speech, the Royal Father lauded the decision of the government and promised his full backing.

Addressing members of the Adi fishing community at the riverbank, the Commissioner expressed appreciation for their role as custodians of the ponds and commended their resilience despite prevailing challenges.

He described his visit as both a sensitisation mission and an opportunity to witness firsthand the fishing activities in the area.

Hon. Iyaghigba, however, expressed dissatisfaction with the level of malpractice observed in the management of the ponds, warning that such practices would no longer be tolerated under government oversight.

He assured the community that the state would not abandon them, even as it assumes control of the resources.

He emphasised that the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy would soon roll out programmes, projects, and interventions designed to improve the socio-economic conditions of fishing communities. These initiatives, he said, would include capacity building, improved infrastructure, and the introduction of modern fishing techniques.

He further appealed to residents to cooperate with government officials, stressing the need for cordial working relationships to ensure the success of the new policy direction.

In his response, community leader, Abraham Yange Gasele, lauded the decision, noting that it has rekindled hope among residents. He expressed confidence in the administration of Governor Alia and pledged the community’s support for the initiative.

Similarly, the Divisional Fisheries Officer for Buruku LGA, Mr. Paul Apaki, welcomed the development, stating that local fishermen had long suffered at the hands of exploitative actors. He described the government’s intervention as timely and necessary to protect the interests of genuine stakeholders.

The takeover marks a significant step in the state government’s broader strategy to reposition the marine and blue economy sector as a viable driver of growth and rural development in Benue State.

Signed:

Lubem Gena, FIIM

Head of Media, Publicity and Orientation
08064453683

Tuesday, 24th March, 2026.

Hon. Iyaghigba Mourns Ex-Reps Member Terfa AtiiThe Benue State Honourable Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Hon....
22/03/2026

Hon. Iyaghigba Mourns Ex-Reps Member Terfa Atii

The Benue State Honourable Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Hon. Denis Ter Iyaghigba, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of a former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Terfa Atii.

He described Hon. Atii's death as a painful loss to Ushongo local government in particular, Benue State and Nigeria at large.

In a statement issued on Sunday by his Head of Media, Publicity and Orientation, Mr. Lubem Gena, Hon. Iyaghigba said the late Atii, who represented the Kwande/Ushongo Federal Constituency, was a committed public servant whose contributions to legislative development and grassroots representation would not be forgotten.

He noted that Hon. Atii distinguished himself through selfless service, dedication to the welfare of his constituents, and a thorough commitment to the progress and unity of Benue State.

“Hon. Terfa Atii was a man of integrity and a true patriot who gave his best in the service of our people. His death is a huge loss, not only to Kwande and Ushongo, but to the entire state,” Iyaghigba stated.

The Commissioner further extended his heartfelt condolences to the immediate family of the deceased, the people of Kwande and Ushongo Federal Constituency, and the government and people of Benue State over the irreparable loss.

He prayed that God grants the soul of the departed eternal rest and gives his family and loved ones the fortitude to bear the loss.

Keep Marching forward...
01/03/2026

Keep Marching forward...

Address

State Secretariat Complex
Makurdi

Opening Hours

Monday 08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday 08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday 08:00 - 17:00
Thursday 08:00 - 17:00
Friday 08:00 - 17:00

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Ministry of Marine & Blue Economy, Benue State posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Shortcuts

Share

Category