Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has unveiled a ₦380 million support package for families of 76 fallen security operatives.
Each family received ₦5 million, with scholarships and empowerment also promised.
Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has announced financial assistance and long-term support packages for the families of 76 security operatives who lost their lives in the fight against insecurity between 2024 and 2025.
Each bereaved household was presented with a symbolic cheque of ₦5 million, bringing the total intervention to ₦380 million. In addition, the governor pledged scholarships for the children of the deceased officers and business empowerment opportunities for widows.
Speaking at the presentation in Makurdi, Alia said the initiative was a gesture of appreciation for the ultimate sacrifice made by the fallen operatives. He recounted the grief of families, including the story of a young mother whose child would grow up without knowing its father.
“These brave men gave everything to protect us,” Alia said. “Their families will not be forgotten. We will continue to stand by you through scholarships, empowerment, and regular government support.”
The governor added that assistance would go beyond financial relief, promising sustainable livelihood opportunities for the widows and periodic visits to affected families. He also applauded the Inspector General of Police, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Naval Staff, and the Civil Defence Command for their roles in restoring calm, while commending President Bola Tinubu for backing the state’s security initiatives.
Alia urged citizens to view security personnel as defenders rather than adversaries, noting that many give up their comfort and lives to safeguard communities.
Director General of Homeland Security, Col. Jacob Gbawuan (rtd), revealed that the 76 fallen officers served in the police, military, Civil Defence, and the state’s Community Volunteer Guards. He described them as true heroes whose sacrifices must remain honoured.
The State Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, praised the governor’s intervention as an unprecedented act of compassion that would ease the pain of bereaved families while motivating officers still in service.
