Benue State Allocates N450 Million for World Bank Women’s Project, Approves Pilgrimage Sponsorship
The Benue State Executive Council has approved N450 million (approximately $550,000) as counterpart funding for the Nigeria Women Project, a World Bank-supported initiative aimed at economically empowering women and strengthening small- and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) across the state.
The decision, made during a meeting chaired by Governor Hyacinth Alia in Makurdi, will enable Benue to unlock additional financial resources from the World Bank. Technical Adviser to the Governor on Media, Publicity and Strategic Communication, Chief Solomon Iorpev, explained that the project was sourced by the state government to reduce poverty among women and enhance their economic participation through entrepreneurship development.
“The project is designed to empower women through small and medium-scale enterprises, helping to alleviate poverty and improve their economic participation,” Iorpev stated, framing the move as part of the administration’s commitment to livelihood improvement and economic growth stimulation.
In a separate decision, the council approved the sponsorship of 81 Muslim pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca. Iorpev indicated that the state government would also extend similar support to Christian pilgrims during the Jerusalem season later in the year, describing the sponsorship as the revival of a previously neglected practice.
Additionally, the council gave effect to an executive order renaming the Benue Printing and Publishing Corporation as the Dan Agbese Printing and Publishing Corporation. The honorific change recognizes the contributions of the late, renowned journalist Dan Agbese to Nigeria’s media landscape. The council commended Agbese’s legacy and urged young people to emulate his dedication and commitment to excellence.
The approvals reflect a multifaceted state agenda combining economic development, social welfare, and cultural recognition. The World Bank project’s implementation will be closely watched as a key vehicle for advancing women’s empowerment and SME growth in the region.
