Governor Samuel Ortom today addressed the 2019 Mutual Union of Tiv in America, MUTA Convention taking place in Maryland, where he reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the security of lives and property.
The Governor solicited the support of Benue people in the diaspora, giving assurance that the current development strides of the present administration would be sustained.
“The security of lives and property of Benue people as well as the overall development of the State remain our priority. I therefore solicit the support of you sons and daughters of Benue in the diaspora to help us sustain the efforts we are making in security, education, health, agriculture and infrastructure”, he stated.
Governor Ortom emphasized the need for greater unity among Tiv people at home and abroad for development.
He thanked officials and members of MUTA for the solidarity they gave him when the state came under attacks by Fulani herdsmen and similarly commended the union for its contributions through health and educational programmes back in the state.
The Governor also commended President Muhammadu Buhari for appointing Senator George Akume as Minister, saying that he was looking forward to having a robust working relationship with the Minister in the interest of the state.
Speaking earlier, Nigeria’s Ambassador to the United States, Honourable Sylvanus Nsofor described the unity of Benue indigenes in America as significant to the growth of the state. He particularly lauded the efforts MUTA had been making to positively impact on lives back home.
The Tor Tiv, His Royal Majesty, Professor James Ayatse called for the resuscitation of teaching and writing of Tiv language in schools in Benue State with emphasis on entrepreneurial studies.
The Tiv Paramount Ruler also spoke about the need for greater unity among his people and urged them to support the Ayatutu Foundation as a way of speedily addressing development challenges facing Tiv people.
Others who addressed the 2019 MUTA Convention included Senator George Akume who was represented by Professor Eugene Aliegba, the Speaker, Benue State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Titus Uba, President Mdzough u Tiv represented by Professor Iyorwuese Hagher, Rt. Hon Herman Hembe who presented a paper and MUTA President, Mr Simon Kusugh.
