During the burial ceremony of Elder Haa Orpin in Gboko, Benue State, Prof Joseph Utsev, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, announced that the Federal Government has formed a committee dedicated to the dredging of the Niger and Benue rivers.

The team has already commenced a survey of the rivers and will soon present its findings to the Federal Government for necessary action.

According to Prof Utsev, the dredging of River Benue will bring numerous benefits to the state, including the mitigation of recurring floods and a boost to the state’s marine economy. Additionally, he assured that more interventions, federal appointments, and employment opportunities would be extended to Benue indigenes.

The minister expressed his disapproval of the practice among some youths of using social media to vilify Benue leaders, stating that it tarnishes the state’s reputation. He appealed to the youth to approach their leaders directly and share their views, as their doors are always open for constructive suggestions and corrections.

Prof Utsev reiterated his earlier call for the people of Benue to support President Bola Tinubu, Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, himself, and Governor Hyacinth Alia to ensure the delivery of the desired dividends of democracy to the state.

He described the late Chief Haa Orpin as a father who stood for peace, truth, and development, and offered prayers for the eternal rest of his soul.