From Samson Kukwa-Yanor, Makurdi

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected in Benue during the weekend as the state rounds off a week-long golden jubilee celebration with a grand finale on Saturday to mark her 50 years of existence.

Governor Hyacinth Alia, who is leading the commemorative activities, said the event will mark five decades of the state’s cultural heritage, resilience, and development since its creation.

The celebrations, which commenced earlier this week under the theme “Benue Golden Jubilee”, have featured a series of activities across the state. According to a statement by the chief press secretary to the governor Tersoo Kula on Friday, the celebrations will culminate this weekend with “colourful cultural displays showcasing Benue’s rich diversity, ceremonial parades, and reflections on the state’s journey”.

The grand finale is scheduled to hold at the IBB Square in the state capital. Organisers said the thanksgiving service will bring together government officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and citizens to reflect on the state’s 50-year milestone.

The celebrations will continue on Sunday when the state combines the jubilee with Governor Alia’s third year anniversary in office and his 60th birthday. According to the statement, since taking office, the governor has pursued a “Benue First” agenda focused on infrastructure, civil service reforms, economic revitalisation, and human capital development.

An Interdenominational Thanksgiving Service will hold at IBB Square, Makurdi on Sunday.

Meanwhile, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is billed to commission the Concentrate Plant of Bensono Fruit Processing Company Limited on Saturday as part of activities marking the third year anniversary of the Benue state governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia.

Announcing the expected arrival of the President in a press statement, Dr Raymond Asemakaha, Group Managing Director, Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC) described the company as a “landmark agro-processing investment aimed at boosting value addition, job creation, and industrial development in Benue State.”

Benue, fondly known as the “Food Basket of the Nation”, was created in February 1976. The state government described the jubilee as an opportunity to celebrate achievements and chart a new course for the future.