Benue State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare’s Landmark Launch of Groundbreaking Digital Platforms and Women Empowerment Applauds Alia’s People-Centered Governance

Makurdi | March 30, 2026

Makurdi, the capital of Benue State, witnessed a significant milestone in governance and digital transformation as the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare officially launched its multifunctional website and robust digital reporting portal, alongside the Women’s Economic Empowerment through Agriculture and Mass Adult Literacy Campaign. The high-profile event, held at Fr. Alia Hall, Benue SEMA Headquarters, Makurdi, attracted top government functionaries, stakeholders, and development partners, who described the projects as a bold step toward inclusive governance and a groundbreaking digital revolution.

Speaking at the event, several government appointees and dignitaries commended the visionary leadership of Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, Executive Governor of the state, for prioritizing transparency, accountability, and grassroots development. They noted that the introduction of a digital reporting portal would significantly improve the documentation and response to sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) and child protection cases, thereby strengthening institutional efficiency.

The Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Hon. (Mrs.) Theresa Odachi Ikwue, was widely praised for championing the initiative. Speakers at the event described her as a proactive leader whose commitment to women’s empowerment and social welfare continues to align with the administration’s broader vision of a “Greater Benue.”

Earlier, during a presentation of the ministry’s web portal, the Data Management Officer, Comr. Paul Akunda, emphasized that the newly launched SGBV and VAC portal (https://mwaswportal.benuestate.gov.ng), linked to the website https://womenaffairs.benuestate.gov.ng, is a product of collaborative efforts. He noted that it was conceptualized by the MWASW team, developed and hosted by BDIC, and designed for use by the ministry’s engaged auxiliary social workers (ASWs) and the general public for real-time reporting and case management. He added that it would enhance access to government services and planning, bridge communication gaps, and promote transparency in the ministry’s operations.

In their goodwill messages, political appointees highlighted that the agricultural empowerment program embedded in the initiative would directly impact rural women, who form a large percentage of the state’s farming population. According to them, the program is not only timely but also strategic in addressing food security challenges, boosting productivity, and improving livelihoods across communities.

The event also took on a political tone as stakeholders reaffirmed their support for the Alia-led administration, describing it as one committed to people-oriented policies and sustainable development. They stressed that initiatives like this demonstrate a shift from traditional governance to a more modern, technology-driven system that places citizens—especially women and vulnerable groups—at the center of policy implementation.

Observers noted that the convergence of digital innovation and social intervention reflects a broader political agenda aimed at strengthening institutional frameworks while empowering citizens economically and socially. Many attendees expressed optimism that the initiative would serve as a model for other ministries and states across Nigeria.

As the event concluded, participants reiterated their confidence in the administration’s capacity to deliver lasting impact while calling for continued collaboration between government agencies, civil society, and the private sector to sustain the gains of the initiative.

Highlights of the occasion were the unveiling of the digital products and the showcasing of women’s empowerment products.