Gov Hyacinth Alia on Thursday sworn in Serumun Aber as the first female Secretary to the State Government (SSG).
Performing the ceremony in Makurdi, Gov Alia said he had confidence in her ability to succeed on the given mandate.
He said her responsibilities include ensuring the effective coordination of activities, fostering collaboration across ministries, driving policies and initiative that would led to the sustainable development of Benue state.
He expressed confidence that with the new SSG, his administration would continue to build a Benue that would be prosperous, inclusive and focused on delivering tangible benefits to the citizens.
He said his administration recognised the important roles women play in society, adding that her appointment as the first female SSG reflected his government’s determination to elevate merit and diversity in leadership.
“As the first woman ever to be appointed as SSG in Benue State, Barrister Aber’s appointment is a testament to the confidence I and indeed this administration have in the abilities of the women of Benue.
“We recognize the important roles women play in our society and this appointment reflects our determination to elevate merit and diversity in leadership,” the governor said.
He called on public servants, stakeholders and the entire people of Benue to give the new SSG and his administration the needed support to succeed.
Gov Alia explained that her background made her to qualify for the position and expressed hope that she would execute her duties with the highest level of integrity, dedication and affection.
In her response, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Barr. Serumun Aber, appreciated God and Gov. Alia for the opportunity given her to serve the state as the first female SSG.
Aber promised to pilot the affairs of her office with diligence and dedication in line with the administration’s blueprint, setting the foundation for a better and more prosperous Benue.
She said her role was to ensure that the seven points agenda of Gov Alia were implemented by working closely with the governor, public servants and other critical stakeholders towards building a prosperous future for Benue.
The SSG explained that as a mother she understood the importance of fostering an inclusive environment where every voice was heard.