By Yahaya Idris, Makurdi
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate for the 2027 election in Benue State, Chief Michael Aondoakaa (SAN), has pledged to establish a ₦2 billion scholarship and student-support scheme for indigent students of Benue origin if elected governor.
Aondoakaa made the promise on Monday while speaking with journalists in Makurdi, where he outlined major components of his development agenda for the state.
He said the proposed scheme would provide financial assistance to qualified Benue students in tertiary institutions, ensuring that no student is forced to abandon higher education because of financial difficulties.
According to him, beneficiaries would be expected to repay only reasonable amounts after graduation and securing employment, making the initiative sustainable for future generations.
Aondoakaa Backs NELFUND Model
The former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), describing it as a significant intervention in improving access to tertiary education.
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Aondoakaa said his proposed Benue scholarship programme would be modelled partly on the NELFUND framework, with modifications to address the specific educational and economic circumstances of Benue students.
He explained that the initiative would combine financial support with accountability while empowering beneficiaries to complete their education and subsequently contribute to the development of the state.
Targets Rural Development
Aondoakaa also promised to prioritize rural development, saying his administration would pursue a people-centred approach to governance and ensure that infrastructure is equitably distributed across Benue.
He expressed concern over what he described as years of neglect of rural communities despite their significant contributions to the state’s agricultural economy.
The PDP candidate questioned the concentration of development projects in Makurdi and other urban centres while several rural communities continue to grapple with poor roads and inadequate basic infrastructure.
He promised that his administration would distribute projects fairly across the state and focus on programmes capable of producing direct and measurable improvements in the lives of citizens.
Aondoakaa Links Rural Roads to Security
On insecurity, Aondoakaa linked the worsening security situation in parts of Benue to the weakening of local government administration and poor rural infrastructure.
He argued that dilapidated roads in remote communities often make it difficult for security agencies to respond promptly to attacks and other security threats.
Aondoakaa also lamented what he described as the collapse of the local government system despite the Supreme Court judgment affirming local government autonomy.
He said granting full autonomy to local governments would strengthen grassroots governance and enable council authorities to implement projects that address the immediate needs of their communities.
Promises Local Government Autonomy
The PDP flagbearer said local governments under his administration would have greater responsibility and resources to improve healthcare, education, agriculture and rural infrastructure.
He argued that decentralising governance would bring government closer to the people and improve service delivery across the state.
Raises Land, Ranching Concerns
Aondoakaa also criticised what he described as the inequitable distribution of resources and development projects across Benue State.
He faulted the current administration for, according to him, failing to take a clear position on issues concerning the earmarking of Benue land for public ranching.
The former minister maintained that although every Nigerian has the constitutional right to freedom of movement and lawful economic activities, such activities must be conducted within the framework of existing laws.
Promises Open-Door Government
Aondoakaa sympathised with Benue residents over what he described as the inaccessibility of the present administration and promised to establish an open-door government if elected.
He said his administration would encourage citizens to participate actively in governance and make government more responsive to the needs of ordinary people.
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He listed security, quality education, agricultural revival, improved healthcare and inclusive governance among the major pillars of his vision for Benue.
Aondoakaa said the ultimate objective was to restore what he described as Benue’s lost glory, create opportunities for young people and ensure that development reaches communities across the state.