In a bold step to restore institutional discipline and strengthen governance, the Benue State Government has inaugurated a high-level committee to review the structure, mandates, and supervisory frameworks of its Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
The inauguration, which took place at Government House, Makurdi, was led by Deputy Governor Barr. Sam Ode, mni, representing Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, who also chairs the committee.
Speaking at the event, Barr. Ode highlighted the gradual breakdown of operational order in the public service, noting that several MDAs had deviated from standard procedures, weakening administrative coordination. He explained that urgent steps are required to realign agencies under their proper ministries and restore accountability.
“The standard operational procedures that once guided our ministries, departments, and agencies have been seriously distorted. We must take decisive steps to reposition our governance structure for optimal service delivery,” Barr. Ode said.
The committee brings together seasoned professionals from both within and outside government, tasked with ensuring that MDAs operate efficiently under appropriate supervision. Among them is Chief Bernard Hon, SAN, who assured that the committee would approach its mandate with diligence and integrity, leveraging the collective expertise of its members to deliver actionable recommendations.
Mandate of the Committee:
- Examine external state agencies, bureaus, boards, commissions, and state-owned companies, recommending alignment with the appropriate ministries.
- Review schedules of Special Advisers, Technical Advisers, Principal Special Assistants, Senior Special Assistants, and Personal Assistants to ensure effective coordination.
- Identify overlapping mandates among MDAs and propose measures to eliminate duplication.
- Review draft rules guiding official conduct, transparency, and protocol to enhance smooth government operations.
Committee Membership Includes:
- Chairman: Barr. Samuel Ode, mni, Deputy Governor
- Key Members: Chief Bernard Iyorliam Hon, SAN; Dr. Agbogbo Ode, Head of Service; Hon. Benjamin Ashaver, PhD, Commissioner for Agriculture; Hon. Peter Oboh Egbo, Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism; Prof. Jerome Andohol, DG, Planning Commission, and other distinguished professionals.
- Secretary: Moses I. Atagher, Esq., Chief of Staff to the Governor
The committee will undertake a thorough review of the legal and administrative frameworks governing MDAs, proposing reforms to enhance coordination, accountability, and efficiency across the Benue State public service. Recommendations are expected within two months.
