BREAKING: President Tinubu Arrives Benue State, Set For Townhall Meeting Over Rising Killings

President Bola Tinubu has arrived at the Makurdi Airport located at the tactical air command in Benue State. 

He arrived at the Nigerian Air Force Base, Makurdi, at about 12:58 pm.

The state earlier declared a public holiday in honour of the President visit.

An earlier statement signed by Serumun Deborah, the Secretary to the State Government, noted this. 

Earlier, SaharaReporters reported that in a circular dated June 17, 2025, and signed by Hon. Francis U. Ngutswen, the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Hyacinth Alia on Special Groups Mobilisation, support groups were explicitly instructed to stage a “colourful shoulder-to-shoulder spread/procession” in honour of Tinubu's arrival.

"I am pleased to notify you at the instance of our dear Governor, His Excellency Fr Dr Hyacinth lormem Alia, the Leader of All Progressives Congress in Benue State, to mobilize massively to give a rousing welcome to our President," the circular reads.

According to the directive, the “Support Groups Constituency is required to form a colourful shoulder-to-shoulder spread/procession from Airport to Wurukum Roundabout and down to Government House Makurdi where the President will address a Town-hall Meeting.”

Further adding to the ceremonial preparations, the document notes: “Accreditation will be done strictly by the numbers and colours,” and urged “Leaders of Groups” to liaise with the Office of the SSA to the Governor on Special Groups Mobilization for more information.

SaharaReporters earlier reported that  Tinubu was scheduled to visit Benue State following a surge in killings across the state.

This was contained in a press statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.

"President Bola Tinubu has rescheduled his official visit to Kaduna State. Instead, he will travel to Benue State on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, as part of renewed efforts to foster peace and address the persistent conflict affecting communities in the state," the statement read in part.

"The President's visit aims to assess firsthand the recurring crisis that has claimed numerous lives and caused significant destruction."

It was further stated that "during his stay, President Tinubu will meet with all stakeholders—including traditional rulers, political, religious, community leaders, and youth groups—to seek lasting solutions to the hostilities."

"In preparation for the visit, President Tinubu has already dispatched the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the Inspector General of Police, heads of intelligence agencies, the National Security Adviser, and the Chairmen of the Senate and House Defence Committees to Benue State."

The statement also noted that the President is expected to hold a town hall meeting with all stakeholders during the visit.