H.E Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia
Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia is a Catholic priest, politician, and the current Executive Governor of Benue State, Nigeria. He made history in 2023 by becoming the second Catholic priest to be elected as governor of the state, following in the footsteps of the late Reverend Father Moses Adasu.
He was sworn in as Governor on May 29, 2023. His administration has focused heavily on the timely payment of civil servant salaries, pension reforms, and infrastructural development in the state capital, Makurdi.
He holds a Doctorate in Biomedical Ethics from Duquesne University, Pennsylvania, and has multiple degrees in Religious Studies and Peace Studies.
Friday Opening Day Gala – 20th Nov
Official Opening Ceremony
Welcome address by Festival Director, Keynote by Governor of Benue State, Commissioner for Information, Commisioner for Youth Development, Commissioner for Art, Culture and Tourism, Cultural performance by Tiv, Idoma and Igede Traditional Dance Troupe