Benue Bureau of Local Govt. Joins New Media Class

In the bid to confirm with modernity, the Benue State Bureau of Local Government And Chieftaincy Affairs has joined the new media family with establishment of the website to meet operational demands and achieve total institutional turnaround.

Launching the website in Makurdi, Permanent Secretary, of the Bureau, Mr. Terna Ayu disclosed that the growing need for accessing a reliable information to administer the local government and chieftaincy affairs has necessitated creation of the website.

According to him, successful establishment of the project was achievement not to be regarded merely as symbolic. He said, the happiness about success was a breakthrough not to be overstated. 

Ayu said "for too long, access to information about the activities, polices and programmes of the Bureau has been largely limited to physical interactions and conventional media."

According to him, the analog system "often created delays, limited the reach and reduced public engagement" such that the website would break the barrier and open the doors for public access.

Enumerating benefits, Terna Ayu said the initiative would "serve as a central hub for information dissemination, provide updates on policies, guidelines, circulars and activities of the Bureau."

He said equally that the website would "enhance communication between the Bureau, Local Government Councils, the Traditional Institution and the general public around the world." 

Aside information sharing, Mr. Ayu stated that it would serve as the tool for promoting transparency, accountability and provide opportunity for the public "to access vital information about local government administration's ongoing reforms and service delivery initiatives." 

On this development he said "this openness builds trust and strengthens relationship between government and the people." The top bureaucrat noted that the platform would enhance effectiveness of the local government system by facilitating quicker decision making, improve the keeping of records and streamline the administrative processes.

He urged officials of the system to prioritize the platform for accessing the relevant documents meant to administer directives without delays.

Acknowledging the process as necessary for improving efficiency and productivity, Ayu encouraged traditional institutions in the state to see the device as providing the "visibility and recognition" that created "avenue to document, preserve and showcase the rich cultural heritage and leadership structures that play vital role in governance at the grassroots level."

Beyond bureaucracy, Mr. Ayu said, investors, researchers and development partners requiring credible data and information about the local administrative system could benefit from the website.

Explaining that the success depended on the collective commitment of the system's departmental officials and stakeholders to regularly update the website with accurate information including active utilization of the platform, he appreciated Governor Hyacinth Alia for supporting the project and assured of making it "remain dynamic, relevant and user friendly." 

Principal partner, Jayjaysol Global Concept Ltd, Dr. Fanen Upwa said unveiling the "important digital transformation project" guaranteed "effective governance in today's world" that "depends on strong, reliable and forward-thinking ICT systems." 

Upwa stated that as partners, his firm with over twenty years of experience was "committed to delivering solutions that are practical, secure and aligned with institutional goals." 

He concluded that members of the public could reach the web page on www.blgca.org.

Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Benue State Council, Comrade Bemdoo Ugber applauded the effort and said "in the era where information is power and digital presence defines institutional relevance, the website is both timely and strategic." 

He noted "it will undoubtedly serve as a vital platform for disseminating accurate information, especially in the age of misinformation" since citizen journalism has taken the centre stage. 

According to him, today, everyone with android phone poses as a journalist. He said the union recognized critical need for the timely releases of credible information and the role the media play to make accountable development take roots.

Ugber reminded of the role in democracy that, the media move against corruption as well as expose financial mismanagement and amplify citizens voices.

The NUJ Chairman urged the authorities of the Bureau to facilitate the accountability press briefing approved by Governor Alia to enable all local councils in the state to undertake.