The Benue State Government has declared Wednesday, June 18, 2025, as a public holiday in honour of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s planned one-day visit to the state. This announcement was made on Tuesday by the Secretary to the State Government, Serumun Deborah Aber.
According to the statement, the President’s visit is a condolence mission to sympathize with the government and people of Benue State following a string of deadly attacks, including the recent massacre in Yelewata, Guma Local Government Area, which claimed over 200 lives and displaced thousands.
The Presidency had earlier confirmed that President Tinubu would adjust his schedule to personally visit Benue—a gesture seen as both symbolic and significant amidst rising concern over the persistent insecurity in the state.
The state government clarified that the public holiday applies to most public workers, while essential service providers such as healthcare personnel, security agencies, and banking staff are exempt. Citizens across the state are encouraged to come out in large numbers to welcome the President and his entourage.
President Tinubu’s visit is taking place amid heightened tensions and renewed national calls for comprehensive security reforms to address the recurring violence that has plagued communities across Benue in recent months.
