President Bola Tinubu has shifted his scheduled official visit to Kaduna State and will instead travel to Benue State on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, to directly engage with stakeholders over the persistent violence in the region.
According to a statement released on Sunday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the decision to prioritize Benue followed heightened tensions and devastating attacks that have claimed many lives and displaced communities.
“The President’s visit aims to assess firsthand the recurring crisis that has caused loss of lives and destruction of properties across Benue communities,” Onanuga stated.
During the visit, Tinubu is expected to meet with traditional rulers, political and religious leaders, community figures, and youth representatives in a town hall meeting. The goal, according to the Presidency, is to foster dialogue, restore confidence, and find sustainable solutions to the prolonged unrest.
In preparation, the President has already deployed top government functionaries, including 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 the state.
President Tinubu has consistently condemned the ongoing killings in Benue, urging all parties to embrace peace. “We cannot allow this cycle of violence to continue. We must return to the values of unity, mutual respect, and shared responsibility for peace,” the President was quoted as saying.
He also offered his condolences to victims and their families, assuring that his administration remains committed to protecting lives and restoring peace.
The President was initially scheduled to visit Kaduna State on Wednesday, June 18, to commission various state projects. That visit has now been rescheduled to Thursday, June 19, 2025.
