July 7, 2025 will remain a remarkable in Benue State as torents of accolades, felicitations and goodwill messages continue to pour in as Benue State Governor, Rev Fr Dr Hyacinth Iormem Alia marks 35 years as a priest of the Catholic Church.
In spite of the Governor being out of the country on official trip with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, his friends, brother priests, colleagues, and well-wishers from all walks of life did not let the day go unnoticed as they took to their social media handles expressing sentiment of love and best wishes to the priest-Governor.
Most of the messages conveyed deep appreciation for the selflessness, compassion, and wisdom demonstrated by Governor Alia in counseling, guiding, and uplifting those entrusted to his care, while others highlight the way his spiritual guidance and teachings have inspired personal growth, strengthened faith, and fostered sense of belonging amongst the people under his guidance.
Fr. James Tagesa specifically acknowledged in his goodwill message, Governor Alia’s transition from the altar to the leadership of the state, saying that is a testament to the priestly commitment to serve people in all dimensions of life.
According to him; “His people oriented governance shows how the priesthood can shape leaders of vision, compassion, and courage”.
The heartfelt wishes serve as a testament to the profound respect and admiration people have for Governor Alia, who accepted self-sacrifice and chose the path of priesthood.
Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia was ordained a Catholic priest for the Makurdi Diocese on 7 July 1990, at a ceremony officiated by Bishop Athanasius Atule Usuh .
His classmates ordained with him included, Rev. Fr. Samuel Tumba, Rev. Fr. Sylvester Omoke, Rev. Fr. Bernard Asogo, Rev. Fr. Marcellenus Yese, Rev. Fr. Francis Agba, Bishop Thomas Ayoo Tsav (Methodist Church), Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Doki and Moses Iorapuu.
