In a gesture aimed at honouring fallen security personnel and promoting academic excellence, the Benue State Government has awarded scholarships to fifty-three children from fourteen families of deceased police officers and twenty-three students of Notre Dame Secondary School, Mkar, in Gboko Local Government Area.
The scholarship presentation ceremony took place on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at Government College Makurdi, where Governor Hyacinth Alia said the initiative was designed to recognise the sacrifices of officers who lost their lives in the line of duty and to encourage young people to pursue excellence in education and character.
Governor Alia stated that the state government would fully sponsor the education of the children of the fallen police officers for as long as they wished to continue their studies. He added that widows of the officers who intend to return to school would also receive support from the government.
According to the governor, the administration would also provide start-up grants to the widows to enable them establish small businesses and improve their livelihoods.
He noted that while the lives lost cannot be replaced, their sacrifices must never be forgotten.
“This initiative goes beyond the award of scholarships. It is our way of recognising the heroism of these fallen officers and encouraging their children to pursue a future filled with hope and opportunity,” Governor Alia said.
The governor also announced scholarships for twenty-three students of Notre Dame Secondary School, Mkar, in recognition of their outstanding performance in extra-curricular activities. The scholarship package will cover their tuition and external examination fees.
He urged the students to remain disciplined, work hard and continue to develop their talents so they can become responsible citizens who will contribute positively to society.
In their remarks, the Commissioner for Education and Knowledge Management, Dr. Margaret Adamu, along with other education officials, commended the governor for his commitment to education and for supporting families of fallen heroes.
The Commissioner of Police, represented by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Administration) Yakubu Mohammed, and the Director-General of the Bureau of Homeland Security, Air Commodore Jacob Gbamwuan (Rtd.), also praised the initiative, describing it as a beacon of hope for the beneficiaries.
Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Patience Edmond expressed appreciation to the governor for the support extended to the families.
The Principal of Notre Dame Secondary School, Mkar, Reverend Sister Stella Anyanwun, also thanked the state government and assured that the students would continue to make the state proud.
The scholarship initiative forms part of the Benue State Government’s broader efforts to support education and recognise the sacrifices of security personnel who died while protecting the nation.