Benue SSG: One Year of Diligence and Dedication
Bridget Tikyaa
It has been one year of purposeful leadership, diligence, and dedication to the delivery of Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia’s impactful policies and programmes since the appointment of Barr.Dcns Deborah Aber Serumun, as the first female Secretary to the Government of Benue State, on September 9, 2025.
From September 12, 2024 when she assumed duty, the seasoned solicitor and arbitrator and team player has deployed excellent analytical and interpersonal skills to steadily steer this very important office, providing leadership in coordinating government affairs and successfully undertaking serious high stake engagements and assignments attached to the office.
She has no doubt fully engaged with her responsibilities from day one, as she learns every day and delivers results. So far, progress has been made in assisting the governor and the government of Benue state to deliver on mandates freely given by the people, confronting challenges and delivering solutions and generally delivering good governance to the people of Benue State.
It is instructive to note that the office of the Secretary to the State Government serves as the secretariat to the State Executive Council, ensuring the implementation of decisions and policies. It coordinates the activities of ministries and ensures follow-up actions on government decisions.
The SSG’s office also drives policy formulation, harmonization, and implementation across various ministries and departments, providing administrative support to the Governor and other top government officials, and maintains relations with the governments at the Federal and state levels, organizations, and other bodies. Very importantly, the office of the Secretary to the State Government plays a vital role in security and emergency response efforts, providing the logistics needed for effective operations.
These functions highlight the significance of the Secretary to the State Government as a key link between the Governor, ministries, and other stakeholders.
One year on, Barr Aber has been a key player in the Benue success story as she diligently handles the increasing demands of her office, working more assiduously and supporting the executive governor to deliver the dividends of democracy.
No doubt, the years ahead are full of expectations from the people of Benue state, and with hardworking appointees like the SSG matching steadily with the governor, a new Benue State will unfold.
For those keenly observing events in Benue State, Dcns Aber’s excellent performance is a celebration of the women in Benue State, of their contributions to statecraft, resilience, and steadfast efforts to make the state great.
As the first female SSG, she has been effectively coordinating government activities, fostering collaboration across ministries, and driving policies and initiatives for the state’s sustainable development,in addition she has passion for humanitarian services as well as staff/appointees’ welfare.
Bridget Tikyaa
Is the Principal Special Assistant to the Governor on Media Publicity and Communication Strategy
