A historical appraisal of positive change among youths for sustainable development in the Benue valley: A study of Benue state, Nigeria, 1976-2023

Abstract

Benue Valley comprises part or complete Nigeria states of Benue, Kogi, Kwara, FCT, Niger, Kebbi, Kaduna South, Bauchi South, Plateau, Nasarawa, Taraba, Adamawa, Gombe and Borno South. Benue State is one of the 36 states of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which was created in 1976. It is blessed with a lot of human and material resources. However, sustainable development of the State appears to be dicey. It was on account of this that the paper was conceived to investigate the circumstances behind this ugly trend. Using appropriate interviews and a careful review of secondary sources, the paper finds out that the youths are the powerhouse of the State. However, they were ignorant of their central position in the scheme of affairs in the State. Therefore, they accept to be used as instruments of destruction at the ripe age when they were supposed to exhibit their positive talents, embrace quality mentorship and create a future for the State. Consequently, the State was robbed of opportunities for development. It was doomed! The study concluded that the youths should eliminate ignorance and promote the spirit of positive change in order to achieve sustainable development in the State.