Benue State Governor Appoints Music Icon TuFace as Technical Adviser on Entertainment and Community Outreach
Makurdi, Benue State – In a bold move to leverage the influence of entertainment for social and community development, Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has appointed Nigerian music legend Innocent Idibia, better known as TuFace, as his Technical Adviser on Entertainment and Community Outreach.
The announcement was made official through a statement from the Governor’s office. TuFace, a Grammy-nominated artist celebrated for his Afrobeat hits like “African Queen” and “If Love is a Crime,” brings decades of experience in the music industry to this new role.
As one of Nigeria’s most iconic figures, he has not only entertained millions but also used his platform to advocate for social issues, including youth empowerment and community unity.
Governor Alia, who assumed office earlier this year, emphasized that the appointment aligns with his administration’s vision to revitalize Benue State’s cultural sector and foster greater community engagement.
“Innocent Idibia, or TuFace as he’s affectionately known, is more than just a musician; he’s a symbol of resilience and positive change.
His expertise will help us harness entertainment as a tool for outreach, promoting tourism, youth development, and social cohesion in Benue,” the governor stated in a press release.
TuFace, whose real name is Innocent Ujah Idibia, expressed his enthusiasm for the role during a virtual briefing. “I’m honored to serve my home country in this capacity, especially in Benue, a state rich in culture and talent.
This is an opportunity to give back and use entertainment to address real community challenges, like youth unemployment and cultural preservation.
I look forward to working with Governor Alia to create meaningful initiatives,” he said.
The appointment comes at a time when many Nigerian states are seeking innovative ways to engage their youth amid economic challenges.
Benue State, known for its agricultural prowess and diverse ethnic groups, has faced issues such as insecurity and underdevelopment in its entertainment sector.
Experts believe TuFace’s involvement could boost local events, attract investments, and inspire upcoming artists, potentially positioning Benue as a hub for creative industries in Nigeria.
This decision has been met with widespread praise on social media, with fans and stakeholders hailing it as a progressive step.
However, some critics have questioned whether the role might be more symbolic than substantive, urging the government to outline clear deliverables.
As TuFace prepares to assume his duties, details of his advisory responsibilities are expected to be unveiled soon, including potential collaborations with local artists and community programs.
This appointment underscores Governor Alia’s commitment to blending governance with cultural dynamism, signaling a new era for entertainment-driven development in Benue State.