President Bola Tinubu has announced that he will visit Benue State on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, to commiserate with residents following renewed attacks and killings by suspected Fulani herdsmen. The president made this known on Monday while commissioning the Greater Abuja Water Supply Network (Loops 1, 2, 5 & 6) in the Federal Capital City (FCC), Abuja.
Speaking during the event, Tinubu expressed his deep sympathy with the people of Benue and emphasized the importance of peace and unity, urging residents to remain calm and avoid internal division.
> “While I sympathise with the Benue people, I have spoken to the governor, the leadership, and the people of Benue to accept our condolences and try hard — very consciously — to maintain peace and harmony among themselves,” Tinubu stated.
> “I have always said we are one single, huge family living in the same house — perhaps in different rooms — but we must live together in harmony. That should be the reward of our diversity. We must learn to manage our anger and frustrations.”
The president further revealed that he would adjust his itinerary to accommodate the visit to Benue, saying, “I will adjust my programme and go see the Benue people on Wednesday.”
Top Security Chiefs, FG Officials Already in Benue Ahead of Visit
In preparation for the presidential visit, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), the National Security Adviser (NSA), the Inspector General of Police (IGP), heads of intelligence agencies, and the chairmen of the Senate and House Committees on Defence have all been dispatched to Benue State.
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga released a statement confirming the visit and explaining its purpose.
> “During his stay, President Tinubu will meet with all stakeholders — including traditional rulers, political, religious, and community leaders, as well as youth groups — to seek lasting solutions to the hostilities,” the statement noted.
Tinubu is also expected to hold a town hall meeting to directly engage with community members and other relevant stakeholders.
The president has repeatedly condemned the violence in Benue and called on all Nigerians to embrace peace, tolerance, and mutual understanding. He also extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and those affected by the ongoing crisis.
Kaduna Visit Rescheduled to June 19
According to the original itinerary released over the weekend, Tinubu was slated to visit Kaduna State on Wednesday to commission key government projects. However, this trip has been officially moved to Thursday, June 19, 2025, to accommodate the urgent visit to Benue.
