President Bola Tinubu has changed his travel schedule, postponing a planned visit to Kaduna State and instead turning his attention to Benue State, which continues to suffer from deadly attacks and unrest. The visit to Benue is now scheduled for Wednesday, June 18, 2025.
The decision was announced on Monday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, through a formal statement. He said the change in plans was made so that President Tinubu can personally assess the situation in Benue, where violence has claimed many lives and destroyed several communities.
“The President’s visit aims to assess firsthand the recurring crisis that has claimed numerous lives and caused significant destruction,” Onanuga stated.
Originally, Tinubu was supposed to be in Kaduna on June 18 to open several completed state projects. That visit has now been shifted to Thursday, June 19.
During his trip to Benue, President Tinubu is expected to meet with a wide range of local leaders and community groups. According to the statement, these include traditional rulers, political figures, religious leaders, youth representatives, and other key stakeholders. The aim is to encourage cooperation and find lasting solutions to the conflicts troubling the region.
“In preparation for the visit, President Tinubu has already dispatched the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the Inspector General of Police, heads of intelligence agencies, the National Security Adviser, and the Chairmen of the Senate and House Defence Committees to Benue State.
“The President is expected to hold a town hall meeting with all stakeholders during the visit,” the statement read.
President Tinubu has earlier spoken out against the violent attacks in Benue, calling for peace and unity. He urged all sides involved to end the fighting and work together for the sake of the state’s future.
He also sent his condolences to the families of those who lost loved ones, as well as others affected by the ongoing violence.
