Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has transmitted the names of his first batch of commissioner-nominees to the State House of Assembly for screening and confirmation, signaling the beginning of a new phase in the formation of his administration.

The list, submitted on Thursday, contains nominees for key ministries as the governor moves to consolidate governance nearly three months after assuming office.

Speaker of the Assembly, Hon. Aondona Dajoh, who confirmed receipt of the letter from the governor, said the screening exercise would commence promptly in line with legislative procedures.

While the full list of nominees was not immediately disclosed to the public, insiders reveal it includes a mix of technocrats and political loyalists drawn from different parts of the state, in what appears to be an attempt to balance competence with political inclusiveness.

Governor Alia had earlier pledged to appoint individuals of integrity and proven capacity to drive the development agenda of his administration. The nomination process has been closely watched by political stakeholders and citizens alike, many of whom have urged the governor to prioritize merit over partisan considerations.

A second batch of nominees is expected in the coming days as the administration continues its efforts to fully constitute the State Executive Council.

The screening and confirmation process is anticipated to be completed swiftly, paving the way for the commissioners to assume their roles in addressing pressing challenges across health, education, infrastructure, and security sectors in the state.