Benjamin Teryima Ashaver, a seasoned administrator significantly contributed to local governance and policy development in Benue State. His career reflects a commitment to public service, education, and community development.

Born on April 20, 1964, in Chito, Ukum Local Government Area (LGA), he has built an impressive career spanning local government administration, state governance, and education policy.

Key Highlights

• Education: Holds multiple degrees, including a Master’s in Industrial & Labour Relations (UI) and an M.Sc in Public Administration (BSU), currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Political Science.
• Public Service:
• Began as an Agricultural Assistant (1982) and rose through the ranks to become a Director in Local Government Administration.
• Served as Interim Administrator & Caretaker Chairman of Ukum LGA (2004, 2006–2007).
• Appointed Benue State Commissioner for Agriculture, Education, and Works & Transport under Governor Gabriel Suswam (2007–2015).
• Leadership: Known for unifying political factions and executing grassroots development projects in Ukum.
• Professional & Religious Roles:
• Fellow, Institute of Corporate Administration of Nigeria.
• Patron, Boys’ Brigade (NKST Church).
• International Exposure: Attended conferences and workshops across Africa, Europe, America, and Asia.

Personal Background

• Full Name: Benjamin Teryima Ashaver
• Date of Birth: April 20, 1964
• Place of Birth: Chito, Azendeshi Council Ward, Ukum LGA, Benue State, Nigeria
• Family: Married to Mrs. Doosuur Ashaver, with children.

Education

1. Primary: NKST Primary School, Pevikyaa (1972–1977).
2. Secondary: NKST Secondary School, Zaki-Biam (1977–1982) – GCE O’Level.
3. Diplomas:

• Ordinary National Diploma (OND) & Higher National Diploma (HND) – Benue State Polytechnic, Ugbokolo (1983–1985; 1986–1988).

1. Higher Degrees:

• MILR (Industrial & Labour Relations) – University of Ibadan (1994–1995).
• M.Sc (Public Administration) – Benue State University (2005–2006).
• Ongoing: Ph.D. in Political Science (Benue State University).

Career Highlights

• Public Service:
• Began as Agricultural Assistant-in-Training (Ukum LGA, 1982).
• Transitioned to Administration after local government restructuring (1985).
• Leadership Roles:
• First NULGE Chairman, Ukum LGA (1991).
• NULGE State Treasurer (1994–1998).
• Director, General Services & Administration (2001).
• Interim Administrator, Ukum LGA (2004).
• Caretaker Chairman, Ukum LGA (2006–2007).
• State Appointments:
• Commissioner for Agriculture & Natural Resources (2007).
• Commissioner for Education (until 2015).
• Commissioner for Works & Transport (under Gov. Gabriel Suswam’s administration).

Achievements

• Spearheaded grassroots development projects in Ukum LGA.
• Bridged divides among feuding factions in Ukum leadership.
• Attended international conferences on governance (Australia, Europe, America, Asia).

Professional & Religious Affiliations

• Member: Chartered Institute of Personnel Management.
• Fellow: Institute of Corporate Administration of Nigeria.
• Religious: Patron of the Boys’ Brigade (NKST Church).