Hon. Denis Terzungwe Iyaghigba is a seasoned maritime professional and visionary leader with over two decades of experience across Nigeria, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and the United Arab Emirates. He brings deep expertise in marine operations, oil and gas logistics, shipping management, and the emerging blue economy.
An alumnus of the University of Sunderland, United Kingdom, where he earned a B.Sc. (Hons.) in Marine Operations, he also holds both HND and OND in Maritime Transport and Business Management from the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron.
Before his appointment, Hon. Iyaghigba held key leadership positions with Blueseas Shipping Ghana Ltd and Blueseas Maritime Services Abidjan SARL, overseeing multinational operations across West Africa. He also served as regional representative, Prompton Trading DMCC, Dubai, focusing on energy trade and vessel brokerage.
Renowned for his discipline, integrity, and technical depth, Hon. Iyaghigba is driving Benue State’s vision to harness the Benue River for sustainable economic growth and environmental transformation through the blue economy.
Mr. Charles Terfa Ikyaave is a seasoned public administrator with over 25 years of distinguished service in the Benue State Civil Service. Before his posting to the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, he served in key leadership roles within the Office of the Head of Service, where he contributed significantly to policy formulation, administrative reforms, and institutional development.
As the pioneer Permanent Secretary, Mr. Ikyaave brings a wealth of administrative experience and a deep understanding of public sector governance. He has been instrumental in establishing the ministry’s foundational structures, ensuring policy alignment, and fostering inter-agency collaboration for effective implementation of the state’s blue economy agenda.
Mr. Ikyaave is widely respected for his professionalism, integrity, and commitment to excellence in public service qualities that continue to shape the ministry’s operations and strategic direction.
