By Amos Aar
Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State on Monday launched a 10-year development plan for the state as he signed into law the 2025 budget.
The budget, themed: “Human Capital Development, Food Security, and the Digital Economy,” totalled N550.1 billion.
The budget signing ceremony held shortly after it was passed by the Benue State House of Assembly on Monday, December 30, 2024, during a plenary session presided over by the Speaker, Hon. Hyacinth Aondona Dajoh.
According to the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Tersoo Kula, the budget signing ceremony held at the Government House, Makurdi, alongside the launch of the 10-year development plan, the state nutrition policy, and the state social protection policy.
Speaking at the event, Governor Alia described the occasion as a pivotal step toward a brighter future for the state.
“The signing of the 2025 budget and the launch of these critical policies mark the beginning of a new chapter for Benue State.
“We are laying the groundwork for a future where every citizen has the opportunity to succeed and contribute to our state’s growth,” Alia said.
He emphasised that the 2025 budget prioritises expanding access to quality education, improving healthcare, and fostering lifelong learning.
He highlighted digital economy as a key focus, pledging to invest in digital infrastructure, internet access, and innovation hubs to create jobs and support entrepreneurship.
“This budget allocates significant resources for digital transformation, aiming to enhance digital literacy and create new opportunities for growth,” Alia noted.
He also addressed the state nutrition policy, which aims to combat malnutrition and ensure access to nutritious and affordable food, particularly for children.
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The social protection policy, he added, is designed to provide a safety net for vulnerable groups through financial assistance, healthcare, education, and job training.
Governor Alia expressed gratitude to the Benue State House of Assembly for their support in passing the budget and acknowledged UNICEF’s role in facilitating key policies.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering development and prosperity for all citizens.
The event signals a renewed focus on sustainable development and inclusivity in Benue State, with the governor calling for collective effort to achieve these ambitious goals.
