Gov Alia signs Benue 2025 budget into law

Benue state governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has signed into law the 2025 budget of Human Capital Development, Food Security, and the Digital Economy, totaling N550,112,988,930.45.

The Benue State House of Assembly had earlier passed the 2025 appropriation bill during its plenary session on Monday, December 30, 2024, presided over by Speaker Hon. Hyacinth Aondona Dajoh.

Governor Alia performed the signing at the Benue state government House, Makurdi, on the same day.

The ceremony also featured the launch of the state’s 10-year development plan, the state nutrition policy, and the state social protection policy.

Describing the event as a transformative moment for the state, the governor said:

“The signing into law of the 2025 budget, alongside the launch of these critical policies, marks the beginning of a new chapter in our state’s story. We are laying the groundwork for a future where every citizen can succeed, live with dignity, and contribute to the growth of our state.”

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The 2025 budget focuses on expanding access to quality education, improving healthcare services, and fostering lifelong learning.

Governor Alia emphasised his administration’s commitment to equipping citizens with the knowledge and resources needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

On the digital economy, the governor stated, “The digital economy is the future, and we are committed to leading that charge for Benue State.”

The event marked a significant step in the governor’s vision to ensure a brighter and more resilient future for Benue State and its people.

“This budget allocates significant resources to the digital transformation of our economy, while investing in digital infrastructure, internet access, and innovation hubs, to foster an environment where entrepreneurs and businesses can flourish, digital literacy enhanced, jobs created, and openings for new opportunities,” he stated.

On the Nutritional Policy, the Governor said it addresses the growing challenges of malnutrition, obesity, and diet-related diseases, adding that the policy is committed to ensuring that Benue citizens, especially the children have access to nutritious, affordable, and safe food.

The Governor further disclosed that the launch of the Social Protection Policy signified his administration’s commitment to creating a safety net for the most vulnerable members of the Benue society.

He described the policy as one that was designed to provide support for those in need, offering financial assistance, healthcare, education, and job training opportunities, insisting it is a testament to the resolve of his government to protect every citizen, regardless of their circumstances.

He appreciated the Benue State House of Assembly for passing the Appropriation bill into law, as well as the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), for facilitating some of the critical policies, saying the collective efforts will bring about positive change and lasting prosperity in the state.