Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has signed the 2025 budget of N550 billion into law, ushering in what he described as a new era of progress and prosperity for the state.
The landmark event took place late Monday at the Benue State Government House in Makurdi, just hours after the State Assembly passed the appropriation bill.
The 2025 budget, aptly tagged “Human Capital Development, Food Security, and the Digital Economy,” is estimated at N550,112,988,930.45.
Its passage by the State Assembly during a plenary session presided over by Speaker Hon. Hyacinth Aondona Dajoh marked the culmination of intense deliberations.
The budget’s signing coincided with the launch of three pivotal initiatives: the State’s 10-year Development Plan, the State Nutrition Policy, and the State Social Protection Policy.
Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Alia described the moment as a turning point in the state’s journey toward a brighter future.
“The signing into law of the 2025 budget and the launch of these critical policies mark the beginning of a new chapter in our state’s story. We are laying the groundwork for a future where every citizen has the opportunity to succeed, to live in dignity, and to contribute to the growth of our state,” the governor said.
Governor Alia emphasized that the 2025 budget is not merely a financial plan but a blueprint for transformative change. It prioritizes expanding access to quality education, improving healthcare, and fostering lifelong learning, creating a framework for sustainable human capital development.
The digital economy was a significant focus of the budget. Governor Alia reiterated his administration’s commitment to driving digital transformation by investing in infrastructure, internet access, and innovation hubs. He highlighted the potential of these initiatives to enhance digital literacy, create jobs, and spur entrepreneurial growth across Benue State.
“This budget allocates significant resources to the digital transformation of our economy. We are fostering an environment where entrepreneurs and businesses can flourish, ensuring our citizens are equipped for a fast-evolving world,” he stated.
On the Social Protection Policy, the governor described it as a lifeline for the state’s most vulnerable citizens. The policy aims to provide financial assistance, healthcare, education, and job training opportunities for those in need, reflecting the government’s dedication to creating an inclusive society.
Governor Alia extended his gratitude to the Benue State House of Assembly for their swift passage of the budget and to the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) for facilitating the development of key policies.
“These collective efforts will bring about positive change and lasting prosperity in Benue State. Our work is just beginning, but together, we will build a brighter and more resilient future for generations to come,” the governor concluded.
As Benue State embarks on this ambitious new chapter, residents remain hopeful that the 2025 budget and its associated policies will deliver tangible benefits, addressing pressing challenges while positioning the state as a leader in human capital development, food security, and digital innovation.