Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has signed the 2025 budget of Human Capital Development, Food Security, and the Digital Economy, estimated at N550,112,988,930.45, into law.

Recall that the Benue State House of Assembly had earlier, on Monday, December 30, 2024, passed the 2025 Appropriation Bill into law during a plenary session presided over by the Speaker, Hon. Hyacinth Aondona Dajoh.

Governor Alia performed the ceremony on Monday at the Benue State Government House, Makurdi.

He described the event as a pivotal moment in his efforts to ensure a brighter, more prosperous future for the state.

This was contained in a statement on Tuesday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Tersoo Kula.

“The signing into law of the 2025 budget, the formal launch of the 10-year Development Plan, and 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, live in dignity, and contribute to the growth of our state.

“Our work is not finished today; it is just the beginning. Together, we will build a brighter, more resilient future for ourselves and for generations to come.”

He said the budget provides the framework for expanding access to quality education, improving healthcare services, and fostering lifelong learning.

Governor Alia added that his government is committed to equipping every citizen, both young and old, with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to thrive in a fast-evolving world.

Speaking on the digital economy, the governor described it as the future, saying he is committed to leading that charge.

“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 is enhanced, jobs are created, and new opportunities emerge,” he said.

He added that the budget addresses the growing challenges of malnutrition, obesity, and diet-related diseases, emphasizing that the policy is committed to ensuring that Benue citizens, especially children, have access to nutritious, affordable, and safe food.

Governor Alia further disclosed that the launch of the Social Protection Policy signifies his administration’s commitment to creating a safety net for the most vulnerable members of the Benue society. He described the policy as one designed to provide support for those in need, offering financial assistance, healthcare, education, and job training opportunities. He insisted it is a testament to his government’s resolve 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.

Benue Governor signs N550.1bn 2025 budget into law