Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State officially signed the 2024 Appropriation Bill into law on Friday, December 29, 2023. The budget, amounting to N225,727,395,206.97, is strategically designed to propel infrastructural development, job creation, and poverty alleviation within the state.
Addressing the public, Governor Alia characterized the 2024 budget as the “Budget of Infrastructural Development, Job Creation, and Poverty Alleviation,” deriving its essence from the state’s policy document titled “A Strategic Development Plan for a Greater Benue.” He highlighted that the budget figure underwent revisions from the Benue State House of Assembly.
Breaking down the components of the 2024 budget, Governor Alia specified, “The total recurrent expenditure stands at N110,511,233,965.99, representing 48.9% of the total budget. Conversely, the Capital head amounts to N115,240,361,240.99K, representing 51.1% of the total 2024 budget.” Addressing deficit financing, he noted, “The deficit stands at N34,691,000,000, representing 15.3% of the total 2024 budget.”
Governor Alia emphasized that the budget reflects a steadfast commitment to the well-being of the citizens and the sustained growth of the state. He outlined its trajectory toward a future where communities thrive, the economy flourishes, and citizens experience an enhanced quality of life. Underscoring the significance of infrastructural development, he added, “With this budget, we are making substantial investments in the construction and maintenance of roads, bridges, and essential infrastructure, aiming to ensure the connectivity and empowerment of our communities.”
The governor affirmed the dedication to improving accessibility, connectivity, and overall living standards for citizens, with a focus on offering hope to job seekers and aspiring entrepreneurs. Acknowledging the importance of job creation in fostering a dynamic and resilient economy, Governor Alia expressed gratitude to the legislators for their tireless efforts in ensuring the passage of the budget. He stressed their shared commitment to the welfare of citizens and the progress of the state.
