December 29, (THEWILL) – Governor Hyacinth Alia has signed the 2024 Budget estimates into law, describing it as a step towards the progress and prosperity of Benue state.
The Governor, who performed the ceremony at the Old Banquet Hall, Government House Makurdi on Friday, Christened it as “the budget for infrastructural development, job creation and poverty alleviation.”
He explained that the budget, has an aggregated financing to the sum of N225.7 billion, saying out of the total aggregated financing sum, there is a recurrent expenditure of N110.5 billion, representing 48.9% of the total budget, while the Capital head stands at N115.2 billion representing 51.1% of the total 2024 budget.
According to Governor Alia, the deficit financing of the budget stands at N34.6 billion, representing 15.3% of the total budget sum.
“The budget will serve as a roadmap, which will chart the course for a future where Benue communities will thrive, with the economy flourishing and the citizens of the state enjoying an improved quality of life”.
Citing examples of critical areas covered in the budget, Governor Alia said the administration is going to invest significantly in the construction and maintenance of roads, bridges and other vital infrastructure, adding that job seekers and entrepreneurs will also smile.
“This budget is a beacon of hope for job seekers and aspiring entrepreneurs. We understand the importance of job creation in fostering a dynamic and resilient economy. By allocating resources to various sectors, we aim to stimulate economic activities that will, in turn, generate employment opportunities.”
He posited that whether, through public works projects, support for small and medium-sized enterprises, agriculture or investments in emerging industries, his administration is committed to creating a conducive environment for job growth, as poverty alleviation, remains at the forefront of his agenda.
While appreciating the legislators, for their tireless efforts at ensuring early passage of the Budget estimates into law, the Governor, called for the support of all Benue people so that together, they can build a future that is characterised by prosperity, inclusivity and shared success.
The approved Budget estimates were earlier presented to the Governor by the Director General of the Benue State Budget and Planning Commission, Professor Jerome Andohol, for Assent.
Prominent amongst those in attendance during the signing ceremony, include the Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Hon. Aondona Dajoh, the State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Austin Agada, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice and Public Order, Barr. Fidelis Mnyim.
Others were, Commissioner for Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, Hon. Michael Oglegba, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Rt. Hon. Paul Biam and other political to-notchers in the state.
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