…launches 10-year Dev Plan, Nutrition, Social Protection Policies, lauds UNICEF

By Peter Duru, Makurdi

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue state has signed into law the state’s 2025 appropriation bill of N550.1b and also launched the State’s 10-year Development Plan, the State’s Nutrition Policy, and the State’s Social Protection Policy.

Christened budget of Human Capital Development, Food Security the Digital Economy, the bill was passed Monday by the Benue State House of Assembly.

Speaking after assenting the bill, the Governor noted that ”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, to live in dignity, and to 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 stated that the 2025 budget provides the framework for expanding access to quality education, improving healthcare services, and fostering lifelong learning emphasizing that his administration was committed to equipping every citizen, both young and old, with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to thrive in a fast-evolving world.

While acknowledging that Digital Economy holds much for the future, the Governor declared his commitment to leading that charge in the state noting that “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.”

On the Nutrition Policy, he said it would address 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.

He maintained that the launch of the Social Protection Policy underscored 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, stressing that it was a proof of the resolve of his government to protect every citizen, regardless of their circumstances.

The Governor who lauded the Benue State House of Assembly for the speedy passage of the fiscal estimate, as well as the United Nations Children’s Fund, UNICEF, for facilitating some of the critical policies noted that the collective efforts would undoubtedly bring about positive developments and lasting prosperity in the state.