By Aloysius Umalo, Makurdi
Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, on Tuesday signed the 2025 budget of Human Capital Development, Food Security, and the Digital Economy into law.
The N550,112,988,930.45 budget coincided with the launch of the State's 10-year Development Plan, State Nutrition Policy, and State Social Protection Policy.
Governor Alia emphasized the importance of laying a foundation for a brighter future in the state, focusing on education, healthcare, and digital economy.
The Governor expressed commitment to equipping citizens with the tools needed to succeed in a rapidly changing world.
With a focus on digital transformation and social protection, Gov. Alia highlighted the importance of creating opportunities and support systems for all members of the society.
The Governor thanked the Benue State House of Assembly and UNICEF for their support in bringing about positive change and lasting prosperity for the state.
It would be recalled that on Monday, the Benue House of Assembly had approved the 2025 Appropriation Bill, totaling N550,112 billion.
During the plenary session in Makurdi, Mr. Cephas Dyako, Chairman of the House Standing Committee on Appropriation, outlined that the projected revenue and expenditure are equal, representing a significant increase of N177,092 billion or 47.5% over the revised budget for 2024.
Dyako had detailed that the proposed recurrent expenditure stands at N175,412 billion, allocated for personnel costs at N80,013 billion, and other expenses at N95,398 billion.
Additionally, capital expenditure was set at N374,700 billion.
Despite previous resolutions against extra-budgetary expenditures, Dyako noted that some Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) continue to engage in such practices.
Another member, Mr. William Ortyom raised concerns regarding the allocation of N79 billion to the newly established Bureau of Special Projects and Infrastructure, calling for clarity on its mandate.
He also pointed out the lack of funding for the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and the Scholarship Board.
On his part, Mr. Douglas Akya urged swift approval of the budget, while the Clerk, Mr. John Hwande, read the appropriation bill for the third time.
Speaker, Benue State House of Assembly, Mr. Hyacinth Dajo emphasized the importance of timely budget submissions to allow adequate review by assembly members before approving the 2025 budget, comprising N175,412 billion for recurrent and N374,700 billion for capital expenditures, amounting to a total of N550,112 billion.
