The Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, has signed the 2025 appropriation bill into law.

The budget, tagged Human Capital Development, Food Security and the Digital Economy, is estimated to be N550,112,988,930.45.

The signing, which coincided with the launching of the state’s much-anticipated 10-year Development Plan as well as the launch of the State Nutrition Policy, and the State Social Protection Policy, was performed at the Benue State Government House, Makurdi, on Monday.

According to Alia, the signing into Law of the 2025 budget, the formal launch of the 10-year Development Plan and other policies mark the beginning of a new chapter in Benue’s story.

He said his administration is 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 the state.

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

He added that his government was 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 Digital Economy, Alia described it as the future, saying he was 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 enhanced, jobs created, and openings for new opportunities,” he said.

On the Nutritional Policy, the governor said the budget addresses the growing challenges of malnutrition, obesity, and diet-related diseases, adding that the policy is committed to ensuring that Bee citizens, especially the children have access to nutritious, affordable, and safe food.

The governor further disclosed that the launch of the Social Protection Policy signified 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, & job training opportunities, insisting it is a testament to the resolve of his government to protect every citizen, regardless.

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.