Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, on Friday, December 29, 2023, signed the 2024 Appropriation Bill into law. The bill, totalling N225,727,395,206.97, aims to drive infrastructural development, job creation, and poverty alleviation in the state.
In his address, Governor Alia described the 2024 budget as the “Budget of Infrastructural Development, Job Creation, and Poverty Alleviation.” He said that it draws its essence from the state’s policy document titled “A Strategic Development Plan for a Greater Benue.”
He added that the budget figure follows revisions from the Benue State House of Assembly.
Breaking down the total 2024 budget, he said, “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.”
Regarding the deficit financing of this budget, he noted, “The deficit stands at N34,691,000,000, representing 15.3% of the total 2024 budget.”
Governor Alia said, “This budget reflects a resolute commitment to the well-being of our people and the sustained growth of our great state. It outlines a path toward a future where our communities thrive, our economy flourishes, and our citizens enjoy an enhanced quality of life.”
Noting 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. We aim to ensure the connectivity and empowerment of our communities.
“In doing so, we are dedicated to improving accessibility, connectivity, and overall living standards for our citizens. Furthermore, this budget offers hope to job seekers and aspiring entrepreneurs, recognizing the importance of job creation in fostering a dynamic and resilient economy.”
Closing his statement, he expressed gratitude to the legislators for their tireless efforts in ensuring the passage of the budget, stressing their shared commitment to the welfare of citizens and the progress of the state.
