*Principal Special Assistant to the Governor on Media, Publicity and Strategic Communications*

The Benue State 2024 Appropriation Bill approved by the State House of Assembly was signed into law by Governor Hyacinth Alia on December 29, 2023.

The budget has a provision of N225.727 billion, and is anchored on job creation, addressing infrastructure deficit and alleviating poverty in a state that had gone through years of stagnation occasioned by insecurity and poor governance.

According to the governor, the budget is in conformity with his campaign on 'Strategic Development for a Greater Benue'.

It is the first budget wholly articulated by the government that came into office on May 29, 2023, and interestingly, it plans to spend 51.1% of the total 2024 budget on capital projects that would leave positive marks on the lives of the people of Benue State.

In this respect, more than N115.24 billion will be invested significantly in the construction and maintenance of roads, bridges, and other vital infrastructure to connect communities for greater economic growth and development.

So far, the government urban renewal project has taken off in Makurdi, where 16 roads are being reconstructed to ease movement and boost the economy.

The focus on road infrastructure is anchored on the governor's conviction that well-connected communities are empowered communities, as it would "enhance accessibility, connectivity, and overall livability for our citizens".

Unemployment remains a major challenge in all aspects of life in the state, and the government has made adequate provision in the budget to significantly reduce the level of unemployment and empower young people to be employers of labour.

"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.

"Whether through public works projects, support for small and medium-sized enterprises, agriculture or investments in emerging industries, in which we are committed to creating a conducive environment for job growth," Alia further said.

It is instructive to mention that the administration has since commenced ICT training for 10,000 youth as part the government job creation scheme. Invariably, the beneficiaries will be assisted in setting up businesses and employ others.

The government has also articulated comprehensive approach to poverty reduction by focusing on education, healthcare, and social welfare programmes.

Without doubt, poverty alleviation remains at the forefront of the government agenda, and Governor Alia aptly captured that by saying that the budget will invest in the well-being of the people so as break the cycle of poverty, thus creating a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Part of the investment being made by the government in the welfare of the people is the provision of shelter for the relocation of the more than 1.5 million Internally Displaced Persons across the state.

For the state workforce, the government will spend N110.511 billion, representing 48.9% of the total budget as recurrent expenditure, which include funds for salaries, pensions and other emoluments, as well as general administration.

This will no doubt inspire the state civil service, which is the engine room of the government to assiduously work towards ensuring the full implementation of the people-centered budget.

In spite of the deficit of N34.691 billion, about 15.3%, the 2024 budget represents a clear and unwavering commitment of the government to the well-being of the people and the sustained growth of the state.

"It is a roadmap that charts the course for a future where our communities thrive, our economy flourishes, and our citizens enjoy an improved quality of life," Alia assured the people of Benue.

To ensure the full implementation of the budget, the governor solicited the support of all citizens of the state, so that together, the government will deliver on its
commitment to the welfare of the citizens and the progress of the state.

"As we embark on the implementation of this budget, let us do so with a sense of purpose and dedication.

"Let us work hand in hand to turn these plans into tangible results that benefit every corner of our state.

"Together, we can build a future that is characterised by prosperity, inclusivity, and shared success.