Thursday, June 13th, 2024
Governor Hyacinth Alia reiterated his dedication to building robust systems and institutions to foster development in Benue State during the Democracy Day celebration on June 12th, 2024, at IBB Square, Makurdi.
Addressing a large crowd, Governor Alia detailed his administration’s accomplishments over the past year. Acknowledging the trust placed in him by the people of Benue, he emphasized his commitment to fulfilling his social contract with them, even at personal sacrifice.
He expressed gratitude to his team for their efforts in striving for a better Benue and thanked the people of the state for their support and confidence in his leadership.
Governor Alia highlighted achievements under his administration's 7-point agenda, including infrastructural development, enhanced agricultural production, timely payment of salaries and pensions, and economic growth.
On infrastructure, the Governor noted the award of 51 road projects in one year, including underpasses in Makurdi, Gboko, and Otukpo. His administration also renovated the State Secretariat, reconstructed the Benue State House of Assembly Complex, and remodeled the Assembly Clinic.
In healthcare, he mentioned the overhaul of the Benue State University Teaching Hospital, the employment of 500 new staff, the reintroduction of the Bond Scheme for medical students, and the commencement of free clinical services at the Muhammadu Buhari Mother and Child Hospital.
In agriculture, Governor Alia reported significant economic progress, highlighting the procurement of 100 trucks of fertilizer distributed at subsidized rates, counterpart funding for IFAD’s Value Chain Development Programme, the distribution of 33 new tractors, and a 380 million Naira fund for climate-smart agricultural activities under the ACReSAL program. Plans are also underway to dredge the River Benue to enhance agricultural activities.
In education, the Governor pointed to the registration of WAEC, NECO, and NABTEB examinations for 2024, the establishment of the Benue State Education Quality Assurance Agency (BEQA), and its effective monitoring and improvement of school standards.
Regarding the economy, Governor Alia discussed efforts to tackle illegal mining, revitalize government assets such as the Benue Investment and Property Company and Benue Links Transport Company, and plans to revive state-owned industries like Benue Breweries and Taraku Oil Mills to create jobs and boost revenue.
On security, he emphasized efforts to resettle displaced persons, collaborating with the Federal Government and security agencies to ensure safety in Benue.
Earlier, Governor Alia, accompanied by his deputy, State Executive Council members, and other dignitaries, participated in the 2024 Democracy Solidarity Walk from the Benue State Government House to IBB Square. The event, organized by the National Democracy Stakeholders Group (NDSG), celebrated the essence and enduring importance of democracy.
Sir Tersoo Kula, MNIPR, Chief Press Secretary
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