Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, the governor of Benue, has announced the acquisition of an additional 100 buses to enhance the operations of the state transport company, Benue Links, in a bid to alleviate the transportation challenges faced in the state.
Speaking at a reception for members of the Conference of Benue Journalists (CBJ) in Makurdi, Mr. Alia expressed the government’s commitment to improving transportation services and revitalizing ailing companies within the state.
“In the area of transport, we have procured 100 buses for Benue Links to improve services and relieve the burden of transportation,” he stated.
Emphasizing his determination to attract new investments and revitalize dormant enterprises, Governor Alia expressed his appreciation for the media’s role in promoting and projecting the image and interests of the state government at both national and international levels.
“I have been informed of your efforts over the years and your modest contributions towards the actualization of a better Benue,” he acknowledged. “Challenges are indeed present in the process of developing and transforming a state like Benue, especially at this time. However, I am genuinely committed to the transformation of Benue, harnessing the untapped natural resources and the vibrant youthful population.”
Addressing the issue of salaries and pensions, the governor affirmed that the government consistently disburses payments on the 25th of every month to ease the livelihoods of citizens. He also highlighted the administration’s accomplishment in ensuring the 100% payment of gratuities to retirees, marking it as a significant milestone.
Furthermore, Governor Alia urged the media to utilize their expertise in countering misinformation and propaganda aimed at undermining his administration, calling for solidarity from the people of Benue and their friends in supporting the efforts to rebuild the state.
The state’s Commissioner for Power and Transportation, Mr. Omale Omale, disclosed that the newly acquired buses have been branded with the state transport company’s logo and are set to be handed over to the management before the yuletide, with the aim of facilitating transportation within and beyond the state.
“With these additional buses, we will have a total of about 800 vehicles in the fleet of the company to ease transportation,” he added, noting that the governor has sanctioned a reduction in transportation fares on all routes within the state to ensure affordability for all users.
In his remarks, the President of the Conference of Benue Journalists, Emmanuel Anule, commended the state government for the various projects initiated and urged Governor Alia to maintain the current momentum and continue the punctual payment of salaries to civil servants.
Mr. Anule also advocated for intensified efforts to address the security challenges in the state and the displacement of people from their ancestral homes.
It is evident that the government’s commitment to enhancing Benue Links’ operations with the addition of 100 buses is a significant step towards addressing the transportation needs of the state’s populace, as well as fostering economic development and growth.
