From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
Benue State Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia has approved an elongated two-week Christmas holiday for civil servants in the state.
Governor Alia made the announcement on Tuesday, December 24, 2024, during a Christmas broadcast at the Government House, Makurdi.
He said:
“As we mark the joy of the season of Christmas and the dawn of the new year 2025, I extend my heartfelt gratitude and best wishes to the people of our dear state.
“Christmas is a time of reflection, thanksgiving, and family bonding—a season when we celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ and Saviour, whose life and teachings inspire us to uphold the values of love, unity, and service to humanity.
“I recognise the tremendous efforts of the Benue workforce in the implementation of our programmes and projects for the progress and prosperity of our state.
“Your dedication and commitment to duty have been very instrumental in driving our collective agenda for development.
“In the spirit of the yuletide and in concurrence with the Benue State Executive Council, I am pleased to announce an elongated Christmas and New Year holiday for the workforce.”
He stated that the holiday period will commence on Tuesday, December 24, 2024, and end on Monday, January 6, 2025.
The governor noted that the decision underscores his administration’s commitment to supporting the well-being of the state workforce, allowing them to enjoy the yuletide season with their loved ones. He also urged them to use the holiday period to attend to their agricultural engagements.
Governor Alia emphasised that essential services are not to be disrupted during the holiday and directed agencies providing such services to make in-house arrangements with their staff to ensure continued operations.
“These essential services include financial institutions, security agencies, hospitals, the water board, fire service, telecommunication companies, electricity, energy providers, among others.”
He added:
“As we celebrate the blessings of Christmas in anticipation of the promises of a prosperous 2025, I encourage everyone to imbibe the spirit of unity, love, and peace. Let us remain steadfast in our collective efforts to build a better and greater Benue State.”
Governor Alia wished all the people of Benue, as well as tourists and visitors, a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year, praying that the season brings abundant joy, renewed hope, and divine blessings to all.