…Initiates housing scheme for civil servants
The Benue State Governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, has disclosed government’s decision to reclaim encroached lands within the commissioners quarters in Makurdi.
To this end, the Governor has directed the Ministry of Works, the Office of the Attorney General, and other relevant authorities to take necessary action to ensure success.
Governor Alia gave the directive Wednesday in Makurdi after inspecting ongoing renovation works at the Commissioners’ Quarters.
Speaking with journalists shortly after the inspection exercise, the Governor expressed concern over unauthorized occupation of government land within the quarters emphasizing that such encroachments would not be tolerated.
He stressed the need to uphold social justice and proper land administration as according to him, individuals occupying such lands should vacate and seek legitimate allocations through appropriate government channels.
Speaking further, Governor Alia commended the contractor handling the renovation for delivering quality work.
The Governor who revealed that the state government is exploring additional development opportunities within the expansive premises, including the possibility of constructing more structures to maximize available space, also assured that the completed units would soon be occupied by top government functionaries.
Governor Alia further reiterated his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of civil servants through housing initiatives and disclosed that government has acquired additional property to support housing needs for workers, aimed at providing long-term security and encouraging productivity within the civil service.
Stressing the importance of forward planning, the Governor encouraged civil servants to take advantage of such initiatives to prepare for life after service, noting that access to housing could serve as a foundation for financial stability.
He also encouraged them to invest in agriculture, describing farming as a common and beneficial venture for many residents of the state.
Note that renovation has been completed on nine housing units so far, with work progressing steadily on others.
Recall that the commissioners quarters was seriously dilapidated and inhabitable for several years before the assumption of office by the Alia administration.
The Governor was accompanied on the inspection tour by the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Deborah Serumun Aber as well as the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Prof. Timothy Yangien and other key government functionaries.
