Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has handed civil servants a unique Christmas gift: a two-week holiday to celebrate Christmas and New Year.
The announcement came during a press briefing at the Government House in Makurdi, where the governor emphasized the importance of the festive season as a time for reflection, unity, and agricultural development. The holiday, which began on December 24, will run until January 6, 2025, giving workers a rare opportunity to unwind and reconnect with loved ones.
“This holiday is for you to spend quality time with your families, celebrate the season, and contribute to our collective agricultural goals,” Governor Alia declared.
While granting the generous leave, the governor seized the moment to address one of the state’s pressing concerns: food security. He encouraged civil servants to dedicate part of the break to farming activities, urging them to embrace agriculture as a crucial driver of Benue’s economy.
“I urge you to seize the opportunity of this long holiday to attend to your agricultural pursuits by engaging in farming activities so that there will be an abundance of food in the state,” Governor Alia stated.
Known as the “Food Basket of the Nation,” Benue State has a reputation for its agricultural produce. However, challenges like climate change, insecurity, and dwindling interest in farming have strained the state’s agricultural output in recent years. Governor Alia’s appeal aims to rekindle interest in agriculture and ensure food sufficiency.
To ease concerns about essential services during the break, the governor reassured residents that critical sectors such as banking, energy provision, and security would remain operational.
“Essential services will continue uninterrupted. Security agencies, energy providers, and banks will be fully functional to cater to your needs throughout the holiday,” he noted.
This reassurance comes at a time when security and access to essential services are top priorities for many Nigerians, especially during festive periods.
Governor Alia also used the occasion to emphasize the importance of unity and peace among the people of Benue State, particularly during a season traditionally marked by communal celebrations.
“Let us embrace the spirit of love, peace, and unity as we celebrate. Together, we can build a better future for Benue State,” he said.
The governor’s call for harmony aligns with ongoing efforts to address communal tensions in the state. Over the years, Benue has faced challenges ranging from herdsmen attacks to intercommunal conflicts, threatening the peace and stability of the region.
Workers React to the Gesture
Civil servants in the state have expressed mixed reactions to the announcement. For many, the extended break is a welcome relief, providing an opportunity to unwind and celebrate without the pressures of work.
The two-week holiday comes at a time when Nigerians across the country are grappling with economic challenges, including inflation and high fuel prices. Many families have scaled back their celebrations, focusing instead on meeting basic needs.
