Governor of Benue State, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, and Kogi State governor-elect, Ahmed Ododo, have described 2024 as a year of renewed hopes for Nigerian masses. 
  
In his New Year message in Makurdi, yesterday, Alia reaffirmed his commitment to take care of workers’ welfare as well as security of life and property as some of the cardinal objectives of his government.   He also re-assured of his commitment to improve infrastructure in the state and to reform the local council system.
  
“As we bid farewell to 2023 and joyfully usher in the promising year of 2024, I address you as your governor to express my heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering support and trust you have bestowed upon our administration in the past six months. It is with immense pride and deep humility that I address you today, with renewed hope for the achievements yet to come.
  
“First, let me take this opportunity to extend my sincere appreciation to all the people of Benue for standing strong with us, through the highs and lows of our journey. Your unwavering support has been the bedrock upon which we have built our dreams for a better future. Your dedication and resilience have propelled us forward in our quest to make Benue state a great and prosperous place for us all,” he said. 
  
While expressing utmost optimism for the incredible possibilities that 2024 holds for all, he urged citizens to embrace the new year with renewed hope, determination, and courage to face the challenges that lie ahead. 
  
In his New Year message, yesterday, Ododo said President Bola Tinubu’s decision to remove petrol subsidy was in the interest of the country’s economy, applauding the President for his efforts at fixing the refineries. 
  
He said: “We have gone through the sacrifice period of the oil subsidy removal. From the second quarter of 2024, we will bounce back stronger, and our economy will be unstoppable from that point. 
 
 “I call on Nigerians and Kogites to continue to give total support to the present administration, as it is working hard to improve the living standards of the citizenry.”