FIC Report (Benue State) – Benue State is witnessing an unprecedented wave of infrastructural transformation under the leadership of His Excellency, Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia. Through a strategic blend of rural-urban development initiatives, the administration is rapidly opening up communities, boosting economic activities, and enhancing the overall well-being of residents.
Bridget Tikyaa, Principal Special Assistant to the Governor on Media, Publicity, and Communications Strategy, has highlighted the monumental achievements of Governor Alia’s administration, particularly in road construction, urban renewal, and erosion control.
The establishment of the Bureau for Special Projects and Infrastructure has been instrumental in coordinating these landmark projects. The state government has commenced the process of connecting all local governments through rural road networks to enhance economic activities across the state. These projects are being executed in conjunction with affected local government councils on a 60-40 percent funding ratio.
To this end, the government has awarded contracts for major rural road networks cutting across multiple local government areas, including Guma, Gwer East, Gwer West, Kwande, Agatu, Ado, Vandeikya, Konshisha, Oju, Gboko, and Ushongo. Some of the key road projects include:
- Mbawuar Sec – Bako – Naa Road (20km) with a 14km Spur to Mede-Mbaakon
- Rehabilitation of Wurukum – Air Force Base – Mu Road (13km)
- Daudu – Gbajimba Road (47km)
- Manyam – Unongo – Nambe Road (23km)
- Branch Atser – Korinya – Wuese Road
- Adikpo – Koti – Yough – Vandeikya Road with a Spur to Tse Mker
Several of these roads have completion deadlines ranging from four to 24 months, and work is progressing at an impressive pace, with some already completed.
Urban Renewal and Metropolitan Road Development
Governor Alia’s administration has also embarked on a massive urban renewal drive, expanding and rehabilitating roads while also opening waterways to mitigate flooding. According to Professor Gabriel Akpen, Director General of the Bureau for Special Projects and Infrastructure, 21 roads are currently under construction in Makurdi, with work also ongoing in other major towns.
These include:
- Hanti Hotel – Joyce Hotel – Word Aflame Road
- Melody to George Akume Way
- Villa Suite – JAMB Office with Spurs to Rahama Hospital & IORNENGEN LIGOM
- Biem Anya Street with Spurs to Unique and Bishop
- Father Hunter – Achusa – Welfare Quarters Road
- High-Level Roundabout Interchange (Underpass) in Makurdi
- Gyado Junction Interchange (Underpass) in Gboko
In addition, the Ministry of Works is overseeing the rehabilitation of 16 metropolitan roads, which are 95% completed, covering a total length of 15.93km.
Strategic Government Projects and Flood Control
Governor Alia’s administration is not only focused on roads but is also investing in critical state infrastructure, including:
- Construction of a New Governor’s Office
- Renovation of the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation Office in Makurdi
- Benue State Secretariat Refurbishment
- Renovation of Commissioners’ Quarters
- Development of the International Conference Centre and the Benue Fashion Hub
To address flooding and erosion, the government has initiated the construction and rehabilitation of drainage systems in Wurukum Market, North Bank, and Federal Low-cost Housing areas. This project, being handled by TRIACTA Nig. Ltd, includes the construction of 6.4km of roads and two water channels totaling 2.60km.
Governor Alia: A Legacy of Impactful Leadership
Governor Alia’s vision is clear: a Benue State with modern, efficient infrastructure that supports economic growth and improves the lives of its people. From rural farmers to urban entrepreneurs, every resident will benefit from these transformative projects.
“Governor Alia has proven that good governance is about action, not just promises. His infrastructural strides are setting a new benchmark for development in Benue State,” Bridget Tikyaa affirmed.
Signed:
Irene Iveren Onehi
Head, Federal Information Center, Makurdi
