BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja
Federal Government has unveiled several projects aimed at tackling flooding and stimulating socio-economic development in Benue State.
The projects sited across the state include Katsina Ala–Takum, Katsina Ala–Calabar (Ushongo and Atihi), Old Makurdi–Wukari, Otukpo-Oshegbudu-Oweto, and the Makurdi-Otukpo-9th Mile-Enugu Roads.
Targeted at enhancing infrastructure and transportation as catalysts for national growth, the projects unveiled at the just concluded Media Tour are expected to address failures across the various alignments and improve connectivity.
At the rehabilitated Katsina Ala–Takum road, the Federal Controller of Works, Benue State, Engr. Mukaila Danladi disclosed that work has progressed significantly, reaching binder and sub-base levels, with preparations underway for the execution of hydraulic structures.
He identified key challenges encountered by the contractor of Messrs Gerawa Global Engineering (Nigeria) Limited as insecurity and operational constraints related to construction equipment, noting that the issues were addressed to sustain steady progress.
At Ushongo and Atihi communities, along the Katsina Ala–Calabar road, the Controller explained that a 100-metre line drain was constructed to mitigate persistent flooding that previously submerged the carriageway, causing severe washouts and restraining traffic.
He noted that the corridor remains a critical route for the movement of agricultural produce and mineral resources passing through key economic centers.
Providing professional validation on the projects, representatives of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) and the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) commended the Federal Government for the quality of work delivered, as well as the pace and quality of ongoing works.
They said that the level of work at the project sites reflected a strong commitment to engineering standards, safety, and long-term durability.
Chairman of the Benue State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Vincent Nyinongu, who represented the Minister of Works, Engr David Umahi commissioned the emergency and special intervention projects.
He confirmed the Federal Government’s resolve to prioritise infrastructure that directly impacts livelihoods by connecting people, goods, and services.
At Agasha town within Guma Local Government Area, flood mitigation and special repair works on the Old Makurdi–Wukari road were also commissioned, further underscoring the administration’s responsiveness to climate-related infrastructure challenges.
Another emergency work commissioned was the Flood Mitigation and Repairs at KM 19 (Ushongo) and KM 35 (Atihi) along the Katsina Ala - Calabar road, a vital economic corridor supporting the transportation of agricultural produce and solid minerals from Benue to other parts of the country.
The project involves extensive pavement works and drainage infrastructure designed to improve durability and ensure all-weather accessibility and mobility.
During the tour, the team also visited the ongoing dualisation of the Makurdi–Otukpo–9th Mile-Enugu road, a route that has endured years of neglect despite its national importance.
The ministry stated that the current administration prioritised the project due to its strategic relevance and the need to end decades of hardship experienced by motorists and communities on the corridor.
It emphasised that the extreme conditions previously observed on the road, characterised by hazardous failures and stationary articulated vehicles, necessitated the rehabilitation of the existing carriageway and construction of another carriageway.
Ongoing works on the corridor have gathered momentum, reflecting the administration’s renewed commitment to infrastructure delivery.
Giving further technical details on the project, the FCW disclosed that work commenced on 1 February, 2024, following the resolution of initial constraints, including security challenges, right-of-way acquisition, and relocation of utilities.
He confirmed that the Benue State Government has achieved 100 percent acquisition of the right of way, while relocation of utilities reached approximately 98 percent, enabling unhindered construction activities.
According to him, significant achievements were recorded with over 48 percent completion status, indicating that delivery remains on track.
Corroborating the progress, Engr. Tijani Olalekan, a representative of the contracting firms, China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) reaffirmed the company’s commitment to the timely execution and excellent completion of the contract.
"The pace of work reflects our dedication to meeting the project’s timelines. We have achieved substantial progress on binder and wearing courses, while hydraulic structures are being completed across multiple locations," he added.
Olalekan said that most of the challenges were effectively addressed, as the state government supported in facilitating right-of-way acquisition and utility relocation.
As a further demonstration of inter-governmental collaboration, the Federal Ministry of Works acknowledged the approval granted by the Benue State Government for the payment of compensation related to the Buruku bridge project.
While appreciating the gesture, the ministry hinted that such cooperation is essential for the seamless execution of infrastructure projects across the Federation.
At the site of ongoing work on the Buruku Bridge over River Kastina Ala, linking Benue and Taraba States, the Project Manager of Messrs Setraco (Nigeria) Limited was optimistic that with the payment of compensation, 'the work will gather a renewed momentum.'
The nationwide media tour is not only a platform for showcasing capability and accountability but also an opportunity to reinforce public confidence in the Federal Government’s commitment to delivering durable and impactful infrastructure.
Also, the successful completion and ongoing execution of the projects underscored a clear and consistent policy direction focused on national integration, economic growth, and improved quality of life for all.
This was contained in a statement bypthe Director of Information and Public Relations, Mohammed A. Ahmed in Abuja.
Comments
Post a Comment