Flood Mitigation, Road Expansion, and Dualisation Projects Transform Benue Infrastructure
By Joy Onu
The Federal Ministry of Works has carried out a high-profile media tour and commissioned emergency and special intervention projects across Benue State, highlighting significant progress in upgrading critical road infrastructure under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
In a press release to journalists by Mohammed A. Ahmed, Director, Information and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Works, the Ministry provided details on interventions along key road networks, including the Katsina Ala–Takum, Katsina Ala–Calabar (Ushongo and Atihi), Old Makurdi–Wukari, Otukpo–Oshegbudu–Oweto, and the Makurdi–Otukpo–9th Mile–Enugu Roads. The projects aim to address long-standing neglect, enhance connectivity, and stimulate economic activity in local communities.
At the Katsina Ala–Takum Road, Federal Controller of Works for Benue State, Engr. Mukaila Danladi, reported that construction has progressed to the binder and sub-base levels, with hydraulic structures being prepared. He acknowledged initial challenges, including security concerns and operational constraints, but emphasized that these have been effectively addressed to maintain steady progress.
Along the Katsina Ala–Calabar Road, emergency repairs at Ushongo and Atihi communities included the construction of a 100-metre line drain to prevent recurrent flooding that previously washed away portions of the carriageway. The corridor continues to serve as a vital route for transporting agricultural produce and mineral resources, connecting key economic hubs within the state.
Representatives from the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) and the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) visited the sites to validate completed and ongoing works. They commended the projects for their adherence to engineering standards, safety, and long-term durability, noting that the interventions demonstrate professional excellence.
Comrade Vincent Nyinongu, Chairman of the Benue State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), formally commissioned the projects on behalf of the Honourable Minister of Works, Senator Engr. David Umahi, CON, FNSE, FNATE. He highlighted the Federal Government’s commitment to infrastructure that directly benefits citizens by connecting people, goods, and services.
In Agasha town, Guma Local Government Area, flood mitigation and emergency repairs on the Old Makurdi–Wukari Road were inaugurated, reflecting the administration’s responsiveness to climate-related challenges that had disrupted movement and trade along the corridor.
Additional emergency works at KM 19 (Ushongo) and KM 35 (Atihi) on the Katsina Ala–Calabar Road were commissioned to ensure all-weather accessibility along this economically strategic route, reinforcing the government’s focus on sustainable mobility for communities and businesses alike.
The dualisation of the Makurdi–Otukpo–9th Mile–Enugu Road, a nationally significant corridor long neglected, was also showcased. Since work commenced on 1 February 2024, the project has overcome hurdles including right-of-way acquisition, utility relocation, and security concerns. The Benue State Government has completed 100% of the right-of-way, with 98% of utilities relocated, enabling over 48% of construction to be completed as scheduled.
China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC), the contractor handling the dualisation, confirmed substantial progress on binder and wearing courses, along with ongoing hydraulic works at multiple locations, assuring timely project delivery.
The Buruku Bridge project, linking Benue and Taraba States, was highlighted during the tour. With the Benue State Government’s approval of compensation payments, construction is set to accelerate. Project Manager Messrs Setraco (Nigeria) Limited expressed optimism that the bridge works would gather renewed momentum.
The nationwide media tour provides a platform for the Federal Ministry of Works to demonstrate transparency, accountability, and measurable progress, reinforcing public confidence in government-led infrastructure initiatives. The completion of emergency works and steady advancement on ongoing projects underscore a consistent policy focus on national integration, economic growth, and enhanced quality of life for Nigerians.
