The Benue State Government has expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work on the ongoing dualization of the 9th Mile (Enugu)–Otukpo–Makurdi road, describing the project as vital to the state’s economic growth and regional connectivity.
Deputy Governor, Sam Ode, gave the commendation during an inspection tour of the project at the Otukpo axis on Friday. The road forms Phase II of the Keffi–Akwanga–Lafia–Makurdi–9th Mile expressway dualization, following the completion of Phase I in April 2024.
Ode praised the contractor, China Harbour Engineering Company Limited (CHEC), for maintaining steady progress on the project, describing the firm as a reliable and experienced construction company. He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ensuring continuity of the project and lauded the Minister of Works, David Umahi, for his close supervision and commitment to timely delivery of key infrastructure nationwide.
According to the deputy governor, a new federal policy requires state governments to collaborate with the Federal Government on road projects by handling compensation and relocation of utilities. He disclosed that the Benue State Government has so far paid more than ₦4.6 billion as compensation to affected communities, covering demolished structures and the relocation of public utilities from Wurukum Roundabout in Makurdi to Orokam, at the boundary with Enugu State.
He explained that special attention was given to the Otukpo section of the road due to years of neglect and hardship faced by residents. Ode said the Minister of Works directed the contractor to prioritize the area, adding that assurances have been given that the Otukpo corridor will be completed before June this year.
The deputy governor noted that challenges related to the relocation of power lines and water pipelines are being addressed and expressed confidence that outstanding issues would be resolved within weeks to prevent delays.
Describing the road as a major economic lifeline, particularly for the Idoma Nation, Ode said it serves as an important north–south transport corridor. He stressed that improved road infrastructure would boost agricultural productivity, enhance access to markets, and stimulate economic activities across the state.
On his part, CHEC’s Head of Engineering, Mr Dong, said subgrade work had been completed on several sections of the road, adding that stone base and pavement works would commence shortly.
According to him, asphalt laying on one side of the road is expected to be completed before March, subject to the timely relocation of utility installations along the corridor.
He said the company was working closely with relevant authorities to resolve outstanding challenges, including the relocation of power lines and water pipelines, to ensure uninterrupted construction.
Also speaking, the Federal Controller of Works in Benue State, Engineer Munkaila Danladi, said the Makurdi–9th Mile (Enugu) road covers approximately 250 kilometres, with about 178 kilometres passing through Benue State, making it the longest stretch.
Danladi revealed that construction has progressed significantly, with about 120 kilometres completed up to binder course level and roughly 50 kilometres reaching the wearing course stage. He added that earthworks and several hydraulic structures are still ongoing along the route.
He pointed to major infrastructure such as the flyover bridge at Chainage 00 as evidence of the level of work being carried out, assuring that the dual carriageway through the Otukpo corridor is expected to be completed by June.
The controller emphasized that strict quality control measures are in place, noting that the Minister of Works does not tolerate substandard execution. He explained that multiple consultants, supported by ministry engineers, supervise each section of the project, while materials are routinely tested in laboratories to ensure compliance with specifications.
Danladi also commended host communities for their cooperation, saying residents have shown strong support for the project due to its economic importance. In some areas, he noted, community members vacated affected locations even before compensation payments were finalized.
He added that the project has promoted local content and skills transfer, with CHEC engaging Nigerian engineers and artisans, using locally sourced materials, and sharing technical expertise with local professionals.
The project is jointly funded by the China Export and Import (EXIM) Bank and the Federal Government of Nigeria.
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