Benue Governor Flags Off Construction of Multi-Lane Flyover at Wurukum Roundabout

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, on Saturday, officially flagged off the construction of a multi-lane flyover at the popular Wurukum Roundabout in Makurdi. The ceremony, which drew a large crowd of residents and stakeholders, marked a significant milestone in the state’s infrastructure development drive.

The event came shortly after the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, arrived in Benue as part of a nationwide tour to assess critical infrastructure needs, focusing particularly on road networks and urban renewal projects across different states.

A Long-Awaited Project for Makurdi

Akahi News gathered that the Wurukum flyover project follows the recent demolition of the iconic Food Basket monument that had long stood at the intersection. The state government explained that the demolition was necessary to pave the way for a modern, multi-lane flyover designed to ease traffic congestion and transform the capital’s outlook.

Addressing the audience at the flag-off ceremony, Governor Alia described the project as a landmark investment poised to decongest Makurdi’s busiest traffic point while boosting commercial activities and improving the aesthetics of the state capital.

“We are laying the foundation for a modern Makurdi, one that reflects the aspirations of our people and our determination to open up Benue for greater economic opportunities,” the governor said.

Federal Commitment to Infrastructure Renewal

In his remarks, Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, commended the Benue State Government for its proactive collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Works. He noted that the Wurukum flyover is part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at modernising road infrastructure to drive national development.

“The Federal Government is determined to deliver quality road projects that will open up economic corridors across the country. This flyover is one of many projects we are supporting to ensure safe, efficient, and modern transport systems for all Nigerians,” Umahi stated.

He assured residents of Benue that the federal government would closely monitor the project to ensure timely completion and adherence to international construction standards.

Economic and Social Impact

Experts say the Wurukum flyover will not only reduce travel time within Makurdi but also attract investment by easing the movement of goods and services. The project is expected to generate jobs during and after construction, providing economic opportunities for local artisans, traders, and transport operators.

Community leaders who attended the ceremony expressed optimism that the project would change the face of the capital city and reduce the perennial gridlock at Wurukum Roundabout.

Governor Alia reiterated his administration’s commitment to partnerships that would fast-track development across the state. He noted that projects like the Wurukum flyover would complement other urban renewal efforts, ultimately transforming Makurdi into a modern city befitting its status as the heart of the Food Basket of the Nation.

The governor assured residents that more road and housing projects were underway, with support from both the state and federal governments.

Akahi News learnt that construction work on the flyover will begin immediately, with the project expected to be completed within the stipulated timeline to minimise disruption to traffic and economic activities in the state capital.

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