Benue State Government Commends Steady Progress on Makurdi–Otukpo–Enugu Road Project

The Benue State Government has expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work on the ongoing dualisation of the Makurdi–Otukpo–Enugu Road, describing the project as a vital economic and strategic transport corridor linking the North Central region to the South East. The road, which has suffered years of neglect and deterioration, is widely regarded as a lifeline for agricultural trade, commerce, and mobility across Benue State and neighbouring regions.

The Deputy Governor of Benue State, Barrister Sam Ode, made the commendation during an inspection tour of the project along the Otukpo corridor. He praised the contractor, China Harbour Engineering Company Limited (CHEC), referring to the firm as a reputable frontline construction company with a proven track record of delivering large-scale infrastructure projects. According to Ode, the visible progress on the road is a clear indication that the project is finally receiving the seriousness it deserves after decades of abandonment.

He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, for sustaining the project, noting that the Makurdi–Otukpo–Enugu Road forms Phase II of the Keffi–Akwanga–Lafia–Makurdi–9th Mile Expressway dualisation. Ode described the road as a critical economic artery, particularly for the Idoma Nation and the wider Benue population, stressing that its completion would significantly ease movement, reduce travel time, and enhance economic activities.

The Deputy Governor explained that under a new federal policy, state governments are now required to partner with the Federal Government on major road projects. In line with this arrangement, he said the Benue State Government has taken responsibility for compensation and the relocation of utilities along the portion of the road within the state. According to him, the state has so far paid over ₦4.6 billion as compensation to affected communities, covering demolished structures and the relocation of public utilities from Wurukum Roundabout in Makurdi to Orokam, the boundary town with Enugu State.

Ode noted that special attention had been given to the Otukpo township section of the road due to the prolonged suffering of residents caused by years of abandonment. He disclosed that following appeals by the state government and local stakeholders, the Minister of Works directed CHEC to prioritise the Otukpo stretch. He added that assurances had been given that this section would be completed before June this year, bringing long-awaited relief to commuters and residents.

Providing technical updates, CHEC’s Head of Engineering, Mr. Li Dong, revealed that subgrade work had been completed on several sections of the road. He stated that stone base and pavement works would commence shortly, while asphalt laying on one side of the dual carriageway is expected to be completed before March, subject to the timely relocation of utility installations. Li Dong explained that the company is working closely with relevant authorities to resolve outstanding challenges such as the relocation of power lines and water pipelines, in order to avoid disruptions to construction activities.

Also speaking during the inspection, the Federal Controller of Works in Benue State, Engr. Munkaila Danladi, disclosed that the Makurdi–9th Mile (Enugu) Road spans approximately 250 kilometres, with Benue State accounting for the longest stretch of about 178 kilometres. He said that about 120 kilometres of the road had already been completed up to the binder course level, while roughly 50 kilometres had reached the wearing course stage. According to him, earthworks and the construction of several hydraulic structures are ongoing across different sections of the project.

Danladi highlighted major infrastructure elements such as the flyover bridge at Chainage, describing them as evidence of the renewed momentum on the project. He assured that by June, the dual carriageway within the Otukpo corridor should be substantially completed. He further stressed that quality assurance remains a top priority, noting that the Minister of Works does not tolerate substandard construction. To ensure compliance with specifications, the project is supervised by multiple consultants alongside ministry engineers, with routine laboratory testing of construction materials.

He also commended host communities for their cooperation, noting that the economic importance of the road had encouraged some residents to vacate affected areas even before compensation payments were concluded. According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the project is jointly financed by the China Export and Import (EXIM) Bank and the Federal Government of Nigeria.

When completed, the Makurdi–Otukpo–Enugu Road is expected to boost agricultural trade, attract investment, reduce travel time, and significantly enhance socio-economic activities across Benue State, the South East, and other neighbouring regions.