The Benue State Executive Council, led by Governor Hyacinth Alia, has approved ₦149.5 billion for various infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing economic growth and improving the standard of living for residents.
In a statement released on Friday in Makurdi, the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, confirmed the approval, highlighting that the funds will be used for critical projects, including road construction, water supply restoration, and government facility upgrades.
Among the key decisions, the council authorized an immediate payment of ₦1.5 billion to CGC, the Chinese firm that constructed the Otobi/Otukpo and Katsina-Ala Water Works over a decade ago.
The Ministry of Water Resources, Environment, and Climate Change has been tasked with engaging the company to rehabilitate the facility and reinstate water supply to Otobi, Otukpo, and nearby areas.
The council also approved major road expansion projects, including the extension and dualization of the Wurukum-Airforce Base Road and the upgrade of the Mbawuar to Bako-Negher and Spur to Mbaakon Road.
Additionally, a five-span bridge at Mu will be constructed.
The dualization of the Wurukum-Airforce Base Road, estimated at ₦68.3 billion, is expected to enhance connectivity and stimulate economic activity, while the ₦73.9 billion upgrade of the Mbawuar to Bako-Negher and Spur to Mbaakon Road aims to improve road safety and ease transportation.
M/S Bahaus Global Investment Nigeria Limited has been assigned to handle these road projects.
Other notable projects include the ₦1.1 billion renovation of the Deputy Governor’s Lodge to provide a more functional workspace and the ₦4.5 billion reconstruction of the Assembly Complex and Clinic, which will offer modern facilities for legislators and government staff.
The reconstruction project will be overseen by Gerewa Global Engineering LTD.
Additionally, the state government has received federal approval for the establishment of an Infectious Disease Control Centre in Vandeikya Local Government Area.
This approval comes in response to Governor Alia’s request, following concerns over the rising cases of infectious diseases in the state.