Benue State Government (BNSG) has approved the release of about N149.5 billion for the construction, rehabilitation and completion of various projects across the state.
Key among the projects is the extension and dualization of the Wurukum – Air Force base road (Gboko road), that includes the construction of a 5-span bridge at River Mu and the upgrade of the Mbawuar – Bako-Negher and Spur – Mbaakon road project which will gulp over N68.3 billion and about N74 billion respectively.
The approval was made by the State Executive Council (SEC) aimed at transforming the state, giving the state capital a facelift as well as improving the economy and lives of the people of the state according to Kula Tersoo, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Hyacinth Alia in a statement released to newsmen in Makurdi this weekend.
Other projects, which he said were approved during the Council meeting include the completion of payment for the rehabilitation and restoration of the 10 year old abandoned projects at Otobi/Otukpo and Katsina-Ala Water works which got the approval of over N1.5 billion.
Kula said, “It (SEC) approved the immediate payment of N1,569,583,932.17 to CGC, a Chinese company that constructed the Otobi/Otukpo and Katsina-Ala Water Works about 10 years ago.
The council also directed the Ministry of Water Resources, Environment, and Climate Change to invite CGC to commence the rehabilitation of the facility and restore water supply in Otobi, Otukpo, and their environs.
“The council also approved several other key projects, including the extension and dualization of the Wurukum-Air Force base road, the upgrade of the Mbawuar to Bako-Negher and Spur to Mbaakon road, the rehabilitation and upgrade of the Deputy Governor’s lodge, and the reconstruction of the Assembly complex and clinic.
“The extension and dualization of the Wurukum-Air Force base road, which was approved at a cost of N68,329,287,647.57, is expected to improve transportation and boost economic activities in the area.
“The project, which will be handled by M/S Bahaus Global Investment Nigeria Ltd., includes the construction of a 5-span bridge at Mu.
“The upgrade of the Mbawuar to Bako-Negher and Spur to Mbaakon Road, which was approved at a cost of ₦73,920,604,234.52, will improve road safety and reduce travel time for commuters.
The project will (also) be handled by M/S Bahaus Global Investment Nig Ltd.”
Others are “The rehabilitation and upgrade of the Deputy Governor’s Lodge, which was approved at a cost of N1,136,469,250.83, will provide a conducive environment for the deputy governor to perform his duties. The project will be handled by Welltime Limited.
“The reconstruction of the Assembly Complex and Clinic, which was approved at a cost of N4,593,087,831.76, will provide a modern and functional complex for the state assembly and a clinic for the benefit of lawmakers and staff. The project is to be controlled by Gerewa Global Engineering Ltd”, Kula stated.
Relatedly, the CPS said that the state executive council received a letter of approval from the Federal Government for the establishment of an infectious disease control centre at Vandeikya, in Vandeikya local government area of the state, following a request by Governor Hyacinth Alia, who had earlier expressed concern over cases of infectious diseases in the state.
