Makurdi, the Benue state capital witnessed a major infrastructural milestone today, Thursday as demolition commenced for the construction of the long-awaited Wurukum flyover, following Governor Hyacinth Alia’s approval of compensations for affected structures. The development marks the official start of work on one of the city’s most strategic urban projects.
Officials who supervised the demolition included Engr. Mlumun Ikpaahindi, Technical Adviser to the Governor on Infrastructure, site Engineer, Engineer Aondoakaa Akpaiyo, former commissioner for work, housing and urban development, Hon. Tiza Imojime, representatives from the Benue State Ministry of Works; members of the Benue State Urban Development Board; and contractors from China Harbour Engineering Company.
During the exercise, affected market women and property owners were urged to exercise patience as arrangements are being made to relocate them to a befitting permanent site.
“We are committed to ensuring that everyone displaced by this project is properly compensated and accommodated. A site will be designated for the market women to continue their businesses without disruption,” Engr. Ikpaahindi assured the stakeholders on site.
The governor’s decision comes after sustained advocacy for a flyover at the Wurukum Roundabout to ease traffic congestion along the Lafia-Makurdi-Ninth Mile Road corridor. The road project, initially approved by the Minister of Works in February 2024, received further approval after the federal authorities endorsed the inclusion of the flyover component.
The 600-metre flyover, stretching from the River Benue Bridge to Atorough Tyough Plaza, is designed to decongest Wurukum, North Bank, Otukpo Road, and routes leading to the eastern parts of the country. Officials confirm that all agreements on compensations have been finalized, and property owners affected by the project have been duly satisfied.
Motorists are advised to expect some traffic delays along the route during construction. Alternate routes and adequate signage will be provided to minimize disruption, while contractors have been instructed to maintain constant public communication through radio, social media, and other channels.
Places marked for demolition include: rice mill village, motor parks around the bridge and Wurukum roundabout, tipper garage, abattoir, immigration and command offices etc
The project brings together multiple stakeholders, including the Federal Ministry of Works, Benue State Ministry of Works, Benue State Urban Development Board, China Harbour Engineering Company as contractor, E. A. Iordaa as independent estate valuers, and the Governor’s Technical Adviser on Infrastructure.
Today’s developments signal a new era for Makurdi, as the city moves decisively towards modern infrastructure, improved traffic management, and sustainable urban development.
By Solo Dzuah.
