Benue: Katsina-Ala–Takum road project will strengthen security, spur economic growth – Umahi

Minister of Works, David Umahi, has voiced confidence that the rehabilitation of the 78.62-kilometre Katsina-Ala–Tordonga–Takum highway in Benue State will improve security and stimulate economic activities across the corridor.

Umahi made the remarks during an inspection tour of the ongoing project, noting that the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu was committed to fostering inclusive governance that ensures every community benefits from federal infrastructure initiatives.

Speaking through the Director of Information and Public Relations, Mallam Mohammed Ahmed Abdullahi, the minister urged the contractor handling the project to strictly adhere to the contract specifications and timeline.

The Federal Controller of Works at the Benue State office of the Federal Ministry of Works, Mukaila Danladi, attributed delays in execution to the state government’s suspension of mining activities.

He explained that construction materials had to be transported from Ebonyi State, which slowed progress.

Danladi further disclosed that security concerns in parts of the area, coupled with the breakdown of an asphalt production machine, also hampered work.

He said a replacement machine had been ordered from abroad, contributing to the delay.

In his remarks, the immediate past chairman of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), Ukeyima Manager, praised President Tinubu for approving the road contract, describing it as a significant intervention for the region.

Earlier, the Project Coordinator of Gerawa Global Engineering, James Ingbian, stated that although the contract was awarded in 2023, operations were disrupted by insecurity and the mining restriction in Benue State.

He added that the company conducted an impact assessment, which led to plans for the establishment of a health clinic to handle emergency medical situations within the host communities.

Ingbian assured that once full operations resumed, the firm would complete the project to standard, in line with the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed with the Federal Government.

Benue: Katsina-Ala–Takum road project will strengthen security, spur economic growth – Umahi