The Benue State Government has reaffirmed that the ongoing dualisation of the Otukpo township road will be completed by June 2026, despite earlier delays.
Deputy Governor Dr. Sam Ode gave the assurance on Friday, January 16, 2026, during a media briefing following an inspection of Phase Two of the Makurdi–Ninth Mile dual carriageway within Otukpo Local Government Area. The project is being executed by the Federal Ministry of Works.
Dr. Ode disclosed that the state government is providing strong support to the federal authorities by funding compensation along the Wurukum Roundabout to Orokam axis, a critical section of the project.
According to him, the Benue State Government has so far committed over ₦4.6 billion to compensate affected residents and relocate public utilities located within the project’s right of way.
He commended the Federal Ministry of Works for responding promptly to the appeal made by the administration of Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Alia, which resulted in the redeployment of China Harbour Engineering Company to resume construction work on the Otukpo township section.
The Deputy Governor added that the Controller of Works has assured the state that construction on the Otukpo axis would be fully completed by June 2026.
He further revealed that the Commissioner for Water Resources, Environment and Climate Change would collaborate closely with his office to address lingering challenges slowing down the project.
Dr. Ode explained that the relocation of water pipelines and overhead power lines would be concluded within two weeks, clearing the way for unhindered construction.
Highlighting the importance of the road to the Idoma community, he noted that years of neglect had caused serious hardship for residents. He expressed optimism that the completed dual carriageway would boost economic activities and significantly improve transportation within the area.
On behalf of the construction firm, Site Manager Mr. Dong Hong Jie identified the relocation of pipelines and electricity poles as the major obstacle but assured that work would soon gather momentum.
He revealed that construction would intensify with work beginning on the right-hand side asphalt pavement, which is expected to be completed before the end of next month.