Former Registrar of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), Dr. Felix Atume, has commended Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia for initiating the reconstruction of the 40-kilometre Makurdi–Naka federal road.
Atume, a former Benue State Commissioner for Works, described the move as a significant step toward addressing the persistent cases of banditry, kidnappings and killings along the strategic highway.
The Nigerian Tribune recalls that the Chairman of Gwer West Local Government Area, Hon. Victor Ormin, acting on Governor Alia’s directive, recently led a team of engineers and surveyors from China Harbour Engineering Company Limited (CHEC), headed by Engr. Ronaldo Lee, on an assessment tour of the dilapidated road ahead of its reconstruction.
Reacting to the development, Atume praised Governor Alia for what he described as a humanitarian intervention aimed at easing the hardship faced by residents of the Tyoshin community and other road users.
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According to him, the reconstruction will improve transportation, enhance security and stimulate economic activities along the corridor.
“The 40-kilometre Makurdi–Naka road is a federal road linking Benue State with parts of eastern Nigeria. It has remained in a deplorable condition for more than 20 years without meaningful intervention.
“Because of its poor state, the road has become a hotspot for bandit attacks, kidnappings and killings of innocent Nigerians, especially residents of the surrounding communities.
“Governor Hyacinth Alia’s decision to reconstruct the road is highly commendable. The people of the Tyoshin community are happy with this development,” Atume said.
The former COREN Registrar also expressed confidence in the capacity of China Harbour Engineering Company Limited (CHEC) to deliver a quality project.
He appealed to residents of Gwer West and neighbouring communities to cooperate with the state government and the contractor to ensure the successful and timely completion of the project.