In a significant infrastructure development for Nigeria’s Middle Belt region, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially commenced the construction of a new flyover in the Wurukum area of Makurdi, the Benue State capital .
The project, announced during a working visit to the state, is poised to address the perennial traffic gridlock that has long plagued the key Wurukum roundabout, a major junction connecting several important roads .
Local reports state that preparatory groundwork for the construction is already underway . The flyover is expected to bring substantial benefits to the region, not only by easing chronic traffic congestion but also by beautifying the environment and helping to curb criminal activities that have been associated with the traffic delays in the area .
During the ceremony, the President was thanked by state officials and residents for approving the federal project. Governor Hyacinth Alia was also acknowledged for his role in facilitating the initiative, with one source noting the governor’s administration had been responsible for paying compensation to affected stakeholders .
However, the project also presents immediate challenges. A prominent local voice noted that construction will necessitate diverting traffic onto the old bridge and surrounding township roads. Concerns were raised about the state of these alternative routes, including the North-Bank–Old Bridge–Water Board road and the Ankpa-Ward road, which are described as being in a state of disrepair and potentially unable to handle the increased volume of heavy-duty vehicles .
Consequently, a call has been made for the Benue State Government to urgently rehabilitate these connecting roads before the full traffic diversion takes effect, to ensure smooth movement and prevent accidents during the construction period .
This project follows closely behind the recent inauguration of a similar infrastructure feat in Nasarawa State, where President Tinubu commissioned the N16 billion “Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu Interchange” in Lafia, which comprised a flyover and an underpass constructed by Governor Abdullahi Sule’s administration without external borrowing .
The Makurdi flyover represents a continued push by the federal government to enhance critical infrastructure and stimulate economic growth across the nation.
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