The Benue State Executive Council, led by Governor Hyacinth Alia, has approved N149.5 billion for a series of infrastructure projects aimed at improving living standards and driving economic growth across the state.
The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Tersoo Kula, disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday in Makurdi.
He explained that the approval includes the rehabilitation of the Deputy Governor’s Lodge at a cost of N1.1 billion, as well as other major projects worth N148.4 billion.
Among the key projects is the immediate payment of N1.5 billion to CGC, the Chinese construction firm that built the Otobi/Otukpo and Katsina-Ala Water Works about a decade ago.
The council also directed the Ministry of Water Resources, Environment, and Climate Change to engage the company for the rehabilitation of the facility to restore water supply in Otobi, Otukpo, and surrounding areas.
Also approved is the extension and dualisation of the Wurukum–Airforce Base Road at a cost of N68.3 billion.
The project is expected to ease transportation and stimulate economic activity in the region.
Further, the council sanctioned the upgrade of the Mbawuar to Bako-Negher and Spur to Mbaakon Road, estimated at N73.9 billion. Both road projects, along with the construction of a five-span bridge at Mu, will be handled by M/S Bahaus Global Investment Nigeria Ltd.
The state government also approved N4.5 billion for the reconstruction of the State Assembly Complex and an accompanying clinic to provide better facilities for lawmakers and staff.
This project will be executed by Gerewa Global Engineering Ltd.
Kula added that the Federal Government has granted approval for the establishment of an Infectious Disease Control Centre in Vandeikya Local Government Area.
The development follows a request by Governor Alia, who had raised concerns over increasing cases of infectious diseases in the state.