For more than two decades, the 40-kilometre Makurdi–Naka federal road in Benue state remained a symbol of neglect, hardship, and insecurity for thousands of residents, commuters, and businesses that depend on the route daily.

 

The major highway, which connects Makurdi, the Benue state capital, to Naka and serves as a gateway toward parts of eastern Nigeria, has suffered severe deterioration over the years, leaving road users to contend with dangerous driving conditions, prolonged travel times, and increased exposure to criminal activities.

 

However, the recent move by the Benue state government under governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia to facilitate the reconstruction of the road has generated optimism among stakeholders, with many describing the intervention as a turning point for affected communities.

 

Former Registrar of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), Dr. Engr. Felix Atume, has applauded the initiative, describing it as a significant step toward restoring security, improving transportation, and boosting economic activities along the corridor.

 

Atume, who also served as Benue state Commissioner for Works, said the reconstruction would address years of suffering experienced by residents, particularly the Tyoshin community, which has been heavily impacted by the poor condition of the road.

 

Speaking with journalists in Jalingo, the former COREN Registrar said the deplorable state of the highway had contributed to insecurity in the area, making commuters and residents vulnerable to bandit attacks, kidnappings, and killings.

 

“The 40-kilometre Makurdi–Naka road is a federal road that connects Benue with the eastern parts of Nigeria. It has been in a deplorable condition for over 20 years without serious attention,” Atume said.

 

He explained that the road’s deteriorated condition had created opportunities for criminal elements to operate, thereby threatening the lives and livelihoods of people living within the surrounding communities.

 

“The poor nature of this road has turned it into a hotspot for daily attacks, killings, and kidnapping of innocent Nigerians, especially people within the immediate community,” he added.

 

The planned reconstruction project followed an assessment visit to the road by the Chairman of Gwer West Local Government Area, Hon. Victor Ormin, who acted on the directive of Governor Alia.

 

Ormin led a team of engineers and surveyors from China Harbour Engineering Company Limited (CHEC), headed by Engr. Ronaldo Lee, for a comprehensive evaluation of the road ahead of the commencement of reconstruction work.

 

The assessment marked a major step toward transforming the long-abandoned highway and restoring confidence among residents who have endured years of difficulties due to its poor condition.

 

A Humanitarian Intervention

Beyond infrastructure development, Atume described the project as a humanitarian intervention that would bring relief to communities that have suffered the consequences of poor road access.

 

He said governor Alia’s decision demonstrated commitment toward addressing the challenges facing the people of Tyoshin and other communities along the route.

 

“Governor Hyacinth Alia‘s move to reconstruct the road is commendable. I am happy, and the Tyoshin community is happy with the governor over this development,” he stated.

 

According to him, the impact of the project goes beyond transportation, as improved road infrastructure would contribute significantly to security, commerce, agriculture, and social development in the area.

 

The former Works Commissioner expressed confidence in the ability of China Harbour Engineering Company Limited (CHEC) to execute the project according to required standards.

 

He urged residents of Gwer West Local Government Area to support the government and the contractor by creating an enabling environment for the smooth execution and timely completion of the project.

 

As work progresses, residents and stakeholders are hopeful that the reconstruction of the Makurdi–Naka road will mark the beginning of a new era of safer movement, economic growth, and renewed development for communities along the corridor.