President Bola Tinubu has flagged off the construction of a flyover at the Wurukum Roundabout in Makurdi, the Benue capital.

Mr Tinubu, who performed the ceremony on Saturday in Makurdi, said the flyover was a major component of the second phase of the Makurdi–9th Mile Road dualisation project.

The president, represented by the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, thanked the Benue government and citizens for their cooperation and support in ensuring the smooth takeoff of the project.

He said the project, which was 260 kilometres of dual carriage representing 520 kilometres, is one of the largest legacy projects under his current administration.

The president said the project was awarded at a cost of $950 million and was funded by China Exim Bank.

“The flyover was never in the initial budget, but it is a gift from Mr President to Governor Hyacinth Alia. This project will serve as a catalyst for economic revolution across Benue, Enugu, and the entire region.

“We assure you of the highest quality, and we will ensure timely delivery,” he said.

Mr Alia, in his remarks, described the flyover and dualisation works as a “game changer” that will transform transportation, agriculture, and trade across the state and beyond.

The governor expressed gratitude to the president for the projects executed by the federal government in Benue so far.

He added that his administration has also complemented FG’s efforts by rehabilitating sections of the Gboko–Makurdi road using state resources.

The lead consultant for the project, Adam Onundi, managing director of Yolas Consultants Ltd, said the Makurdi–9th Mile dualisation was divided into five sections, covering 250.6 kilometres, in addition to the 15.8-kilometre Lafia Bypass.

“The flyover at Wurukum marks the beginning of section one of the Makurdi–9th Mile stretch. Each carriageway is 7.3 metres wide with standard shoulders, a stone base, and asphalt layers designed for durability.

“The existing road will also be improved to meet modern standards,” he said.

The project manager of China Harbour Construction Company, Li Wang, pledged timely and high-quality delivery of the works.

(NAN)