The Federal Government has expressed satisfaction with the commitment of Governor Hyacinth Alia to the people of Benue State, and his intervention on federal roads.
Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, who stated the position of the Federal Government, when he inspected the Wurukum flyover, said that the bridge was initially not part of the plan for the road as it was provided for in the budget, but it is a gift by President Bola Tinubu to Governor Hyacinth Alia for the commendable work he is doing in Benue State.
In the words of words of Umahi; “It is a gift Mr. President asked me to give to you for the infrastructural development you have put and still putting in place which clearly shows the love you have for your people.
“We have seen a demonstration of love and support from your people. We have seen the federal road you are intervening. And according to Mr. President, there is no road that is being used by the federal government. Everybody is in the federal government.
“We keep saying that the federal government cannot construct all the federal roads. Governor Alia, we have seen a lot of what you are doing in Benue State.
“Everybody that uses the road in Benue is for the good governance of the Benue people. So, we thank you very highly. Now, this project is moving from Makurdi to Ninth Mile in Enugu State; Benue State alone covered 260km by 2. That is 520km.
“When we talk about legacy projects, Your Excellency, there is no section in any state that is up to 520km. So, you really came in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. So, you are a lucky Governor.
“The cost is about $950. Roughly $1bn. This is being funded by the China Eximbank. So, Benue people have every cause to be grateful to God Almighty, and for the Love President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated for the State.
“This project alone is going to be a catalyst for the economic revolution in both Benue, Enugu State, and the entire regions. So, we really appreciate Mr. President.
“Your Excellency, Governor Alia, I want to thank you most sincerely. You have paid the compensation to those whose properties are affected by the construction work. This means you have paved the way for work to progress without hitches. “This is very commendable. It shows your commitment for this project. It shows your support and love for Mr. President.
“Thank you again for the infrastructural development, especially the roads you are constructing and rehabilitating in the state.
“Thank you for caring for your people. Governance is tough, but with the hand of God upon you, you are going to be remembered at the end of this journey,” Umahi stated.