Federal Government announces completion deadline of December 2027 for Makurdi-Otukpo-Enugu road project

The Federal Government has established a deadline of December 2027 for the completion of the crucial Makurdi–Otukpo–Obolo-Affor–9th Mile Enugu dual carriageway, a strategic infrastructure project aimed at enhancing connectivity and commerce.

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Eng. Mukaila Danladi, the Benue State Federal Controller of Works, disclosed this timeline during an inspection of the road by members of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, highlighting the project's progress despite challenging weather conditions.

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The 258-kilometre dual carriageway has been divided into five segments to facilitate expedited completion, with a notable 86 kilometres of binder course already laid on both carriageways.

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According to Eng. Danladi, this highway constitutes the second phase of the Abuja-Akwanga-Nasarawa-Makurdi corridor, extending dualisation from Makurdi through Otukpo and Obollo-Afor to Enugu.

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The project is being funded through a combination of the China EXIM Bank loan and Federal Government counterpart funding, with China Harbour Engineering Company serving as the executing party.

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Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga emphasized that President Bola Tinubu merits praise for his efforts to expand infrastructure nationwide, citing the expressway as a landmark project that will bolster connectivity, commerce, and national integration.

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Onanuga noted that the road has already shortened travel time between Makurdi and Otukpo, reducing the journey from approximately three hours to just one and a half hours.

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The spokesperson commended President Tinubu for his commitment to developing infrastructure across the country, highlighting the significance of linking the North Central and South East regions.

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Onanuga stated that enhanced connectivity will undoubtedly boost passenger traffic and commerce, enabling the efficient transportation of goods across state borders.