FG Flags Off The $950 million Makurdi - 9th Mile Dualisation Project In Makurdi

The Federal Government has flagged off the 260 - kilometre Makurdi - 9th Mike highway project meant to stimulate transportation and commerce across the North-Central and Southeast corridors of the country.

Sep 14, 2025 - 11:19

FG Flags Off The $950 million Makurdi - 9th Mile Dualisation Project In Makurdi

The Federal Government has flagged off the 260 - kilometre Makurdi - 9th Mike highway project meant to stimulate transportation and commerce across the North-Central and Southeast corridors of the country.
The project, estimated at $950 million is funded by the China Exim Bank, covering 520 kilometers in dual carriage terms and one of the largest legacy road projects under the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration.
Speaking on the occasion in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, described the project as a major milestone that would improve economic activities in Benue, Enugu, and neighboring states.
Umahi's words, “The flyover at Wurukum was not in the original design but has been added as a special gift from Mr. President to the people of Benue. This dualization will serve as a catalyst for economic revolution across the region, and we are committed to delivering it with the best quality and on time."
The minister spoke as Governor Hyacinth Alia, who represented President Tinubu, described the dualization project a “game changer” that would enhance trade, agriculture, and connectivity, adding that the road links the Northeast with the South-South and Southeast, making it a lifeline for farmers and businesses.

The project is also, expected to boost regional trade, unlock Benue’s agricultural potential, and ease movement across key economic corridors.
According to Alia, ,"Farmers will now be able to move their produce, including perishable goods, from Benue to Abuja and beyond without the heavy losses we see today."

He then, expressed gratitude to Tinubu for what he described as “one of many gifts” to Benue within two years.
Providing technical details, Engr. Adam Onundi, Managing Director of Yolas Consultants Ltd, said the project is divided into five sections totaling 250.6 kilometers, with an additional 15.8-kilometer Lafia Bypass.

Onundi further said that the Wurukum Flyover, which marks the start of Section One, was designed to ease Makurdi’s notorious traffic congestion, even as the Project Manager, of China Harbour Construction Company, Mr. Wang, assured of high-quality delivery, noting that the company’s strategy was to work on all sections simultaneously for faster completion.

“With support from the federal and state governments on compensation and land acquisition, we are confident of delivering the major works before the next election,” Wang pledged.
Governor Alia later accompanied the Works Minister on inspection of other projects in Makurdi, including the Makurdi–Gboko road and the Highlevel underpass.