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Governor Hyacinth Iormemem Alia has issued directives for the immediate reconstruction of triple-cell culverts at River Ahum and River Maakai, as well as channelization and stone pitching of the culvert at Tse Ichwa Market, all along the Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University of Agriculture road in Makurdi.
The governor has also approved the drilling of two solar-powered motorized boreholes to tackle the persistent shortage of potable water in the surrounding communities, complementing the road improvement works and enhancing access to basic infrastructure for residents and students.
The directives were highlighted by Mr. Stephen Numbebeve, Project Coordinator of the Benue State Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RUAMMP), during inspection visits to communities in Ichwa, Tse Yandev, and Udzer. Numbebeve emphasized that the interventions form part of the administration’s broader agenda to improve rural infrastructure, ensure durability of drainage systems, and address critical water needs along key educational corridors.
Speaking during the visits, Numbebeve called on the youth to support Governor Alia’s development initiatives, describing them as the vanguard of society who must take ownership of such projects to deter sabotage and guarantee long-term success. “Youth, as the vanguard of our society, must take ownership of these projects to deter saboteurs and support government initiatives,” he stated.
The Vice-Chancellor of Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University of Agriculture, Prof. Isaace Nathaniel Itodo—represented by Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Elizabeth Kembe—expressed appreciation for the governor’s timely intervention. They noted that the road had long posed serious challenges to students, staff, and commuters, and that the reconstruction and water projects would significantly ease transportation difficulties and improve living conditions in the university’s host communities.
Community leaders, including Zaki Tyovenda Vihi of Mbakyor, Zaki Gowon Ikyegh of Mbazungwe, and Benjamin Asema Yogbo—Youth Leader of Udzer National Youth Development Association—pledged full support for the projects and vowed to protect them for the collective benefit of their people.
Contractor Raphael Igwe, Managing Director of Hillanny Nig. Ltd., assured that the works would be executed to specification, completed on schedule, and deliver smoother vehicular movement along the route.
The combined interventions reflect the Alia administration’s focus on integrated rural development, addressing drainage deficiencies, improving road safety, and providing essential water infrastructure to support education, agriculture, and community well-being in the Makurdi axis.
