The Benue State Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP) has commenced the construction of two critical culverts in Vandeikya Local Government Area to improve rural infrastructure and ease the movement of agricultural produce.
The project includes a single-cell culvert at River Sambe in Tse Zekera, Mbailiv, Mbanguur, and another at River Tyough ki Uywer in Mbabar, Mbakough, Tsambe. These interventions are expected to significantly enhance transportation links to major markets such as Ager-Jootar-Adeyongo and Ijugh, which serve farming communities renowned for the massive production of cassava, rice, oranges, and other crops.
Local stakeholders have welcomed the development. Elder Kwaghgba Bogum and Pius Tarvihi, Youth Leader of Mbabar, noted that the single-cell culvert, complete with 200m lines of 800m×800m drain, will tackle perennial flooding while accelerating vehicular movements, particularly for conveying oranges from farms to markets. Similarly, farmer and stakeholder Terpase Iorliamen, alongside Aondona Gwegwe, Youth Leader of Mbailiv, highlighted that the triple-cell culvert will benefit commuters heading to Mbaakon in Mbadede and the Ijugh market upon completion.
Engr. Patrick Iorzua, Technical Assistant to the Project Coordinator, called on residents to take ownership of the project, protect construction materials, and cooperate with the contractor for timely delivery. The contracting firm, Nic Technology, represented by Engr. Ola Mohammed, expressed appreciation to the state government for the opportunity and urged communities to close ranks to ensure successful execution.
The development has been received with enthusiasm, with residents pledging continued support for the Benue State Government and Governor Hyacinth Alia, especially as the state prepares for the next election cycle. The culverts represent a practical step towards addressing rural access challenges and boosting agricultural marketing in the region.
