The Benue State Government has reiterated its commitment to rural infrastructure development as construction work continues on the 52-kilometre Oju–Awajir Road, a strategic route linking Oju, Konshisha, and Gwer East Local Government Areas.
Inspecting the ongoing project, the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the Governor, Sir Tersoo Kula, described the road as a major intervention under the state’s Special Projects program. He recalled that the road was originally constructed during the administration of the late Aper Aku in the early 1980s and had remained neglected for decades.
“This road was constructed during the Aper Aku administration around 1982, and since then, nobody has touched it. It had fallen into total disrepair. Travelling from here to Oju used to take about three hours, but today, it is a completely different story,” the CPS said.
The Director-General of the Bureau of Special Projects and Infrastructure, Engr. Gabriel Akpen, said the project reflects Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Alia’s commitment to fulfilling campaign promises and improving access to rural communities.
“This road is just one of the many rural roads we are constructing across the three senatorial districts of Benue State under the leadership of His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Alia,” Akpen stated.
According to him, the governor directed the Bureau to assess and commence work on the road shortly after assuming office, following a campaign pledge to rehabilitate the long-abandoned route.
“When His Excellency came into office, he directed us to assess this road because he had promised the people that if elected governor, he would reconstruct it. We carried out the assessment, completed the design, procured the project, and the contractor has since been on site.”
Akpen disclosed that significant progress has been recorded on the project, with 19 kilometres already asphalted and approximately 30 kilometres of earthworks completed.
“The road is 52 kilometres long. We have completed 19 kilometres with asphalt, while earthworks have reached about 30 kilometres. Concrete works have also been completed at the Oju end, and we are optimistic the entire project will be delivered within the next six to seven months.”
He explained that although the initial contract duration was 12 months, security challenges along parts of the corridor necessitated an extension of the project timeline.
The Council Secretary of Gwer East Local Government, Hon. Ajo Ava Peter, commended Governor Alia for executing the project, describing it as a major relief for rural communities.
“I want to appreciate the Executive Governor of Benue State for carrying out this laudable project in our community. When completed, it will provide easier access to our various rural communities.”
Also speaking, the Executive Chairman of Konshisha Local Government, Hon. Chikyaa Terfa Moses, said the road has already begun transforming transportation and economic activities within the area.
“For many years, this road had virtually ceased to exist. Today, people can comfortably travel from Oju to Awaji. It connects Oju, Konshisha, and Gwer East Local Government Areas, and the impact is already visible.”
He added that improved accessibility has boosted commercial activities and enhanced the livelihoods of residents along the corridor.
“Commuters are happy using the road, and communities along the route are benefiting because economic activities have increased significantly.”
The Oju–Awajir Road project is one of several infrastructure initiatives being executed by the Benue State Government to improve rural connectivity, facilitate trade, and enhance socio-economic development across the state.