By Evelyn Soorkwagh
With the wave of massive infrastructural development going on in Benue state under the administration of Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, it is clear that by the end of his tenure, Benue, especially the Makurdi metropolis may reflect the urban sophistication of Abuja or highbrow areas of Lagos.
The semi-urban areas may equally change from glorified timid rural areas to wear the looks of modernity.
Since his election and assumption of office as the 6th democratically elected governor of Benue State, the government of Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia has shown a clear aversion to dilapidated public structures. His projects reflect vision and quality, as exemplified by the almost completed underpasses in Makurdi and Gboko; the modernization of infrastructure in public primary Schools, as well as the quality of urban and rural roads he is delivering across the state.
But beyond these landmark projects, what stands out is his commitment to giving Benue a clean, modern look.
A prime example is the comprehensive remodeling and furnishing of the Benue State Secretariat. Once a neglected edifice despite housing top civil servants and appointees. The Secretariat, built by the legendary Aper Aku received its first attention after 41 years under Governor Alia. The Secretariat has now been revitalized with state-of-the-art facilities, breathing new life into a critical government hub.
Likewise, the State Assembly complex, hitherto in a state of absolute decay, has been renovated and upgraded with modern features and exquisite furniture, finally giving the legislative arm a befitting environment for their business of lawmaking.
One of the most commendable aspects of Governor Alia’s legacy is the high-quality road infrastructure being delivered across the state. Unlike past administrations that constructed roads that barely lasted a year, the Alia administration ensures roads are built with the future in mind, saving successive governments from recurring reconstruction.
Another vital facelift is the renovation of the Commissioners’ Quarters, a legacy project that is to serve as residence for key cabinet members and the university leadership. Long neglected, the quarters are now undergoing speedy and massive upgrades, driven by the governor’s vision for decency and functionality.
*Evelyn Soorkwagh is a patriots. She writes from Makurdi.
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