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By Tracy Moses
The Benue State Government has officially launched the construction of 1,080 housing units in Makurdi, aimed at addressing the housing shortfall in the state.
The project, named Eco-City Estate, will be executed by the Benue State Investment and Property Company (BIPC). It is designed to provide sustainable and affordable housing, while also easing the rising cost of accommodation, especially in the state capital.
Located on the former premises of the Benue Brewery Limited (BBL) quarters, the estate is expected to significantly reduce the housing deficit in Makurdi.
Group Managing Director of BIPC, Dr. Raymond Asemekaha, explained that construction will begin with 32 units, followed by another 48 units in the next phase. He added that the 30 hectares of land allocated for the project would accommodate 1,000 additional units. According to him, “The first phase will be completed within six months, while the subsequent phases are expected to be delivered in 24 months.”
Governor Hyacinth Alia, who performed the flag-off ceremony, described the project as a reflection of his administration’s determination to transform Benue into a modern and competitive state.
Speaking through his Deputy, Barr. Sam Ode, Alia noted that the ongoing dualization of the Wurukum Roundabout–Gboko Road, which passes near the estate, was part of efforts to ensure easy access to the new development.
Encouraging both residents and investors to take advantage of the project, the governor said: “The BIPC Eco-City Estate is the future of housing in Benue. I urge investors, especially our people, to subscribe to this modern smart estate that meets global standards. We want Benue citizens to be direct beneficiaries of this initiative.”
He further revealed that while two hectares have been set aside for the current development, additional land has also been reserved for future expansion.