Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Alia, has been honoured with the prestigious Infrastructure Award at the maiden edition of the BusinessDay States Competitiveness and Investment Readiness Awards held on June 18, 2026, at the NAF Conference Centre in Abuja.
The award, presented by BusinessDay Media Limited, recognizes the significant strides made in infrastructure development across Benue State under Governor Alia’s administration and highlights the state’s growing reputation as a destination for investment and economic growth.
According to the organizers, the award was based on an independent, data-driven assessment of developmental progress across Nigeria. The evaluation drew from verified data obtained from the National Bureau of Statistics, state budget performance reports, public works records, civil society feedback, and measurable impacts on citizens’ lives.
BusinessDay noted that the recognition reflects Governor Alia’s strategic investment in infrastructure as a catalyst for economic development, improved service delivery, and enhanced living standards for residents.
Among the major projects cited was the administration’s ₦149.5 billion infrastructure development programme aimed at modernizing critical public infrastructure across the state. The ongoing reconstruction, dualisation, and extension of the Wurukum-Air Force Base-Renewed Hope Estate Road in Makurdi was also highlighted as a key intervention expected to improve traffic flow and transportation efficiency in the state capital.
Other projects recognized include the upgrade of the Mbawuar-Bako-Negher Road with a spur to Mbaakon, as well as the construction of the five-span bridge at Mu. These projects are expected to strengthen rural connectivity, facilitate agricultural transportation, boost trade, and enhance economic integration among communities.
The award further acknowledged the administration’s efforts in improving access to essential services through the rehabilitation of water supply systems serving communities in Otobi, Otukpo, Gwer East, and Katsina-Ala. These interventions have helped address long-standing challenges related to potable water supply and public health.
In the urban sector, the government has completed over 40 township roads within Makurdi metropolis and is currently overseeing road projects spanning more than 500 kilometres across the state. Additional infrastructure initiatives cited include urban renewal programmes, flood control projects, renovation of public facilities, upgrades to government infrastructure, and the construction of strategic interchanges designed to improve mobility and urban development.
Reacting to the recognition, the Benue State Government described the award as a validation of Governor Alia’s commitment to purposeful leadership and sustainable development.
The government emphasized that infrastructure development extends beyond physical construction, noting that it creates opportunities, stimulates economic activity, attracts investment, and improves the quality of life for citizens.
It further stated that Benue’s growing attractiveness to investors is closely linked to the ongoing infrastructure renewal efforts being implemented across the state. While Benue has long been known as Nigeria’s Food Basket, the administration believes that agricultural productivity must be supported by modern infrastructure capable of enhancing production, transportation, processing, storage, and market access.
The latest honour adds to a growing list of national and international recognitions received by Governor Alia for his contributions to governance, infrastructure development, humanitarian service, digital innovation, and socio-economic transformation.
The Benue State Government dedicated the award to the resilient people of the state, whose support and cooperation continue to drive the administration’s development agenda. It noted that the recognition serves as renewed motivation to remain focused on projects and policies that improve lives and expand opportunities for present and future generations.
The administration reaffirmed its commitment to building a modern, competitive, and prosperous Benue State anchored on transparency, innovation, accountability, and inclusive development.
Source: Office of the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Benue State, Sir Tersoo Kula, MNIPR.
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