Benue State officials and residents are celebrating the substantial progress on the 854-metre dual carriage Buruku-Wukari link bridge, anticipating its completion as a major catalyst for the state's economy and a solution to dangerous river crossings.

Benue Deputy Governor Sam Ode described the project as a "golden gift" from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, highlighting its potential to connect the North-Central and North-East regions through Buruku in Benue and Wukari in Taraba State. He noted that the bridge will end the long-standing risk of lives lost due to boat accidents on the river, which has historically caused numerous fatalities and property damage.

Ode also praised the construction pace and quality, with Setraco, a leading construction firm, handling the project. He stated that the bridge will unlock new economic opportunities for farmers in Buruku, Logo, Katsina-Ala, and Ukum local government areas, which are known for yam production. The direct access to the yam headquarters in Ukum Local Government is expected to transform the Sankera Federal Constituency into a major economic hub, facilitating easier transportation of crops across the country.

Governor Hyacinth Alia has shown strong commitment to the project, including briefing the state executive council on its status and ensuring the state government fulfills its obligations regarding right of way and compensation for affected lands. The Benue State government has confirmed that these responsibilities have been met.

Mukaila Danlandi, the Federal Controller of Works in Benue State, confirmed that construction, funded by the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Fund, began in 2023 and has not faced funding challenges. He acknowledged initial compensation issues for crops and structures but stated that Governor Alia's intervention resolved these. Substructures, pile caps, and piers are complete, with precast beams ready for installation, though high water levels during the rainy season have temporarily paused some river work. The project is slated for completion by December 2027.

Local leaders echoed the excitement. Raymond Zege Aondoakura, Chairman of Buruku Local Government, noted that nearly 200 lives have been lost on the river in the past three years, making the bridge a vital relief. Jonathan Ta Modi, Chairman of Ukum Local Government, emphasized the bridge's importance for Buruku, described as the largest yam-producing local government in Africa, and its role in providing the shortest route for distributing goods to neighbouring Taraba State and beyond.

Residents are already experiencing benefits, with over 50 local youths employed by the construction company in various roles. Bayo Onanuga, who led a presidential media team on a tour of federal projects in Benue, cited the bridge as evidence of the effective use of borrowed funds for national development. He pointed out that this is the fifth federal bridge being built in Benue, underscoring the administration's commitment to infrastructure development and improved commerce, particularly in previously underserved rural areas.