ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-The Rural Access and Mobility Project, funded by the World Bank, plans to construct 534 kilometers of rural roads in Benue State to enhance the transportation of agricultural produce.
This was revealed by the State Project Coordinator, Mr. Stephen Numbeve, during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Makurdi.
Numbeve also stated that the project includes the construction of warehouses across the state for storing agricultural produce.
“We prioritised the development of engineering road designs for the 534 kilometres of roads we intend to construct. Surveys, geophysical studies, and final designs have been completed.
“With all these in place, we are ready to move forward once the funds are available. These roads will connect farms to markets, enabling farmers to transport their produce with ease.
“Beyond roads, we plan to build warehouses where farmers can store fresh or dry produce securely. This infrastructure will significantly boost agricultural productivity and market access.
“The roads span across all local governments in the state. However, there is no specific allocation or sequence for the 534 kilometres.
“These are not trunk A or trunk B roads, which are federal and state roads, respectively. Instead, they are trunk C or D roads designed to create access for farmers to reach markets,” he added.
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The State Project Coordinator explained that the delay in starting the road projects was due to the previous administration’s failure to pay the counterpart funds.
He noted that while other states had fulfilled their obligations and progressed with the projects, the new administration in Benue has now taken the necessary steps to address the issue.
“We are now at the stage of accessing funds from the World Bank and the European Investment Bank.
“These funds will be directed toward building roads and markets. So far, we haven’t accessed any funds, but progress has been made.
“While access to funds is a challenge, it’s important to understand that international funding involves statutory requirements.
“These funds are not government resources, so certain prerequisites must be met. For example, counterpart funding is mandatory. If it isn’t paid, the funds cannot be accessed,” he said.
He revealed that upon assuming office, there was also a challenge with insufficient office accommodation.
He noted that the previous administrative setup fell short of the standards set by the International Technological Association.
According to him, a dedicated office space was necessary to prevent undue political interference.
(NAN)