Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State in Northcentral Nigeria has laid the foundation for the construction of 1080 housing units, code-named “Eco-City Housing Estate”.
The estate, located at the former BBL Quarters in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, aims to provide competitively affordable housing for residents when completed.
Governor Hyacinth Alia, who performed the foundation-laying ceremony on Wednesday, insisted that the initiative was part of his administration’s vision to transform Makurdi city into a modern hub, with road networks being constructed for easy access to link the estate.
Represented by his deputy, Barr. Sam Ode, Governor Alia, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing affordable housing estates for the people of the state.
The Group Managing Director of BIPC, Dr. Raymond Asemakaha-CFA, revealed that the project will consist of 70 duplexes in the first and second phases, with plans for a third phase to cater to low-income housing.
The idea he maintained was to reduce the high cost of living in Makurdi and ensure decent housing options.
Dr. Asemakaha explained that the “Benue State Government is supporting this initiative to address the housing deficit in Benue State, partnering with the Federal Mortgage Bank to provide affordable housing for civil servants.”
He noted that the construction of the Eco-City Estate is a significant step towards reshaping the housing sector in the state.
Dr. Raymond Asemakaha said that the project, comprising 70 duplexes, represents the first and second phases of the Eco-City Estate.
He said a third phase is planned, which would cater to a low-income housing scheme.
Dr. Asemakaha explained that the estate is part of BIPC’s deliberate effort to reduce the high cost of living and ensure decent housing for residents of the state.
“We are aware that housing is very expensive in Makurdi, and we are working to bring the cost down. Apart from this project, we have acquired thirty hectares of land along Gboko Road for a low-income housing estate,” he said.
In her goodwill message, Secretary to the State Government, Dcns Deborah Aber, praised BIPC’s management for the bold step taken to reshape the housing sector.
The SSG explained that the state government is partnering with the Federal Mortgage Bank to provide affordable housing for civil servants.
Providing technical details on the project, General Manager of Real Estate and Infrastructure, Lucy Jato, noted that the estate consists of four-bedroom detached apartments with smart and modern facilities.