The Benue State Government has commenced the construction of a 1,080-unit housing estate in Makurdi, aimed at addressing the state’s housing deficit and reducing the rising cost of accommodation in the capital city.
The project, to be known as Eco-City Estate, was officially flagged off on Wednesday.
Governor Hyacinth Alia, represented by his deputy, Sam Ode, said the housing initiative reflects his administration’s commitment to transforming Benue into a modern, competitive state.
“For those who are wise, the BIPC Eco-City is the place to invest,” the governor declared. “I encourage investors, especially citizens of Benue, to subscribe to this smart estate, which will conform to modern housing standards.”
He added that the ongoing dualisation of the Wurukum Roundabout, located near the project site, is designed to improve accessibility and increase the estate’s value.
Governor Alia urged both local and external investors to take advantage of the project as early off-takers. “We have allocated two hectares of land here and another two hectares in a different location. Our goal is to ensure Benue indigenes benefit directly from these opportunities,” he said.
The Group Managing Director of the Benue Investment and Property Company (BIPC), Dr. Raymond Asemakaha, highlighted the pressing need for sustainable and affordable housing in the state.
According to him, the first phase of the project will deliver 32 housing units, followed by another 48 units, while an additional 30 hectares of land has been earmarked for the development of 1,000 more units.
“We are starting with 32 units, then moving to 48. For the larger 1,000-unit scheme on 30 hectares, delivery will be in phases—the first within six months and the rest within 24 months,” Asemakaha explained.
The Eco-City Estate is being constructed on the former Benue Brewery Limited Quarters in Makurdi, a site that once served as a major industrial hub in the state.
