Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia of Benue State has officially performed the groundbreaking for the BIPC Eco-City Estate, situated at the former BBL Quarters in Makurdi.
Speaking through his Deputy, Barr. Sam Ode, mni, the Governor restated his administration’s resolve to make affordable housing available to residents across the state.
He stressed that his broader goal is to reposition Makurdi into a world-class urban center, noting that road infrastructure would be provided to connect the new estate for ease of movement.
Applauding the leadership of the Benue Investment and Property Company (BIPC), Governor Alia encouraged indigenes and investors to key into the project, describing it as a major turning point for the housing sector in the state.
The Group Managing Director of BIPC, Dr. Raymond Asemakaha-CFA, revealed that the development will feature 70 duplexes under phases one and two of the Eco-City scheme, while a third phase will target low-income earners.
According to him, the initiative is part of a conscious plan to reduce living expenses in Makurdi and make decent homes more accessible. *“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 along Gboko Road for a low-income housing estate,”* he said.
Delivering a goodwill message, Secretary to the State Government, Dcns Deborah Aber, commended BIPC for bold reforms in the real estate sector and disclosed that the state government is collaborating with the Federal Mortgage Bank to deliver affordable homes for civil servants.
Offering technical insights, the General Manager of Real Estate and Infrastructure, Lucy Jato, explained that the estate is designed with modern smart facilities and will comprise four-bedroom detached houses.
