BENUE RAAMP

BN-RAAMP READS RIOT ACT TO ERRING CONTRACTORS
Contractors handling the construction of BN-RAAMP projects have been advised to adhere strictly to structural designs and contract terms or risk revocation, henceforth.
This is part of the Benue State’s government commitment to improve rural infrastructure in line global best practices. On his tour of some of the project sites in Vandeikya, Stephen Numbeve, who was represented by the Infrastructural Engineer, Engr. Fevosun Akpen expressed dissatisfaction over the work done at River Andidier in Mbaajimer which connects Ukpe and Mbakambe in Mbayongo Council Ward. He directed the Foreman of Zumar Global Services Ltd, to anchor the reinforcement in line with specifications while maintaining spacing as specified in the structural design. He directed that the casting of the top slab should be put on hold, until the necessary corrections are done, consequent approval sought and gotten.
At River Utyaveleshe in Mbagyaa, Mbayongo, the contractor, Sinai Nig. Ltd, was asked to resume work immediately citing gross negligence despite mobilization. Some community members decried the contractor’s lack of cooperation and unavailability despite their efforts to assist him on the site. An elder of the community, expressed disappointment with the attitude of the contractor saying it has been over a week after the double cell culvert was excavated that he abandoned the site.
At River Atitom in Mbagyar, Mbayongo, contractor, Mosando Nig. Ltd was asked to reposition the alignment of the main distribution bar to be able to contain and share the weight on the slab. This, he said, will prevent the culvert from collapse.
The visit which also led to the construction site at River Jirjigbe. The triple cell culvert under construction by Avamoor Nig. Ltd was commended for the good work and pledged to sustain partnership with him.
Meanwhile, directed for necessary action was an erosion control intervention at the NKST Church, Tor, along Tsar Mbaduku road, Mr Numbeve directed the contractor, Scamt Nigeria Ltd. to construct a 100m length drainage beside the church and implored him to hasten the work, citing the danger that it may pose to the church.

Stephen Ijoh
PDCS, BN-RAAMP

BN-RAAMP TO COMMENCE CONSTRUCTION OF CULVERTS AT NINGEV AND TSAMBE IN VANDEIKYA.
The Benue State government commences the construction of culverts in Ningev and Tsambe Council Ward both in Vandeikya local government area to boost commercial agriculture in the area.
The culverts which are strategic will interconnect many communities, farmlands, and markets that will boost food production and agricultural marketing in the area. The culverts are to be constructed in River Akpen, River Atum and River Ushakua in Ningev and that of Tyough ki Usambe in Mbagbor, Mbahile, Tsambe, in Gbem.

Speaking at the Traditional Council Meeting, the State Project Coordinator Benue State Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project, Stephen Numbeve, gave the charge during an interface with Traditional Rulers of Ningev extraction while on a handing over tour of the projects to contracted firms.
He said, rural transformation is key in the policy direction of His Excellency, Rev. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia; and sought their kind cooperation in taking ownership of the projects while soliciting support of the youth to complement the commitment towards achieving a speedy and hitch-free completion of the work.
Represented by the Infrastructural Engineering, Engr. Fevosun Akpen, called on the Traditional Rulers to take ownership of the project and to avoid the plundering of construction materials on sites, which will frustrate the intervention. He added that the government will not tolerate it while suing for understanding.
Responding, the District Head of Ningev, Zaki Tyoakaa Ayila, appreciated the goodwill of the Governor in considering them at this critical moment stressing that such a gesture will impact meaningfully on the lives of his subjects and called on his people to take the projects very seriously while pledging their unalloyed to the Governor.

In separate remarks, the Kindred Head of Mbaagir, Zaki Torsho Terungwa and the Youth Leader of Mbaagir, Moses Ikyaave and former youth leader of Ningev, Terver Tobias all agreed to do their best in supporting and appreciated the Governor for the facility.

Those in attendance were all the Kindred Heads of Ningev including Tax collectors and their subjects respectively.
In his remarks, the representative of the contractor handling the construction of River Akpen, Engr Victor Ubili, of Ter- Aron Nig. Ltd who spoke on behalf of the contractors thank God for the engagement and promised to deliver on time. Others include Agomic Energy Resources awarded to construct River Tyough ki Usambe and River Ushakua which links Bako settlement to Tyokase in Mbaagir

Stephen Ijoh
PDCS, BN-RAAMP

BN-RAAMP SETS TO CONSTRUCT A CULVERT AT RIVER MTONKOHOL IN GWER EAST.

Benue State Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project is to construct a culvert at the River Mtonkohol in Gwer East Local Government Area of the state.
The State Project Coordinator Benue State Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project, Stephen Numbeve, made this known while handing over the project site to the Contractor, Fanyotex Nig. Ltd. He charged him to use his wealth of experience and deliver to specification.

The culvert, on completion, will facilitate rural transport from Aji-Ikpayongo in Gwer East in addition to facilitating marketing of agricultural produce like cassava, yam, millet, guinea corn and rice.
Performing the ceremony, Stephen Numbeve implored the contractor to do his best as the wet season was around the corner, and called on the youth to complement his efforts by taking ownership of the project.

Represented by the Head of Infrastructural Engineering, Engr. Fevosun Akpen, Stephen Numbeve called on the traditional rulers in the area to charge their subjects against theft on site; which might slow down the pace of work.

In his brief remarks, the Kindred Head of Mbakiriki, Mbakya in Ugondo, Zaki John Vahan Agba represented by his Secretary, Pua Valentine appreciated the kind gesture of His Excellency aimed at transforming rural areas to boost food production and pledged their unalloyed support in the delivery of the project.

In separate remarks, the Youth Leader, Terser Adzaayo and the Tax Collector, Zaki Daniel Nongo all accepted to cooperate with the contractor adding that two culverts were previously constructed but have collapsed. They expressed confidence in the capability of BN-RAAMP in changing the narratives.
Similarly, another contract has been awarded on the construction of the Adaka stream at Shungu Bongo along Owner Occupier Housing Estate to Tse Ayihe village connecting Tingir and Sokpo village.

The contractor, Nuellika Infinity Ltd, was charged to leave up to expectations considering his wealth of experience.
Responding on behalf of the awardees, the Managing Director/Chief Executive of Fanyotex Nig. Ltd, Engr Uye Dominic appreciated the offer and promised timely delivery of the projects before the commencement of the rains.

Stephen Ijoh
PDCS- RAAMP

GOVERNOR ALIA ORDERS IMMEDIATE CONSTRUCTION OF TRIPLE CELL CULVERT AT RIVER AKU
Yesterday, Agbeede township in Konshisha Local Government Area came alive with excitement as the Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, directed the immediate construction of a triple-cell culvert at River Aku in Mbaatur, alongside two service culverts at River Ngo and Udurugba Stream in Mbaywar kindred, Mbatsen Council Ward.

According to Elder Tovun Udom, the landmark intervention is set to significantly improve access to farmlands, ease transportation to Agbeede Market, and stimulate commercial activities across the area. Community stakeholders noted that the project will also open up access routes linking Ukehe–Ayamgula–Jough and Udam communities, boosting socio-economic development.

The State Project Coordinator of the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), Mr. Stephen Sefa Numbeve, represented at the groundbreaking ceremony by Engr. Fevosun Akpen, reaffirmed that the Governor remains deeply committed to transforming rural infrastructure. According to him, Governor Alia places high priority on opening up hinterlands to reduce hardship and reconnect rural dwellers to markets and opportunities. He appealed to members of the community to make judicious use of the facility, on completion, to be able to access other amenities that will provide succour to the people.

Performing the ceremony at River Aku amid jubilation by youths, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Hon. Aondowase Kunde, described the project as historic. He added that amid the significance of the intervention, the infrastructure will link to the village of late Elder Statesman, Mr. Isaac Shaahu. He emphasized that the gesture reflects the Governor’s leadership style of honouring elders and promoting inclusive development, citing similar interventions across the state.

The Executive Chairman of Konshisha LGA, Hon. Chikyaa Moses Terfa, expressed deep appreciation to the Governor, describing the project as a first-of-its-kind opportunity for the people of Mbatsen. He also spoke about ongoing work to facilitate electricity supply to Agbeede community.

Traditional leadership, represented by the Acting Mue Ter Gaav, HRH Tony Yese, commended the Governor’s developmental strides and urged community members, especially the youth, to protect the project materials to ensure timely completion.

Other stakeholders in the area, lauded the Governor for prioritizing rural development and pledged continued support.
Tony Apav, the representative of the contracting firm, Iorpev Nig. Ltd., assured the community of its technical competence and commitment to delivering the project promptly.

This intervention further demonstrates Governor Alia’s resolve to open up rural communities, enhance agricultural productivity, and drive sustainable development across Benue State.

Yesterday, the Project Coordinator, Mr. Stephen Sefa Numbeve, led some staff of BN-RAAMP to stand in solidarity with Atsor Terseer Raymond of the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project, as he laid his beloved mother to rest.

The burial ceremony, held at Tse-Akombo Kange, Mbagen, Mbatyough in Buruku Local Government Area, was a solemn moment of reflection and support. Speaking on behalf of the BN-RAAMP, the Project Coordinator extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, community elders, and all loved ones affected by the loss. He prayed for God’s comfort and strength to help them bear the painful and irreparable loss.

May her soul rest in peace, and may her family find comfort in the love and support that surrounds them.
Photo speaks:

GOVERNOR ALIA DIRECTS THE RECONSTRUCTION OF TRIPLE CELL CULVERTS AT RIVER AHUM AND MAAKI ALONG JOSEPH SARWUAN TARKA UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE ROAD: INSIST ON CHANNELIZATION AND STONE PITCHING OF CULVERT AT TSE ICHWA MARKET.
By Stephen Ijoh

The Project Coordinator of the Benue State Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project, Mr. Stephen Numbeve implored youth in the state to close ranks with the Alia-led administration to enable greater achievements and success of the administration. This counsel was delivered in an address before the communities of Ichwa, Tse Yandev and Udzer along Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University of Agriculture, Makurdi. He urged the youth to remain united and supportive to Governor Alia's development initiative to breed development in the state.
He said the wholesome directive by His Excellency to reconstruct the culverts at River Ahum and River Maaki and the channelization of the culvert at Tse Ichwa was a landmark achievement that must be supported. He added that youth as vanguards of the society, have the responsibility of taking ownership of the projects to deter saboteurs from destroying them and urged them to remain steadfast in supporting the government to gain more from her goodwill. On the plight of the people over the perennial shortage of portable water in the area, Mr. Numbeve said, the Governor has also directed the drilling of two solar-powered motorized boreholes to service the communities, as the water sources would be tempered with by the earth moving machines.

Commenting on the development, the Vice Chancellor of Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University of Agriculture Makurdi, Prof. Isaac Nathaniel Itodo said the University environment was pleased with the development, which he said has been a long-standing challenge for commuters along the route. Represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration) Prof. Elizabeth Kembe, he said the devastating nature of the road was quite alarming, but with the intervention it would go a long way to cushion the transportation challenges of hundreds of thousands of students of the university. She expressed happiness and gratitude for the intervention, which was coming through the Project Coordinator, who is an alumnus of the university.

In their separate remarks, the kindred Head of Mbakyor, Zaki Tyovenda Vihi of Mbazungwe, Zaki Gowon Ikyegh and the Youth Leader, Udzer National Youth Development Association, Benjamin Asema Yogbo all pledged their unalloyed support to the project and promised to protect it for the benefit of their communities.

Responding, the contractor handling the project sites and Managing Director/CEO of Hillanny Nig. Ltd, Raphael Igweh Ph.D expressed satisfaction with the Benue State government on the award of contract and promised to carry out the work to specifications and complete it on time, to facilitate vehicular movement along the route.

GOVERNOR ALIA APPROVES THE IMMEDIATE CONSTRUCTION OF A 4 CELL BOX CULVERT AT RIVER LESSEL IN USHONGO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA.

By Stephen Ijoh

The Benue State government has reiterated her commitment to sustain the construction of culverts and bridges in most remote communities across the 23 local government areas of the State.

The effort is in line with global perception aimed at improving the livelihood of farmers in the hinterlands of the state with specific targets on farm lands and markets facilities to elicit movement and promote agricultural marketing of farm produce in the state.

In his address to the people of Mbagba in Ushongo local government, the State Project Coordinator, Benue State Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (BN-RAAMP) , Stephen Sefa Numbeve, said government as an institution is responsible to the people and must do all it takes to keep to the promises and aspirations of the people stressing that such a gesture can be translated through the provision of access roads.

He said, Governor Alia is committed to the welfare of the state and will continue to do his best to secure the future of the people.

Represented by the Head of Infrastructural Engineering of BN-RAAMP, Engr. Fevosun Akpen, the Technical Adviser to the State Project Coordinator, Engr. Patrick Iorzua and Development Communication, Stephen Ijoh, all sued for the community ownership of the intervention, and protection of the facility.

Present at the ceremony along Gbatse to Atekombu road, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management and current Executive Secretary of State Emergency Management Agency, SEMA, Dr.James Iorpuu lauded His Excellence's giant strides in promoting rural transformation which he said was apt to meet up with other states of the federation.

He said the culvert which links his maternal home was granted on his request to the Governor who immediately directed BN-RAAMP Boss to take necessary actions towards ensuring the provision of access in the community. The culvert when constructed will ease vehicular movement from Mbagba community to Ihugh town and called on the people to remain supportive of the Alia led administration to derive additional dividends of democracy .

Also speaking at the occasion was the President General of Kunav United Development Association, Mr. Emmanuel Tor Yajir and the President General of Mbagba family Association, Godwin Alumunku all expressed confidence in the administration of Governor Alia to cushion lives at the hinterlands of the state and sued for his re-election by 2027.

The event characterized encomium from community members as the 4 cell culvert was officially handed over to representative of Avamoor Nig. Ltd, Engr Emmanuel Nevkaa and that of a single cell service culvert to representatives of Telland Nig. Ltd.

Highlight of the occasion was the inspiring prayer led by the District Head of Mbagba, HRH, Gregory Tyohile Gate in company of all the kindred Heads of the area

BENUE @ 50: NUMBEVE GREETS THE STATE ON ITS GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY

On behalf of the Management and staff of the Benue State Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (BN-RAAMP), I heartily felicitate with the Executive Governor of Benue State, His Excellency, Chief Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia (ASORTAR U TIV) and the good people of Benue State on the historic celebration of fifty years of the creation of BENUE State, since 3rd February 1976.

This momentous anniversary coincides auspiciously with a period of divine, visionary, and transformative leadership under Your Excellency. It is a season that has continued to record unprecedented achievements in governance, peace-building, infrastructure development, and socio-economic renewal across the state.

We equally extend our warm congratulations to the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Chief Dr. Benjamin Ashaver, for his steadfast commitment to advancing the agricultural sector and aligning policies towards sustainable food security in Benue State.

The mandate of BN-RAAMP is to improve rural access through the construction and rehabilitation of rural roads, enhance agricultural marketing systems, and strengthen rural institutions, thereby reducing post-harvest losses, improving market access, and stimulating rural livelihoods. In line with Your Excellency’s food security agenda, BN-RAAMP remains fully committed to complementing government efforts by opening up rural farming communities, lowering transportation costs for farm produce, boosting agricultural productivity, and uplifting the rural economy.

As Benue State marks this Golden Jubilee, we reaffirm our unalloyed support and partnership with Your Excellency’s administration in the collective quest to achieve food sufficiency, economic prosperity, and sustainable development for our people.

Your Excellency, please accept the assurances of our highest esteem and loyalty.

Congratulations to Benue State at 50!

Yours faithfully,

Stephen Numbeve , MNMS, MNSMB
State Project Coordinator
Benue State Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (BN-RAAMP)

@50

NEW YEAR ADDRESS

As we step into a new year with hope and renewed determination, I warmly extend New Year greetings to the Government and good people of Benue State, our valued partners, stakeholders, and the hardworking staff of the Benue State Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (BN-RAAMP).

The year 2025 stands as a remarkable chapter in our collective journey, one marked by resilience, dedication, and measurable progress in advancing rural access, agricultural productivity, and community development across the state. These achievements would not have been possible without the enabling environment provided by the Benue State Government.

I wish to profoundly appreciate the visionary and purposeful leadership of His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, whose commitment to people-oriented governance, infrastructural renewal, and agricultural transformation continues to inspire confidence and results. His leadership has remained a strong pillar supporting the success of BN-RAAMP.

My sincere gratitude also goes to the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Chief Dr. Benjamin Ashaver, for his strategic oversight, policy guidance, and consistent support that have strengthened project implementation and stakeholder collaboration.

I specially commend the dedicated staff of the State Project Implementation Unit (SPIU) for their professionalism, discipline, teamwork, and sacrifice. Your commitment ensured that our goals were translated into tangible outcomes that positively touched rural communities.

As we begin this new year, we look forward with optimism, renewed energy, and a deeper sense of responsibility. We pray that God Almighty will enlarge our coast in all ramifications, granting us greater wisdom, capacity, unity, resources, and opportunities to deepen impact, strengthen sustainability, and deliver lasting value to the people of Benue State.

Together, we shall build on past gains, overcome emerging challenges, and achieve greater milestones in the year ahead.

Happy New Year, and God bless Benue State

Stephen Numbeve MNMS, MNSMB
State Project Coordinator (SPC)
BN-RAAMP