First Lady Oluremi Tinubu Commissions 10 Roads, ICT Centre in Benue, Empowers 1,000 Women

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu Commissions 10 Roads, ICT Centre in Benue, Empowers 1,000 Women

MAKURDI, BENUE STATE — Nigeria's First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has commissioned 10 newly completed intra-city road projects in Makurdi, Benue State, as part of efforts to improve urban infrastructure and boost economic development in the state.

The projects, covering about 11.5 kilometres, were executed under Phase I of the urban renewal programme of the Benue State Government led by Governor Hyacinth Alia.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony on Tuesday, Senator Tinubu said the projects reflected the practical implementation of President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda through investments that directly impact citizens' lives and livelihoods.

She expressed satisfaction with the pace of development in the state and commended Governor Alia for what she described as visionary leadership and commitment to delivering democratic dividends to the people.

According to the First Lady, the newly completed roads—including the Shire Bakut Road dual carriageway, Abu King Shuluwa Road, Mama, Batteren, Alia Street, Dabo Plaza, Fashion Hub Road, Sir James Uppo Street, Tega Bar Street, Giotto Aca Road, and the connecting Spa Road—will stimulate economic growth, improve mobility, enhance security, and raise the quality of life for residents.

"As we commission these roads today, I encourage the good people of Benue to continue supporting the efforts of the governor and to take ownership of these public assets by ensuring their proper use," she said.

In his remarks, Governor Alia noted that the road projects would improve accessibility, reduce travel time, and strengthen connectivity among communities within Makurdi.

Following the road commissioning, the First Lady proceeded to Ihugh in Vandeikya Local Government Area, where she inaugurated and handed over a newly constructed Community ICT Training Centre facilitated by the National Information Technology Development Agency in partnership with the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI).

Addressing a large crowd of residents at the event, Senator Tinubu said the ICT centre was designed to accelerate economic diversification through digitalisation and industrialisation.

She emphasized the importance of information and communication technology in empowering women and girls, saying digital skills would help them overcome traditional barriers, improve educational opportunities, participate in the global economy, and support their families.

The First Lady urged members of the community to take ownership of the facility and maximise its benefits through active participation and utilization.

The centre was named the Lucy Zaiyol Alluor Community ICT Centre in honour of a renowned educationist and former school principal in Benue State.

The facility is the fourth ICT centre established under the NITDA-RHI partnership, following similar projects in Bauchi, Kwara, and Ibadan.

As part of her visit, Senator Tinubu also provided financial support to 1,000 women petty traders, each receiving a grant of N50,000 to support their businesses and improve their economic well-being.

The initiatives form part of ongoing efforts by the Federal Government and its partners to promote infrastructure development, digital inclusion, and women's economic empowerment across the country.