The Federal Government on Tuesday performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the reconstruction and dualisation of the 401-kilometre Lambata–Bida–Mokwa–Makera–Kontagora federal highway in Niger. The project, which is valued at N1.8 trillion, is expected to be executed through the Dangote tax credit scheme using reinforced concrete pavement. The project will involve the construction of a dual carriageway in partnership with the Dangote Group.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Works, Sen. Dave Umahi, explained that the project would be a significant investment in strengthening economic linkage. He said the project was qualified to become the fifth legacy project of President Bola Tinubu, considering its size and the commitment of the President to complete the road. Umahi appreciated President Tinubu for being intentional in the total development of all the states.
According to Umahi, the President has added 400 km to the initially approved 750 km of Lagos-Calabar coastal highway to connect the east-west roads that have been affected by climate change. He further stated that there was an addition of 410 km to the Akwanga-Jos-Bsuchi-Gombe-Biu-Maiduguri road. Umahi assured that with the support of the people, all the ongoing and new projects would be completed.
Gov. Mohammed Umaru-Bago of Niger commended the President for taking a bold step in fixing road infrastructure across the country to facilitate socio-economic growth and development. He noted that the project would greatly improve economic activities and reduce travel time. The governor appreciated the Federal Government for approving the project.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, said that the reforms of President Tinubu were bearing fruit. He said the massive infrastructure taking place in the country was unprecedented. Idris described the project as an expansion and the beginning of the activation of the economic activity of the people of the state.
Speaking on behalf of the President of the Dangote Group, Mr Mansur Ahmed, said the road was very central to the economy of the country. He assured that by the time this road is completed, this corridor will be one of the most economically active corridors in Nigeria. Ahmed said the project would create opportunities for businesses and young people to get jobs.
The project represents a significant investment in strengthening economic linkage, connecting farmers to markets, businesses to customers, and communities to broader commercial opportunities. On completion of this road, it is expected that it will improve traffic flow, enhance road safety, and facilitate the efficient movement of people and goods. Community members thanked the Federal Government for the road, saying it was going to bring rapid development to their communities.
Key points
- The project is valued at N1.8 trillion and will be executed through the Dangote tax credit scheme.
- The project will involve the construction of a dual carriageway in partnership with the Dangote Group.
- The project is expected to improve traffic flow, enhance road safety, and facilitate the efficient movement of people and goods.
