Ayuba Sanusi
THE construction of the 258 km, three-lane carriageway Kebbi sector of the Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway is now underway. This section is part of the 1068 km Super Highway project launched by the Tinubu administration.
Governor Nasir Idris, representing President Tinubu at the project’s flag-off in Gulumbe town near Birnin Kebbi, praised the President’s commitment to enhancing citizens’ quality of life through infrastructure.
“President Tinubu has ensured the execution of this unprecedented project—the longest super highway in Nigeria. The people of this country are happy with him; he has delivered on his promises,” said Governor Idris.
He also acknowledged the National Assembly and the Federal Executive Council for their role in making the project possible and thanked the President for the financial support to commence the work.
Governor Idris expressed confidence in the construction firm, Hightech, known for delivering high-quality projects, to meet all specifications in the highway’s construction.
The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, symbolically handed over the project to the contractor, emphasizing the historical importance of the super highway, initially conceived by the late Shehu Shagari’s administration 48 years ago.
“This project is more than a road; it’s an investment with high returns,” Umahi explained, adding that 68 dams will be built along the highway to boost agriculture and food security, while wind energy and agro-allied processing opportunities will also be developed.
Additionally, a rail line will run parallel to the highway to facilitate goods and passenger transport. Although the projected completion time is 36 months, the aim is to accelerate efforts to finish within two years.
The Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Sama’ila Muhammadu Mera, pledged the support of traditional rulers for the successful completion of the highway and reaffirmed their loyalty to the administration.
Other dignitaries, including the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Sen. Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, and Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Sen. Muhammadu Adamu Aliero, commended President Tinubu’s infrastructure development under the Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly through this significant highway project.
Eighteen-Eleven Media