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- Infrastructure remains Tinubu’s focus- Shettima
From Timothy Olanrewaju, Maiduguri
The Federal Government has started reconstruction of trans-border highway in Borno to boost trade with neighbouring African countries and improve effectiveness of military operations against terrorists and insurgents around Lake Chad.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented President Bola Tinubu, announced in Maiduguri weekend while flagging off reconstruction of the 49.55km Dikwa–Gamboru Ngala Road and 49.15 km Bama–Banki Road. He said two roads were critical to regional trade and security.
“The Bama–Banki Corridor carries special strategic weight. It is a top route of agriculture, movement and national security. The Dikwa–Gamboru Ngala Road belongs to the same vision of reconnecting communities and restoring economic confidence across Borno State,” he stated.
The VP said the roads would revive commerce with Nigeria’s neighbours like Niger, Chad and Cameroon republic up to Sudan. He noted that the highway will also improve troops’ movement across Lake Chad in Borno.
He said President Tinubu prioritises upgrade and development of infrastructure even as he described the Borno State governor, Babagana Zulum as a strong partner to the Federal Government.
Zulum, in his remarks, said the successful commencement of this project, reflects the strong partnership between the Federal Government and Borno State. He commended the president for his impact in the North East.
“Borno State Government recognises that infrastructure remains a critical foundation for development,” he said.
Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, explained that the projects would be executed in two phases.
He urged the contractor to finish the project within the six months agreed, maintaining that “there won’t be an extension.”
The minister recalled that contracts for the rehabilitation and constriction of the two roads, were initially awarded in 2021 but could not be executed due to security challenge in the area.
He said the project, financed through the Tax Credit, will start in two locations. He promised to return to the state in August to inspect the progress of works on the site.
President of Dangote Industries, Alhaji Aliko Dangote said indigenous companies participating in infrastructural development would create direct and indirect jobs to Nigerians. He said Dangote Industries is handling 12 roads projects across the country estimated to be about 1000 kilometres and costing about N3 trillions.
He assured the Federal Government and the Borno State Government of stronger collaboration to improve infrastructure.
