The Nigerian President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been applauded by the Minister of Works, Engr. Nweze David Umahi, together with major stakeholders, for heeding to the cry of millions of Nigerians to resuscitate the 48-year-old Superhighway project.
The meeting was held in Birnin-kebbi, on the alignment for sections 1 & 2, of the superhighway, covering 120 KM in Sokoto and 258 KM in Kebbi, totaling 378 KM, and ending in Badagry, Lagos State.
A statement signed by Abdullahi Ameen Mohammed, on behalf of the Director Press and Public Relations, disclosed that, the Minister of works, in his opening remarks, disclosed that the superhighway will begin from Illela in Sokoto (120 KM) through Argungu, Bunza, and Kamba, ending at Bida town in Niger State for the first and second phases.
Umahi explained that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would officially kick off the project in Kebbi State, benefiting the people of the state, especially in agriculture, commerce, and boosting security.
He stated, “I request, that the people of Kebbi and Sokoto State, support this project.
“Wherever there is a need to compensate the people, we will sit down with you and work it out with the local communities.”
The Minister noted, that the route of the superhighway was the oldest Trans-Sahara trade route, initiated over 48 years ago, but not implemented until President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
He emphasized that the Federal Government, would start using concrete for road construction, in the Northern region to ensure longevity for up to 100 years.
Umahi also highlighted, that the Federal Government had completed many road projects in Sokoto State, and promised that all road projects in Kebbi State, particularly the Koko-Mahuta-Dabai and Malando-Wara roads, would be addressed.
He added, that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu should be commended for implementing the 48-year-old project, which would benefit not only Nigerians but also neighboring countries like Niger Republic, Bénin, and others.
In his remarks, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, described the project as very important.
He noted, that President Tinubu had asked cabinet members, to source funds for executing the project, despite global economic challenges.
Bagudu stated, that the vision of the President, was to address the reality on ground and secure necessary funding, for the benefit of Nigerians and future generations.
He said, “That is why President Bola Tinubu, directed us to go and source the funds to execute our projects.
“Nigeria is the most vibrant economy with a lot of potential and capacity. This project is just the tip of the iceberg. Nigerians should expect many more of such projects.”
He added, that due to the courage and determination of the current administration, world leaders have acknowledged Nigeria’s boldness, and readiness to assist in areas of need.
Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris, commended President Bola Tinubu, for implementing the project and kicking it off in Kebbi State.
Dr. Idris sought the state’s input on the route passages, noting that the government wanted the project execution to be fair and just, to the communities directly benefiting from it.
“We need to give our inputs, before the conclusion of the project so that we can do justice to our people. We are taking a lion’s share of the project, and we have to be just and fair to our people, since the project will have direct benefits for them.” He said.
The Governor, also sought the Minister’s intervention, on the Koko-Mahuta-Dabai and Malando-Wara roads, stressing that the people of these areas, including four LGAs, are suffering due to bad roads.
Senator Adamu Aliero, representing Kebbi Central Senatorial District, expressed his full support for the project, and urged the Minister to address the Koko-Mahuta-Dabai and Malando-Wara roads.
The Chairman of the Senate Committee, on Works, Senator Barinade Npigi, commended President Bola Tinubu, for implementing the project, noting that it had been initiated over 48 years ago. He assured that the Senate, would continue to support the Presidency, in executing meaningful projects for Nigerians.
Hon. Hakeem Alabi, stated that the House of Representatives, would also provide legislative support, to ensure appropriate budget allocation, for the President’s projects.
Traditional rulers, including the Emir of Argungu Alhaji Samaila Muhammad Mera, pledged support and cautioned against potential flooding, during construction. Former Governor Alhaji Saidu Nasamu Dakingari, commended President Tinubu for liberating a vast forest area.
