The Federal Government’s proposed ₦1.5 trillion reconstruction and dualisation of the Lambata–Bida– Mokwa–Makera–Kontagora highway will accelerate economic growth and open up Niger State’s agricultural potential.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, disclosed this on Friday in Abuja when he led members of the Niger State Development Forum on a courtesy visit to the Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago.
The minister commended Bago’s administration for its investments in agriculture, infrastructure, urban renewal and economic development, particularly its focus on mechanised farming, commercial agriculture and agro-industrial expansion.
He described Niger State as strategically important to Nigeria because of its vast agricultural resources, location and contribution to national electricity generation through the Kainji, Jebba and Shiroro hydroelectric installations.
“Your administration’s investments in agriculture, infrastructure, urban renewal and economic development are laying important foundations for the transformation of our state,” Idris said.
He also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the highway project, saying it would improve access to farming communities, link markets with industrial centres and ease the movement of agricultural produce, goods and people.
The groundbreaking ceremony for the project is scheduled to hold in Bida on October 13, 2026.
Governor Bago thanked President Tinubu for his support for Niger State, noting that the state had benefited from federal infrastructure projects, development financing and appointments to federal institutions.
He said the highway would support agricultural prosperity, improve the movement of people and goods, and create a more favourable environment for businesses to thrive.
The minister also expressed condolences to families and communities affected by recent tragedies and security challenges in the state, while acknowledging the efforts of the state and federal governments, as well as security agencies, to protect lives and property.
