The Federal Government has officially commenced the second phase of the rehabilitation of the Babban Lamba‒Sharam Road in Plateau State.
While reaffirming its dedication to delivering crucial infrastructure aimed at fostering economic growth, enhancing regional connectivity, and promoting national development and integration.
The project, a strategic investment under President Bola Tinubu’s infrastructure renewal programme, was flagged off by Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, the National Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), who represented the President.
Prof Yilwatda emphasized that the road is expected to stimulate economic activities, create employment opportunities, boost tourism and culture, and strengthen regional ties.
He highlighted the road’s immense national significance, as it serves as a vital link connecting the North Central, North East, South East, and, by extension, the South-South geopolitical zones of Nigeria.
During the ceremony, Professor Yilwatda urged the contractor, Messrs Decency Associates (Nigeria) Limited, to ensure the timely completion of the project while adhering to the highest quality standards.
He also underscored the historical importance of the area, noting it as the birthplace of former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, and the late Governor of the old Benue-Plateau State, Police Commissioner Joseph Gomwalk.
He appealed to the contractor to prioritize the employment of local indigenes throughout the construction
period.
Engr. David Umahi, the Honourable Minister of Works, expressed his gratitude to the Ngas community for bestowing upon him the prestigious chieftaincy title of Ngorot Ngasmwa
(Lover of Ngas).
He pledged his personal commitment to overseeing the project’s successful
completion, stating that the honour had made him a “son of the soil.”
Minister Umahi highlighted the administration’s achievements in the road sector under the Renewed Hope Agenda, describing the four Legacy Road Projects as catalysts for growth and prosperity.
He praised President Tinubu as a “God-sent, bridge-builder, and visionary
leader,” and assured Nigerians that the government is committed to providing road and bridge infrastructure across all regions without marginalization.
Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, welcomed the Federal Government’s intervention, describing the project as a “landmark intervention” that will reduce travel time and unlock new investment opportunities in the state and beyond.
He commended President Tinubu and the Minister of Works for prioritizing critical road infrastructure nationwide.
The event also saw pledges of sustained funding and proper oversight from the Chairmen of the Senate and House Committees on Works, Senator Allwell Heacho Onyesoh and Hon. Akin Alabi, respectively.
Former Governor and current Senator representing Plateau South, Sen. Simon Lalong, also expressed his appreciation for the infrastructure projects extended
to the state and the North Central region.
The Babban Lamba‒Sharam Road, Phase II, spans 38.625 kilometres from Babban-Dungun Village to Sharam, with an additional two-kilometre spur linking Dungun to Kwai.
The Ministry of Works remains committed to delivering durable, safe, and accessible roads across Nigeria to support sustainable economic growth and national development.