Nigerian President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has flagged off the reconstruction of the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Federal Road, in Jere, Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State on Sunday.
The event had the presence of Kaduna State Governor, Sen. Uba Sani, who ably represented the President, Minister of Works, Engr David Umahi, Kaduna former Governor, Ramadan Yero, former senator representing Kaduna North Senatorial District at the eighth senate, Suleiman Hunkuyi, among others.
Tinubu, speaking through the Governor said the highway when completed, will serve as a catalyst for economic growth, creating job opportunities and significantly enhancing the social, economic, cultural, and political landscape of the communities.
He recalled how the Abuja – Kaduna – road has suffered total neglect over the years. “Successive governments merely paid lip service to the reconstruction or rehabilitation of the road. Our people watched helplessly as the condition of the road worsened and innocent lives were lost”.
The President who has demonstrated commitment to address infrastructural deficits in the Northern region of Nigeria, gave the Minister the marching orders to take a critical look at the road project and work out an arrangement that will lead to the speedy completion.
“The reconstruction of this road will undoubtedly bring much-needed relief and development to our communities. For over a decade, attempts have been made to complete this essential route, but today, thanks to the unwavering commitment of the President.
“We’re witnessing the dawn of a new era. With mobilisation of the contractor and the resources allocated, we are confident that this project’ll be completed in the shortest possible time”, the Kaduna State Governor said.
The Minister at the event, assured Nigerians that the 700-kilometre (km) road will be completed within 14 months with concrete-reinforced pavement, to match the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway’s standard.
Umahi explained that the president terminated Julius Berger’s contract and awarded the project to a new firm with a proven track record, saying, “I have no regrets awarding them this job”.
He revealed that the President has also extended the Kano section by 11km to reach the Aminu Kano International Airport, making it 291km.
The Minister also disclosed that Tinubu directed the reconstructed highway be equipped with solar-powered lighting and closed circuit TV (CCTV) surveillance throughout its entire stretch.
He said the president also awarded the completion of sections 1 and 3, totaling 118 kilometers, for N252 billion, with 30 percent paid to the contractor.
The Minister who further commended Senator Sani for his relentless efforts in ensuring the project’s takeoff, described him as a smart governor who united the people of Kaduna behind Tinubu and the All Progressive Congress Party.
