By Becky Momodu
The removal of fuel subsidy has created the fiscal space for massive infrastructure development across Nigeria, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, has said.
Umahi stated this during the flag-off of the reconstruction and dualisation of the 401-kilometre Lambata–Bida–Mokwa–Makera–Kontagora Road in Niger State.
The project, valued at ₦1.83 trillion, is being financed by the Dangote Group through the Federal Government’s tax-credit financing model.
Represented by Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, President Bola Tinubu officially flagged off the project in Bida on Tuesday.
The Minister explained that the Federal Government had initiated approximately 5,500 kilometres of road projects across the North-Central region, with Niger State accounting for more than 1,000 kilometres.
He said the administration’s infrastructure investments reflected its commitment to improving transportation, strengthening economic activities and connecting communities across the country.
Umahi also highlighted the adoption of continuously reinforced concrete pavement (CRCP) technology for the road project, describing it as a durable and climate-resilient construction method.
He urged Nigerians to support Tinubu’s re-election bid, arguing that continuity would enable the President to complete the ongoing infrastructure projects nationwide.
Speaking at the ceremony, Bago commended Tinubu for prioritising infrastructure development, describing the road project as a significant milestone in improving connectivity and economic opportunities in Niger State.
The governor also pledged to mobilise support for the President and the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Meanwhile, the Director of Highways, Construction and Rehabilitation, David Yiltong, said the road would improve security, ease the movement of people and goods, and expand access to markets and agricultural communities.
The highway begins at Lambata and passes through Bida, Mokwa and Makera before terminating at Kontagora, serving as an important transportation corridor for commercial and agricultural activities.
The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Allwell Onyesoh, described the project as part of Tinubu’s deliberate policy to expand infrastructure development across the country.
Similarly, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Works, Akin Alabi, said the highway would strengthen transportation links between the northern and southern parts of the country.
A representative of the Dangote Group, Mansur Ahmed, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to infrastructure development, saying the project would open up communities, create employment opportunities and stimulate commercial activities.
He estimated the group’s investment in road sector development nationwide at more than ₦5 trillion.
Abuja Times reports that the project is expected to improve regional connectivity, facilitate the movement of agricultural produce, reduce transportation difficulties and strengthen economic activities along the corridor.
