By Becky Momodu
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has flagged off the rehabilitation of the Bama–Banki and Dikwa–Gamboru Ngala roads in Borno State, describing the projects as strategic investments aimed at strengthening security, enhancing regional trade and accelerating economic growth in the North-East.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the flag-off ceremony, the President said the projects demonstrate his administration’s commitment to rebuilding critical infrastructure that will improve connectivity, promote regional integration and support sustainable development.
He noted that the roads would enhance access to neighbouring Cameroon and the Republic of Chad, opening up new opportunities for trans-Saharan trade and cross-border commerce.
According to the President, the projects will also improve the movement of people, goods and services, strengthen security and support the socio-economic recovery of communities affected by insurgency.
He urged stakeholders to work closely with communities in the North-East to ensure the successful execution of the projects, while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to sustained investment in infrastructure to drive economic growth and national development.
The road projects were awarded to Dangote Industries Nigeria Limited under the Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme, with Dantata and Sawoe Nigeria Limited serving as the subcontractor.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, described the projects as another milestone in the Federal Government’s infrastructure renewal programme.
He said the roads form part of the Tinubu administration’s four legacy infrastructure projects across the six geopolitical zones and are designed to improve regional connectivity, reduce travel time, facilitate trade and strengthen economic integration with neighbouring countries.
The Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, said the projects would deliver significant economic, security, healthcare and tourism benefits, describing them as strategic investments that would improve livelihoods and promote regional integration.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Senator Allwell Onyesoh, and the Chairman of the House Committee on Works, Hon. Akin Alabi, commended the collaboration between the National Assembly and the Federal Ministry of Works, pledging continued legislative support for the successful completion of the projects.
President and Chief Executive of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, described the Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme as a transformative initiative for financing critical infrastructure. He disclosed that the company is executing 12 road projects worth about ₦3 trillion under the scheme and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting national development through quality infrastructure.
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, welcomed the projects, describing them as vital to the region’s economic recovery and security. He said the roads would strengthen commercial ties with Cameroon and the Republic of Chad while boosting peace and economic activities across the North-East.
On behalf of the Borno State Council of Traditional Rulers, the Shehu of Dikwa, representing the Chairman of the Council, Alhaji Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Al-Amin El-Kanemi, assured the Federal Government of the traditional institution’s support, expressing confidence that the projects would bring lasting socio-economic benefits to the people.
The Federal Government said the rehabilitation of the two strategic roads underscores its commitment to renewing critical infrastructure, improving national security, expanding regional trade and creating new opportunities for sustainable economic growth.