lIllela, Sokoto State — President Bola Tinubu on Thursday launched the groundbreaking of the monumental Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway, a 1,068-kilometer project aimed at transforming Nigeria’s infrastructure and economic landscape.
The ceremony, held in Illela Local Government Area of Sokoto State, saw Governor Ahmad Aliyu of Sokoto representing the president, underscoring Tinubu’s commitment to his Renewed Hope Agenda for nationwide development.
According to Tinubu, the superhighway marks a “bold vision” to advance Nigeria’s infrastructure, boost connectivity, and stimulate the economy. “This project is not just about building roads,” said Tinubu. “It is a blueprint for the development priorities that align with Nigeria’s population growth and economic goals.”
Minister of Works, Sen. David Umahi, elaborated on the project’s significance as one of four legacy highways under the Renewed Hope Agenda, each designed to enhance Nigeria’s road and train networks across all six geopolitical zones. In addition to the Sokoto-Badagry superhighway, these projects include the 750km Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road Corridor, the Calabar-Abuja superhighway, and the 482km Trans-Saharan route.
“The Sokoto-Badagry road is a legacy dream that dates back 48 years to the Shagari administration,” Umahi said, emphasising its significance.
“It’s a testament to President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to economic growth and enhancing social infrastructure for all citizens.”
He also noted that this advanced concrete road will be equipped with modern facilities, including lighting, CCTV cameras, medical and security stations, all geared towards ensuring safe and responsive travel.
Scheduled for phased completion with the first segment by 2027, the Sokoto-Badagry road covers 120 kilometers in Sokoto, 258 kilometers in Kebbi, with the remaining stretches spanning Niger, Kwara, and additional states. Umahi assured that experienced contractors with international expertise were engaged under stringent procurement standards to deliver the project on schedule and to specification.
Emphasising the scope of Tinubu’s infrastructural goals, Umahi revealed that the administration inherited over 18,900 kilometers of ongoing road projects across Nigeria, totaling more than 2,000 contracts, and requiring over N16 trillion for completion. The Tinubu government is committed to completing key projects, including the Sokoto-Kaduna road.
Also present at the event, the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III, urged the government to prioritise road safety as a means to reduce accidents and curb criminal activities. He further recommended exploring railway construction as a sustainable transport alternative, enhancing safety and economic benefits.
Other dignitaries at the event included Minister of State Works, Bello Goronyo, Minister of Labour-designate Maigari Dingyadi, Minister of Budget and National Planning Atiku Bagudu, and Senator Adamu Aliero, among others.
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