BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has ended the 51-year frustration experienced by road users in Plateau State by flagging off the rehabilitation of Babban Lamba–Sharam Road, Phase II, spanning 38.625 kilometres.
The road, which stretches from Babban-Dungun Village to Sharam, with an additional two-kilometre spur linking Dungun to Kwai, was taunted with frequent potholes since 1975 before the eventual award of the contract by the Federal Executive Council, FEC.
Tinubu restated his intentions to deliver critical infrastructure that promotes economic growth, regional connectivity, national development, and integration, adding that the project formed part of the present administration’s infrastructure renewal programme implemented across six geopolitical zones.
Represented by the National Chairman of the All-Progressives Congress, APC, Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, he described the project as a strategic investment that will drive economic growth, create jobs, boost tourism and culture, and strengthen regional integration.
Yilwatda disclosed that the road is a strategic route to economic development, as it links the North Central, North East, South East, and South-South zones, urging the contractor, Messrs Decency Associates, Nigeria, Limited, to facilitate timely completion of the project while maintaining the highest standards of quality.
He highlighted the historical importance of the area 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.
Yilwatda appealed to the contractor to promote local content by prioritising the employment of indigenes along the project’s corridor throughout the construction period.
The APC National Chairman assured the Governor and good people of Plateau State that he would personally convey the state's gratitude and goodwill to President Tinubu, affirming that he has a personal interest in the road rehabilitation, given that it has remained in a deplorable condition since 1975.
Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi appreciated the Ngas community for conferring a prestigious chieftaincy title on him, adding that the honour made him a son of the soil and pledged to give the project special attention until the successful completion.
While highlighting the modest achievements of the Administration in the road sector as enshrined in the Renewed Hope Agenda, Umahi welcomed constructive criticism, stressing that he remains accountable to Nigerians and open to objective public scrutiny.
He cautioned against unfounded attacks, saying that genuine criticism strengthens governance and promotes better service delivery.
Umahi described the four Legacy Road Projects as catalysts for growth and prosperity, and ‘a major bold step no past administration had dared to take,’ describing President Tinubu as God-sent, a bridge-builder and visionary leader.
He appealed to plateau natives to support the renewed vigour of the present administration in changing the landscape of Nigeria’s road sector, which is a clear manifestation of a government that truly cares for its citizens.
The Minister informed that no part of the country would talk about marginalisation in the provision of road and bridge infrastructure, as President Tinubu is a leader for all Nigerians.
Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang commended President Tinubu and the Minister of Works for prioritising critical road infrastructure nationwide, describing the project as a landmark intervention that would stimulate economic activities, improve connectivity, reduce travel time, and unlock new investment opportunities across Plateau State and beyond.
He drummed support for President Tinubu's commitment to infrastructure development, stating that the people of the State deeply appreciated the Federal Government's intervention.
The Chairman, Senate Committee on Works, Senator Allwell Heacho Onyesoh pledged sustained funding and proper oversight for the sector across the country.
Chairman, House Committee on Works, Hon. Akin Alabi commended the President and the Minister for their uncommon strides in delivering durable road projects nationwide.
The Senator representing Plateau South, Sen. Simon Lalong, appreciated the President for extending major infrastructure projects to Plateau State and the North Central region generally.
He pledged the continued support and prayers of the people of the state for the administration.
At the event, the paramount ruler of Ngas land, Ngolong Ngas, His Majesty Nde Jika conferred a traditional title on the Minister of Works in recognition of his outstanding contributions to infrastructure development in his domain.
The Ministry remains committed to delivering durable, safe, and accessible roads and associated infrastructure across Nigeria in support of sustainable economic growth and national development.
Comments
Post a Comment