The long-awaited Superhighway project, initially conceived 48 years ago, is finally set to be implemented under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The project has garnered commendations from various stakeholders, including the Minister of Works, Engr. Nweze David Umahi; Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris; Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu; and Senator Adamu Aliero.
Speaking at the stakeholders’ engagement meeting in Birnin Kebbi, Minister of Works, Engr. Nweze David Umahi, outlined the details of the superhighway, which spans a total of 1000 kilometers. The highway will begin in Ilela, Sokoto State, covering 120 kilometers through Argungu, Bunza, Kamba, and ending at Bida town in Niger State. The project is divided into phases, with the first and second phases covering Sokoto (120 km) and Kebbi (258 km), respectively.
The highway will continue from Bida, passing through Kwara and Oyo states, and culminate at Badagry in Lagos State. This route revives the historic trans-Sahara trade route and is expected to boost agriculture, commerce, and security in the region.
Engr. Umahi highlighted the benefits of the project, emphasizing its potential to enhance local economies and improve infrastructure. He called on the residents of Kebbi and Sokoto states to support the project, ensuring that any necessary compensations are handled fairly with local communities.
Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, described the project as critical, noting that President Tinubu instructed cabinet members to secure funding for the project despite global economic challenges. Bagudu emphasized the administration’s commitment to implementing meaningful projects for the benefit of current and future generations.
Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris, also praised President Tinubu for initiating the project in Kebbi State. He stressed the importance of incorporating local input into the project to ensure fairness and direct benefits for the communities involved. Governor Idris also requested the Minister’s intervention in addressing other road projects within the state, such as the Koko-Mahuta-Dabai and Malando-Wara roads.
Senator Adamu Aliero, representing Kebbi Central Senatorial District, expressed his full support for the project and reiterated the need to address additional road issues within the state. The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Senator Barinade Npigi, assured continuous legislative support for the presidency to implement significant projects for Nigerians. Similarly, House of Representatives Chairman Committee on Works, Hon. Hakeem Alabi, pledged legislative backing to ensure appropriate budget allocations for the projects.
The Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Samaila Muhammad Mera, speaking on behalf of other traditional rulers in Kebbi State, promised community support for the project. He urged caution in constructing dams to prevent flooding in local areas.
Former Governor of Kebbi State, Alhaji Saidu Nasamu Dakingari, lauded President Tinubu for commencing the project from Kebbi State, noting its potential to transform the region significantly.
The commencement of the superhighway project marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s infrastructure development, promising to enhance connectivity, economic growth, and regional integration.
