- Tinubu launched N137bn road projects in Borno
- The roads are expected to improve trade and security
- The projects will also strengthen links with neighbouring countries
President Bola Tinubu has inaugurated road rehabilitation projects worth N137 billion in Borno State, describing the initiative as a major step toward improving commerce, agriculture and security across the North East.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that the projects cover the reconstruction of the Bama Banki Road and the Dikwa Gamboru Ngala Road, both of which connect communities near Nigeria’s border with Cameroon.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented the President at the ceremony on Saturday, said the road network would help revive cross border trade with Cameroon and Chad, which has suffered years of disruption due to insurgency.
According to Tinubu, reliable road infrastructure is essential for economic growth and national security, noting that poor roads not only affect businesses and residents but also make it harder for security agencies to respond effectively to threats.
He said the government remains committed to delivering projects that improve the daily lives of Nigerians by making transportation safer, easier and more efficient.
President of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, said his company is executing the projects under the Federal Government’s Roads Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme.
He revealed that the company is currently constructing 12 major highways spanning more than 1,000 kilometres across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, with the combined projects valued at about N3 trillion.
Dangote expressed confidence that the Bama Banki and Dikwa Gamboru Ngala roads would stimulate economic activities, strengthen security operations, support military movements and encourage private investment in the region.
Minister of Works David Umahi explained that the road contracts were initially awarded in 2021 for about N55 billion but faced delays because of the security situation in the area.
He said the contracts were later reviewed, bringing the Bama Banki Road project to N70 billion and the Dikwa Gamboru Ngala Road to N67 billion.
Umahi added that the roads would be built with concrete pavement to ensure greater durability, reduced maintenance costs and a longer service life.
The projects will also include bridges, traffic safety installations, road furniture and other supporting infrastructure.
He noted that the Dikwa Gamboru Ngala Road is part of the Trunk A3 highway, which links Port Harcourt to the Cameroon border through several major cities across the country.
According to the minister, the completed roads will improve the transportation of agricultural products, expand commercial activities, enhance mobility and provide easier access for security personnel.
Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum welcomed the projects, describing them as vital to the state’s reconstruction efforts. He said the improved roads would strengthen economic ties with neighbouring Cameroon, Chad and the Republic of Niger while accelerating development across the region.
