From Muhammad Gazali Garba
The Governor of Kebbi State, Dr. Nasir Idris, on Thursday performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of two major rural road projects in Sokoto State, reaffirming the strong relationship between the neighbouring states and the commitment of Governor Ahmad Aliyu to expanding infrastructure and improving the lives of rural communities.
The projects, flagged off as part of activities marking the third anniversary of the Ahmad Aliyu administration, are the 7.5 kilometre Kajiji–Sanyinnawal Road, awarded at a contract sum of ₦3,829,964,521.37, and the 13.5-kilometre Mandera–Darin Guru–Jabo Road, awarded at ₦4,756,771,942.89.
Speaking during the ceremony, Dr. Nasir Idris described the projects as another clear demonstration of Governor Ahmad Aliyu’s unwavering commitment to delivering meaningful dividends of democracy.
He commended the Sokoto State Governor for prioritising rural infrastructure, noting that good roads remain the backbone of agricultural development, trade, improved security, and socio-economic growth.
He described the invitation to perform the groundbreaking ceremony as a great honour and a reflection of the cordial relationship between Kebbi and Sokoto states.
The Kebbi State Governor noted that the construction of the roads would significantly improve connectivity among rural communities, reduce transportation costs, facilitate the movement of people and goods, and stimulate economic activities. He urged the benefiting communities to support the contractors and ensure the projects were protected for the benefit of present and future generations.
In his address, Governor Ahmad Aliyu said the road projects formed part of his administration’s determination to fulfil campaign promises and ensure that development reaches every corner of Sokoto State.
He explained that the construction of the roads would ease the movement of people and goods, boost agricultural production, encourage commercial activities, improve access to healthcare and education, and enhance the overall standard of living of the people.
Governor Ahmad Aliyu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to investing in critical infrastructure capable of transforming the state’s economy and improving the welfare of its citizens. He stressed that rural road construction remains one of the cardinal priorities of his government because of its direct impact on agriculture, commerce, security, and social development.
The governor further directed the contractor and consultant handling the projects to ensure strict compliance with the approved specifications and contract agreements. He emphasised that quality, professionalism, transparency, and timely completion must remain the guiding principles throughout the execution of the projects.
He also appealed to residents of the benefiting communities to cooperate fully with the contractors by providing the necessary support and safeguarding the projects against vandalism.
The Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, represented by the District Head of Tambuwal, Alhaji Ahmad Dahiru Tambuwal, commended Governor Ahmad Aliyu for sustaining the momentum of infrastructural development across the state.
He described the road projects as a major milestone that would improve the socio-economic well-being of the people and urged residents to continue supporting government policies while protecting public infrastructure.
Earlier, the Chairman Shagari Local government,Barrister Maidawa Shagari, said the projects were carefully selected to address the transportation challenges facing rural communities.
He explained that the roads would facilitate the evacuation of agricultural produce, improve access to markets, schools, and healthcare facilities, strengthen inter-community relations, and accelerate economic development in the affected areas.
He assured that the projects would be closely monitored to ensure strict adherence to quality standards and timely completion.
The Chairman of Shagari Local Government, Barrister Maidawa Shagari, expressed profound appreciation to Governor Ahmad Aliyu for approving and flagging off the road projects, describing them as a historic intervention for the people of the area.
He said the construction of the Kajiji–Sanyinnawa and Mandera–Darin Guru–Jabo roads would address decades of transportation challenges, improve access to markets, schools, and healthcare facilities, and boost agricultural and commercial activities.
Barrister Maidawa assured the state government of the full support and cooperation of the people of Shagari Local Government towards the successful execution and protection of the projects, while pledging the council’s commitment to complementing the government’s development efforts.
The groundbreaking ceremony attracted top government officials, members of the National and State Assemblies, traditional rulers, political leaders, community representatives, and other dignitaries from within and outside Sokoto State.
The event marked another significant milestone in the Ahmad Aliyu administration’s drive to expand rural infrastructure, promote inclusive development, and improve the quality of life for the people of Sokoto State.
