Tinubu flags off N137bn road rehabilitation projects in Borno

President Bola Tinubu has launched N137 billion road rehabilitation projects in Borno State, emphasizing their importance for boosting trade, agricultural activities, and security operations upon completion. The initiative focuses on the Bama–Banki Road and the Dikwa–Gamboru–Ngala Road, located in Nigeria's North-East and bordering Cameroon.

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Bad roads are also a security risk. A corridor that is difficult for citizens to travel is equally difficult for security personnel to patrol and protect.

Represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu highlighted the roads' critical role in reviving trans-Saharan trade with Chad and Cameroon, which has suffered due to insurgency. He noted that improved roads enhance security by making it easier for both citizens and security personnel to travel and patrol.

Alhaji Aliko Dangote, whose company is executing the projects, stated that his group is involved in 12 major road projects nationwide worth approximately N3 trillion under the Federal Government’s Roads Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme. He believes these specific roads will stimulate the economy, aid military operations, improve security, and attract investment.

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Promises acquire meaning when citizens can drive on the roads, move their goods, reach their families and live with greater security.

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, explained that these projects were first awarded in 2021 for about N55 billion but faced delays due to insecurity. The contracts were subsequently reviewed, with the Bama–Banki Road now costing N70 billion and the Dikwa–Gamboru–Ngala Road N67 billion. Umahi added that the roads will utilize durable concrete pavement technology for longevity and value. Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum also acknowledged the projects' significance.

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The Bama–Banki and Dikwa–Gamboru–Ngala roads would open up the economy, facilitate military operations, improve security and attract investment.