By Fatima Haruna (9News Nigeria Maiduguri)
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday flagged off two major highway projects in Borno State, describing them as vital to restoring economic activity, trade, and security in the North-East after over a decade of insurgency.
The President, represented by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, performed the groundbreaking for the 49.55-kilometre Dikwa–Gamboru Ngala Road and the 49.15-kilometre Bama–Banki Road along the Maiduguri–Gamboru Ngala corridor.
Why the roads matters
Federal and state officials said the two highways are economic lifelines for the region because they enhance open cross-border trade. Both roads serve as key gateways to neighbouring African countries. Officials say they will bolster international commerce and ease the movement of agricultural produce from Borno’s farming communities to markets.
Similarly, the two roads would strengthen security activities in the region.
The Bama–Banki Corridor was described as a “top route” for agriculture, movement, and national security operations. Reconnecting these areas is expected to improve troop mobility and restore confidence in communities recovering from insurgency.
The roads would also reconnect communities along the area.
The Dikwa–Gamboru Ngala road, according to the Vice President, belongs to “the same vision of reconnecting communities and restoring economic confidence across Borno State.
Speaking at the ceremony, VP Shettima said infrastructure is a central priority of the Tinubu administration.
“His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has made infrastructure a central priority. This is what Mr. President promised Nigerians, and I’m here today to affirm our readiness to redeem the promise,” he stated.
Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, said the projects will be executed in two phases and are expected to be completed within six months.
In his remarks, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, described by the Vice President as “one of the best-performing governors in the federation,” said infrastructure remains the foundation for development.
“Since assuming office, our administration has prioritised the rehabilitation and construction of roads, schools, hospitals, water facilities, and other critical infrastructure,” Zulum said.
He pledged close monitoring to ensure quality and value for money, and appealed for a waiver to regulate heavy-duty trucks on the roads to protect the investment.
The event was attended by the Deputy Governor, federal and state lawmakers, traditional rulers, and other dignitaries.
