MAIDUGURI — Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, on Monday unveiled 30 trucks to tackle road construction challenges worsened by insecurity in the state.

Speaking at the Government House in Maiduguri, Zulum said the trucks will boost the capacity of the Ministry of Works, the State Road Maintenance Agency, and departments to deliver projects.

He noted that insecurity remains a obstacle, driving up costs and discouraging contractors within Nigeria and abroad from taking up projects.

The governor explained that insurance companies often refuse to cover projects in areas due to terrain and security concerns, leaving the state government with options.

This prompted the decision to strengthen the state’s construction capacity.

As part of that effort, Zulum disclosed that the state has built a quarry plant in Pulka at a cost of over N3 billion.

The plant has a capacity of 120 tons per hour and will supply construction materials, for roads.

He listed road projects that will benefit from the trucks, including routes linking Maiduguri to Monguno, Baga, Gamboru Ngala, Damboa, and Bama to Mubi, among others.

Zulum added that equipment has been procured and promised to acquire an additional 30 trucks before the end of his administration.

Abubakar Ali Baware, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works and Housing, said the 30 trucks and machines will increase the pace of road construction, rehabilitation, and maintenance.

He noted that the equipment has revived the ministry’s labour unit and is contributing to road projects across the state.