Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu will inaugurate the 1000-kilometre Sokoto-Badagry Coastal Highway construction in August, according to the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi.
During a meeting in Birnin Kebbi with stakeholders, Umahi stated that the President directed him to visit Kebbi with several ministers and National Assembly members to unveil the project’s details.
“The project is the old West African Trade Route, and the processes for the commencement of the construction of the 1000km six-lane super highway are in progress,” he said.
The highway, historically part of the West African Trade Route, is progressing towards commencing construction of the six-lane super highway.
Kebbi State will host the largest section of the project’s first phase, which starts with three lanes on each side covering 258 kilometres.
Sokoto State will have 120 kilometres, extending from Illela on the border with Niger Republic to Badagry in Lagos State.
Umahi said the Sokoto-Badagry corridor includes 53 dams planned for agriculture, electricity, and enhancing trade routes with other African nations. This ambitious infrastructure project aims to boost Nigeria’s economy through improved security, tourism, transportation, and industrial growth.
Additionally, Umahi addressed other road projects in Kebbi State, expressing concern over slow progress. He said the government was committed to holding contractors accountable and ensuring quality workmanship.
“I have invited the contractor to Abuja for explanation, it has been the behaviour of International contractors to abandon work after collecting payment, we will no longer tolerate this unbecoming attitude.
“Any contractor who is given project but could not do it, the federal government will revoke the contract and re-award it to another company, we want to encourage our local contractors,” he said.
Governor Nasir Idris praised the Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway as a significant achievement of the APC administration, stating its importance for regional development and national unity.
Director Bede Obioha from Federal Highways, Bridges, and Design detailed the highway’s route and its anticipated benefits, including smoother traffic flow upon completion.
The Emir of Argungu pledged traditional leaders’ support for the project, promising community mobilisation for its successful execution.
Members of the Senate and House of Representatives Committees on Works reaffirmed legislative backing for President Tinubu’s infrastructure agenda, aiming to foster Nigeria’s socio-economic progress and industrial development.