The Federal Government has officially flagged off the reconstruction and dualisation of the Lambata-Bida-Mokwa-Makera-Kontagora highway in Niger State, with the project valued at ₦1.5 trillion.
The Minister of Works, David Umahi, described the project as a major infrastructure investment and called on Nigerians to support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027 to enable the administration to complete its ongoing projects.
The flag-off ceremony took place in Bida, where Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago represented the President. Bago expressed confidence that the state would deliver the highest number of votes for Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.
Umahi disclosed that the Federal Government had initiated approximately 5,500 kilometres of road projects nationwide, including 1,055 kilometres in Niger State. He described the highway as potentially the administration’s fifth legacy road project, highlighting the use of reinforced concrete pavement for improved durability.
According to the minister, 162 kilometres of roads and 115 metres of bridges have been completed across the North-Central region. He also commended Bago’s administration for its infrastructure projects, reportedly including more than 300 kilometres of roads, five flyovers and an underpass.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the project demonstrated the government’s commitment to infrastructure development and the reforms being implemented under Tinubu’s administration.
Also speaking at the ceremony, Mansir Ahmed, identified as the President’s Special Adviser and Dangote Group chief executive, said construction would commence at four locations. He explained that the project would use concrete pavement rather than asphalt and was expected to improve the movement of agricultural produce, promote commerce and create employment opportunities.
The project is also expected to strengthen connectivity between communities and support economic activities along the highway corridor.
Representatives of the National Assembly’s works committees and the Etsu Nupe, Yahaya Abubakar, welcomed the development, expressing hope that the road would improve transportation and stimulate economic growth.
The highway project forms part of the Federal Government’s wider infrastructure programme, with its successful completion expected to benefit road users, farmers, traders and businesses across Niger State and neighbouring areas.
However, residents and road users will be watching closely to see how quickly construction progresses and whether the project delivers the promised improvements in road safety, travel time and economic activity.
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