President Bola Tinubu has officially flagged off the rehabilitation of two major federal roads in Borno State valued at N137 billion, describing the projects as critical to improving security, trade and economic activities in Nigeria's North-East region.
The projects include the rehabilitation of the 49.15-kilometre Bama–Banki Road and the Dikwa–Gamboru–Ngala Road, both of which link Nigeria to neighbouring Cameroon and serve as key regional trade corridors.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the inauguration on Saturday, President Tinubu said the road projects would help restore trans-Saharan trade routes connecting Nigeria with Cameroon and Chad, while strengthening security operations in areas previously affected by insurgency.
According to the President, improved road infrastructure will enhance the movement of people, goods and security personnel, noting that accessible roads are essential for economic growth and national security.
President Tinubu said the projects reflect his administration's commitment to delivering infrastructure that improves the lives of Nigerians and supports long-term development.
President of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, whose company is executing the projects under the Federal Government's Roads Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme, disclosed that the company is currently handling 12 major road projects spanning over 1,000 kilometres across the country's six geopolitical zones.
He said the projects, valued at about N3 trillion, are expected to stimulate economic activities, improve security, facilitate military operations and attract investments to the affected regions.
Minister of Works, David Umahi, explained that the contracts were initially awarded in 2021 at a combined cost of about N55 billion but experienced delays due to security challenges. He noted that following a review, the Bama–Banki Road is now valued at N70 billion, while the Dikwa–Gamboru–Ngala Road stands at N67 billion.
Umahi stated that both roads would be constructed using concrete pavement technology to ensure greater durability, reduced maintenance costs and a longer service life. He added that the projects also include the construction and maintenance of bridges, installation of road furniture, traffic safety facilities and other supporting infrastructure.
The minister further explained that the Dikwa–Gamboru–Ngala Road forms part of the Trunk A3 Highway linking Port Harcourt through several states to the Cameroon border, making it a strategic national transport corridor.
Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, described the projects as vital to the state's recovery and economic revitalisation, saying they would strengthen commercial activities with neighbouring Chad, Cameroon and the Republic of Niger while supporting ongoing peace and reconstruction efforts.
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