The federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to infrastructural development despite Nigeria’s prevailing economic challenges.
Minister of State for Works, Muhammad Goronyo, stated this on Saturday during an inspection tour of the ongoing construction of the Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway alongside the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, in Sokoto and Kebbi states.
He described the project as a transformative initiative that will not only ease transportation but also boost trade and investment across West Africa.
The minister explained that the superhighway, which spans over 1,000 kilometres through Sokoto, Kebbi, Niger, and other states before terminating in Badagry, Lagos, will serve as a critical link between Nigeria and neighbouring countries such as Niger and Mali.
“This project is not just for Sokoto, Kebbi, or Niger States, it is for the entire country, as it cuts across different regions before reaching Badagry in Lagos,” Goronyo said.
The minister, who described the superhighway as a “game changer,” appealed to host communities to support and protect the project.
“I appeal to the benefiting communities to look at what is being done and reward the President for his dedication to this region. We are not coming back here to campaign. Once this project is completed, it will speak for itself,” the minister stated.
Goronyo also commended Umahi for his dedication to President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in advancing infrastructure that will accelerate Nigeria’s economic growth.
The Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway is one of the flagship road projects under the Tinubu administration’s push to modernise Nigeria’s transport network.
Experts have argued that a functional superhighway running from Sokoto through the North-West and North-Central down to Lagos would decongest existing routes, reduce travel time, and strengthen Nigeria’s competitiveness under the African Continental Free Trade Area.