President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has flagged off the rehabilitation of the Bama–Banki and Dikwa–Gamboru Ngala roads in Borno State as part of the Federal Government's efforts to strengthen security, improve regional connectivity and stimulate economic growth in the North-East.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the flag-off ceremony, Tinubu described the projects as strategic investments aimed at restoring critical infrastructure, promoting cross-border trade and supporting the socio-economic recovery of communities affected by insurgency.
The President said the roads would improve access to neighbouring Cameroon and the Republic of Chad, creating new opportunities for regional commerce and trans-Saharan trade while enhancing the movement of people, goods and services.
He noted that the projects also align with his administration's commitment to rebuilding critical infrastructure to drive sustainable development and national integration.
Tinubu urged stakeholders to work closely with communities in the North-East to ensure the successful execution of the projects, assuring Nigerians that his administration would continue investing in infrastructure capable of stimulating economic growth.
The two road contracts were awarded to Dangote Industries Nigeria Limited under the Federal Government's Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme, with Dantata and Sawoe Nigeria Limited serving as subcontractor.
The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, described the projects as another milestone in the administration's infrastructure renewal agenda, noting that they form part of President Tinubu's four legacy infrastructure projects spread across the country's six geopolitical zones.
According to Umahi, the roads will improve regional connectivity, reduce travel time, facilitate trade and strengthen economic integration with neighbouring countries.
Also speaking, the Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, said the projects would deliver significant economic, security, healthcare and tourism benefits, describing them as strategic investments that would improve livelihoods and enhance the quality of life of residents.
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Senator Allwell Onyesoh, and Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Works, Hon. Akin Alabi, commended the collaboration between the National Assembly and the Ministry of Works, pledging continued legislative support for the successful completion of the projects.
President and Chief Executive Officer of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, described the Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme as a transformative model for financing critical infrastructure.
He disclosed that the company is currently executing 12 road projects worth about ₦3 trillion under the scheme and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting national development through additional infrastructure investments.
Dangote said quality roads and bridges stimulate economic activities, attract investment and promote national prosperity, while commending Umahi for his commitment to infrastructure delivery.
Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, described the road projects as vital to the economic recovery and security of the North-East, noting that they would strengthen commercial and social ties with Cameroon and Chad while promoting peace and economic activities across the region.
He expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for his continued support for Borno State and the North-East.
Speaking on behalf of the Borno State Council of Traditional Rulers, the Chairman of the Council, Alhaji Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanemi, represented by the Shehu of Dikwa, pledged the support of traditional institutions for the successful execution of the projects.
The rehabilitation of the Bama–Banki and Dikwa–Gamboru Ngala roads is expected to improve mobility, strengthen national security, facilitate cross-border trade, attract investment and accelerate economic development across the North-East.