…As Works Minister Applauds Gombe Governor On Quality Infrastructure Projects
In line with its “Year of Action” agenda, the Federal Government has flagged off the reconstruction and dualization of the 125-kilometre Gombe- Biu highway, valued at N1.245 trillion.
The flag-off ceremony, held at Liji, in Gombe, was performed by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, alonside the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The project, which will be executed by Hi-Tech Construction Company using rigid pavement technology, is regarded as a historic breakthrough after decades of failed attempts by previous administrations to rehabilitate the critical road corridor.
Speaking during the ceremony, Governor Inuwa Yahaya described the Gombe-Biu highway as a vital economic and social corridor linking the Northeast to other parts of Nigeria and neighbouring West African countries, emphasizing that the project would significantly enhance trade, transportation, security and regional integration.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the project, describing it as a bold demonstration of commitment to infrastructure renewal and national development.
“We will work closely with the Federal Government, the Ministry of Works, and the contractors to ensure timely delivery of this project according to the highest standards so that it will serve generations to come,” the Governor stated.
He added that despite prevailing economic challenges, the Tinubu administration remains committed to executing people-oriented projects capable of improving livelihoods and stimulating economic growth across the country.
recalled that the highway was originally constructed in 1962 and resurfaced in 1976, noting that successive governments had been unable to reconstruct the road despite its strategic importance to the Northeast and the nation at large.
The Governor also appreciated the Minister of Works and members of the National Assembly for their support and appealed for sustained funding and legislative oversight to ensure the successful execution of the project.
Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya stated that the people of Gombe State are profoundly grateful to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to the development of the state and the Northeast region, assuring that they will reciprocate the gesture with total support and massive votes in the 2027 general elections.
In his remarks, the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, described the dualization project as President Tinubu’s “Sallah gift” to the people of Gombe, Borno, and the entire Northeast region.
Engr. Umahi praised Governor Inuwa Yahaya for impactful leadership and unprecedented infrastructural development in Gombe State, referring to him as “a silent achiever and a man of class.”
The minister disclosed that the project scope will be expanded from 125 kilometres to 139 kilometres following the governor’s request to align the road through the Northern Bypass instead of the township route, a move aimed at improving traffic flow and enhancing economic activities around key commercial hubs.
He further noted that the administration of President Tinubu is prioritizing legacy infrastructure projects designed to unlock economic opportunities and improve the quality of life for Nigerians.
Chairmen of the Senate and House of Representatives Committees on Works who attended the event commended President Tinubu for approving the project under the Renewed Hope Agenda, and praised Governor Inuwa Yahaya and the Minister of Works for their commitment to quality infrastructure delivery.
The Member representing Yamaltu/Deba Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Inuwa Garba, expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for approving the project and commended Governor Inuwa Yahaya for his sustained advocacy, strategic partnership and steadfast commitment toward the realization of this critical infrastructure.
The Emir of Yamaltu, Alhaji Abubakar Aliyu, expressed gratitude to the President for addressing a critical infrastructural challenge affecting the region for decades. He assured of safety of the contractors and their equipment.
Earlier, the Managing Director of Hi-Tech Construction Company, Mr. Danny Abboud assured the Federal Government and the people of the Northeast that the project would be executed according to specification and within the agreed timeline.
