By Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto
Governor of Kebbi State, Nasir Idris, on Thursday commissioned the 14.5-kilometre Zawaiyya–Unguwar Maidaji–Gwangwan Dikko Road in Tambuwal Local Government Area of Sokoto State, describing investment in road infrastructure as a key driver of economic growth and rural development.
The road project, completed at a cost of ₦4.53 billion, is part of the infrastructure development programme of the Governor Ahmad Aliyu administration under its Nine-Point Smart Innovative Agenda, aimed at improving connectivity and boosting socio-economic development across the state.
The commissioning ceremony attracted government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders and development stakeholders from across the North-West.
During the visit, Idris also performed the foundation-laying ceremony for two additional road projects in Shagari Local Government Area—the 7.5-kilometre Kajiji–Sanyinnawal Road and the 13.5-kilometre Mandera–Darin Guru–Jabo Road.
Speaking at the event, the Kebbi governor thanked the Sokoto State Government for the invitation, describing it as a reflection of the long-standing historical, cultural and economic ties between the two neighbouring states.
He said road infrastructure remains one of the most effective tools for promoting inclusive development, particularly in rural communities where access to markets, schools and healthcare services depends largely on reliable transportation.
“Roads have a direct impact on the well-being of our people. Their importance cannot be overstated because they facilitate access to markets, schools, healthcare facilities and other social services,” Idris said.
He described rural roads as the backbone of national development, noting that improved connectivity enhances agricultural productivity, promotes trade and creates opportunities for economic expansion.
Idris commended Governor Ahmad Aliyu for what he called a bold and strategic investment in road infrastructure across Sokoto State, saying the projects would improve residents’ standard of living and stimulate economic activities.
According to him, the predominantly agrarian nature of communities in Sokoto and Kebbi states makes rural road construction particularly important, as farmers require efficient transport links to move produce to markets and reduce post-harvest losses.
He urged residents of the benefiting communities to protect public infrastructure, stressing that development projects are funded with public resources and should be preserved for future generations.
“We must cultivate the habit of protecting public assets because they belong to all of us,” he said.
In his remarks, Governor Ahmad Aliyu commended his Kebbi counterpart for honouring the invitation at short notice, describing the visit as a demonstration of the cordial relationship between the two states.
Aliyu said the newly commissioned road would improve access to markets, expand economic opportunities and enhance the movement of people and goods across the benefiting communities.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustaining infrastructure development, disclosing that several road projects had been completed and commissioned, while others were at different stages of execution.
The governor also pledged continued support for the policies and programmes of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which he said are aimed at advancing national development and improving the welfare of Nigerians.
