Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto
The Sokoto State Government has entered partnership with the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project, RAAMP, and the World Bank to reconstruct the 7.5-kilometre Dange-Wababe-Fajaldu Road in Dange-Shuni Local Government Area at a cost of ₦5,330,954,918.
Former deputy governor, Barrister Mukhtar Shagari, performed the flag-off ceremony and described the project as a strategic intervention to revive rural connectivity abandoned for over a decade.
Shagari said the partnership demonstrated confidence in Governor Ahmad Aliyu’s administration and its commitment to infrastructure-driven development. He noted that the collaboration with RAAMP and the World Bank was key to unlocking funding for neglected rural roads.
“The road will improve transportation, facilitate movement of agricultural produce, and boost commercial activities across the corridor,” Shagari stated. He added that residents would gain easier access to markets, schools and healthcare facilities.
The former Minister and current Chairman, Governing Board of NIWA, commended Governor Aliyu for prioritising rural infrastructure. He said investments in roads, education, healthcare, agriculture and water supply had significantly improved living conditions in Sokoto State.
He stressed that quality road infrastructure was critical to strengthening the rural economy and enhancing security operations. According to him, good roads would improve emergency response and aid rapid deployment of security personnel.
Governor Aliyu said the partnership with RAAMP and the World Bank underscored his administration’s focus on inclusive development and agricultural transformation. He stated that road construction remained a top priority since he assumed office.
The governor recalled that the Dange-Wababe-Fajaldu Road had not received attention since the administration of former Governor Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko. He said difficult terrain and years of neglect had left several stretches impassable.
Special Adviser on Rural Roads, Malami Muhammad Galadanci, revealed that over 1,000 kilometres of rural roads were currently being executed across Sokoto State through similar partnerships. He said the investment had expanded access to remote communities and boosted agricultural productivity.
Shagari urged the contractor to adhere to approved specifications and complete the project within schedule. He also called on benefiting communities to protect the road from vandalism and take ownership for sustainability.
The ceremony was attended by APC leader Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, Deputy Governor Idris Gobir, SSG Alhaji Muhammad Bello Sifawa, commissioners, LG chairmen and traditional rulers. District Head of Kilgori, Muhammad Jabbi Kilgori, who represented the Sultan of Sokoto, commended the initiative and prayed for its successful completion.