The former Governor of Abia State and Senator representing Abia North, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, has commissioned the Arikilla Layout Road Network in Wamakko Local Government Area of Sokoto State as part of activities marking the third anniversary of Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s administration.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu praised Governor Aliyu’s infrastructure drive, including ongoing projects such as the construction of a new departure terminal at the Sultan Abubakar III International Airport, describing them as evidence of a deliberate and structured development agenda.
According to him, the pace of development under Governor Aliyu reflects a clear effort to reposition Sokoto and restore its historic status as the seat of the Caliphate.
“The governor is rebranding Sokoto and giving it the image it deserves as the seat of the Caliphate. The level of infrastructure development I have seen is impressive,” he stated.
Senator Kalu further commended the governor for commissioning multiple projects at once, describing it as evidence of tangible governance and measurable progress.
He also called for unity within the All Progressives Congress (APC), urging members to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and remain focused on development-oriented politics rather than division.
He stressed that leadership should be guided by patriotism and national interest, noting that Nigeria’s diversity should be seen as a source of strength.
“Whether in Sokoto, Abia, Lagos or anywhere else, we worship the same God. What should matter most is the development of our country and the welfare of our people,” he said.
The senator also highlighted the importance of traditional institutions in maintaining peace and social stability, calling for strengthened roles for traditional rulers in community-based conflict resolution.
He further urged Governor Ahmed Aliyu to continue promoting unity, inclusion, and good governance, while strengthening cohesion within the APC in Sokoto State.
In his remarks, the Sokoto state Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, described the project as another major milestone in his administration’s commitment to infrastructure development and the provision of essential services to the people.
He said the road network reflects his administration’s determination to provide modern infrastructure that supports urban growth, improves mobility, and enhances the quality of life of residents.
Governor Aliyu explained that road construction remains a key priority of his government due to its role in driving economic growth and promoting social development.
“Since assuming office three years ago, we have prioritised road construction and rehabilitation because we believe roads play a critical role in fostering economic prosperity and improving the lives of our people,” he said.
The Governor explained that the newly completed Arikilla Layout Road Network was designed to serve the area’s growing population and expanding economic activities.
According to him, the project will improve accessibility, reduce travel time, enhance safety, and create greater economic opportunities for residents and business owners.
“With the completion of this project, residents and business owners will enjoy improved accessibility, reduced travel time, enhanced safety, and greater economic opportunities,” he stated.
Governor Aliyu added that the project would attract further investment and contribute to the overall growth and modernisation of Sokoto State.
He stressed that road infrastructure is not merely a means of transportation but a catalyst for economic expansion, social integration, and sustainable development.
Governor Aliyu urged residents to protect and maintain the infrastructure by keeping drainage channels and road corridors free from obstruction to ensure durability and effective service delivery.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that the dividends of democracy reach every part of the state, while calling on citizens to continue supporting government programmes through cooperation and prayers.
The Governor also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and the Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at promoting national growth and development.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Nasiru Dantsoho, said the successful completion of the Arikilla Layout Road Network underscores the administration’s commitment to modern infrastructure development and urban expansion.
Dantsoho noted that the project would open up the area for residential growth, improve accessibility, increase property values, and attract investment into the state.
The Commissioner commended Governor Ahmed Aliyu for his consistent support to the ministry and his vision of transforming Sokoto through strategic infrastructure delivery.
