Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, has applauded President Bola Tinubu’s legacy projects like the ongoing Sokoto-Badagary Super Highway project.
Governor Zulum made the commendation at the official laying foundation for the upgrade of Illela International Market in Sokoto State.
He described the road construction as a landmark infrastructure project with enormous economic potential in the country.
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According to him, the super-highway would significantly improve connectivity between northern and southern Nigeria, facilitate the movement of goods and services, reduce transportation costs, and enhance regional trade and economic integration.
The Governor stated that the project would complement the development of strategic commercial centres such as the Illela International Market and further strengthen Nigeria’s position as a leading trade hub in West Africa.
He further commended the Sokoto State Government under the leadership of Governor Ahmed Aliyu for investing in the development of the market, describing the project as timely, strategic, and visionary.
G9vernor Zulum noted that the upgrade of the grain, livestock, and abattoir sections of the market was particularly significant, given Illela’s position as a major gateway for trade between Nigeria and the Republic of Niger.
“The decision of the Sokoto State Government to invest in the development of an international market at this location is both timely and visionary,” Governor Zulum said.
The Borno governor observed that Illela has long served as a major route for the movement of agricultural produce, livestock, and other commodities, making it one of the most vibrant commercial centres in the North-West region.
Commercial Hub
He expressed confidence that the upgraded market would evolve into a major commercial hub serving Sokoto State, neighbouring states, and countries across West Africa.
Governor Zulum stated that livestock traded in Illela already supplies major markets across Nigeria, including Lagos, underscoring the strategic importance of the market to the national economy.
He explained that the modernisation of the facility would improve operational efficiency, facilitate trade, reduce transaction costs, and increase income opportunities for traders, farmers, transporters, and other stakeholders.
The Borno governor commended RAAMP, the World Bank, the Federal Government, and the Sokoto State Government for their collaboration on the project.
He described it as a demonstration of what can be achieved when governments and development partners work together towards a common objective.
The Governor stressed that the success of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) would depend largely on the availability of modern markets, efficient transportation networks, and supportive government policies.
According to him, projects such as the Illela International Market upgrade would position Nigeria to take full advantage of emerging regional trade opportunities while enhancing the competitiveness of local businesses and agricultural producers.
Governor Zulum praised Governor Aliyu for prioritising projects that directly impact livelihoods and stimulate economic growth.
“Your administration deserves commendation for prioritising investments that improve livelihoods and promote economic growth. This project reflects your commitment to building a prosperous Sokoto State where commerce and enterprise can thrive,” he emphasised.
Earlier speaking, the Sokoto State Governor, Dr. Ahmad Aliyu, welcomed Governor Zulum and thanked him for honouring the invitation to perform the foundation-laying ceremony.
Governor Aliyu said the project, awarded at a cost of N1,893,630,116.59, would complement his administration’s efforts to strengthen commerce, agriculture, and economic development across the state.
He noted that Illela, as a border town, plays a strategic role in revenue generation through vibrant commercial activities and cross-border trade.
“Illela Market attracts traders from both Nigeria and the Republic of Niger who bring diverse goods and services that contribute immensely to the economies of both countries,” he stated.
The governor described the Illela International Market as one of the largest and most strategically important markets in the state.
Governor Aliyu noted that the market serves as a major outlet for agricultural produce from surrounding farming communities and has contributed significantly to food security over the years.
He explained that the upgrade is being financed through a partnership involving the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), the World Bank, the French Development Agency (AFD), the Federal Government, and the Sokoto State Government.
According to him, the intervention reflects the confidence development partners have in Sokoto State’s ability to successfully implement critical infrastructure projects.
Governor Aliyu assured stakeholders of his administration’s commitment to the successful execution of the project.
