The Nigerian Government says the ₦1.8 trillion reconstruction and dualisation of the Lambata–Bida–Mokwa–Makera–Kontagora Road is expected to strengthen agricultural supply chains, create jobs and stimulate commercial activities across Niger State and neighbouring communities.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, stated this at the flag-off ceremony in Bida, Niger State.
Speaking on behalf of members of the Federal Executive Council, Idris described the highway as a strategic investment that would improve access to markets and expand economic opportunities for farmers, traders, transport operators and young people.
He said; “the project would help bridge the gap between agricultural production centres and consumers by improving the movement of goods and people.”
“Today, we do more than flag off the construction of a road. We are opening a gateway to opportunity. We are connecting communities to markets, farmers to consumers, businesses to customers and our people to a more prosperous future,” he said.
Idris explained that improved road infrastructure was critical to economic growth, particularly in agricultural communities where poor transport networks could increase the cost of moving produce to commercial centres.
He said the project reflected President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to infrastructure development under the Renewed Hope Agenda, stressing that “investments of this scale were intended to improve living standards and support sustainable economic growth.”
Beyond its anticipated economic benefits, Idris said; “the construction phase would create employment and provide opportunities for small businesses, entrepreneurs, transport operators and young people in communities along the route.”
He urged residents to cooperate with contractors and protect the project’s right of way to ensure successful implementation.
“I urge everyone to support the contractors, protect the right of way and safeguard public infrastructure. Let us work together to ensure that this investment is completed on time and delivers its full benefits,” he said.
The Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago commended President Tinubu for supporting the state’s development priorities through infrastructure investments and other government policies.
Governor Bago expressed confidence that the projects would strengthen the state’s economy and improve residents’ welfare.
He also predicted a decisive electoral victory for President Tinubu in Niger State, citing the road projects and what he described as the positive impact of the President’s policies.
“Because of the road projects and the positive policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, I am confident that he will record a landslide victory in Niger State,” he said.
The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, also praised the administration’s infrastructure programme, arguing that its achievements justified another term in office.
Umahi also addressed concerns about the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, dismissing claims that the project had been abandoned. He maintained that construction was continuing and said the highway had been extended by a further 400 kilometres to align it with the East–West Road.
The Lambata–Bida–Mokwa–Makera–Kontagora corridor is expected to improve connectivity between major towns, farming communities and commercial centres, potentially reducing transport costs and improving access to markets.
