Buni, NEDC flag off reconstruction of critical Damaturu–Gujba–Magza highway

Story by Sa’adatu MAINA, Damaturu

Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, has flagged off the reconstruction of the vital Damaturu-Gujba-Magza Road.

The project, undertaken by the North East Development Commission (NEDC), promises to restore a critical artery that has severed the region for over five decades.

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Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, Governor Buni emphasised that the highway is far more than a local route; it is a strategic corridor connecting Yobe State to Southern Borno, Adamawa, Taraba, and several states in other regions.

“This road was constructed over fifty years ago. It is a historic route that has long promoted socio-economic and agricultural activities between our people,” Governor Buni stated.

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He acknowledged the initial efforts of the administration of former Governor Senator Ibrahim Geidam, which reconstructed the 77-kilometre road from Damaturu to Magza, a border with Borno State.

However, Governor Buni explained that increased traffic pressure over the last few years had deteriorated portions of the road, necessitating urgent intervention.

Following this development, the governor revealed that his administration engaged the NEDC in a “speed hunt” to secure funding for the project.

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“I am happy to state that our discussions with the commission have been very fruitful, the outcome of which we are witnessing today,” Buni said, commending the NEDC for prioritising the request.

The governor highlighted the road’s strategic importance to security, noting that it facilitates the movement of troops and equipment, a critical factor in the fight against insurgency.

“Our commitment to road construction is a critical component in supporting security across the state. Beyond security, it is the backbone of our post-insurgency recovery programme, providing our people access to their farmlands and markets,” he explained.

Governor Buni expressed gratitude to the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for its support in addressing critical infrastructure needs.

He called on benefiting communities to support the contractors to ensure quality execution and urged the contractors to adhere strictly to the terms of the agreement.

In his remarks, the Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer of the NEDC, Mohammad Goni Alkali, lauded Governor Buni’s relentless efforts in bringing the project to fruition.

“His Excellency has put in an incredible effort to see that this project happens. On many occasions, he has written, discussed verbally, and so on. Thank God, his action and our intention today have brought us here,” Alkali stated.

Alkali noted the road’s potential to extend beyond Yobe’s borders.

“And I want to assure you, the NEDC will make every effort to ensure this road is done as we started today without any break. We are committed to its completion.”

He further praised Governor Buni for providing unwavering support to the commission, stating, “Anytime we call on him, he is always ready to give us support. We do not take that for granted.”

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