Story from Ahmad SAKA, Bauchi
The Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has performed a groundbreaking ceremony of the construction of a 24.5-kilometre Itas-Gadau road project worth the sum of N8.5 billion in Bauchi State.
Governor Makinde who performed the ceremony at Itas-Gadau local government area of Bauchi state said that the road project will leave a legacy after the administration of the State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed Abdulkadir.
He said that the road project is significant because of its economic social value to the people of the area and Bauchi state as a whole.
Makinde said that he was convinced that leaders can succeed in moving Nigeria forward if they continue to provide economic empowerments by providing infrastructures the people need, adding that Nigerians are resilient people who need the right environment to flourish.
“I have seen the specifications of this road and am happy that it is not the kind of road that will fall apart in a few months. The finishing with a 40mm Asphalt wearing cost is worth mentioning for its durability. As leaders, we must never forget that what we do with the opportunity we are given, will eventually speak for us. We must remain focused on doing the right things to the best of our abilities.
“We must work to accelerate development in our areas and road construction is one of those core development projects that must never be overlooked,” he said.
Governor Makinde added saying, “People always wonder why I always call you my brother. I call you my brother because we are all one, East, West, North or South, we are all one. When something affects one, it affects the other and when I had challenges in Oyo State with clashes at Shasha market between the Yorubas and the Fulani communities out there, you showed me support, you called me and encouraged me. I am glad to say today that we have absolute peace in that area.
“When I listened to the things you said, it showed that you believe in the unity of our people. This is a tough period in the life of our country; this is a period where we have non-state actors all over the place forming ethnic tension and some leaders looking away as if they do not know what is going on. You have shown by word and deeds that you care for the peace and unity of this country.
“Today is a day to be happy because you are starting something here that will improve access between Itas local government area and Gadau, where the Bauchi State University is located. As I have learnt, this shortens the time spent travelling between both communities and open up the agricultural area between them. So you have indeed taken a bold step and deserve to be commended,” he said.
The Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed said that the road project was procured using all the templates of procurement to ensure that the government gets value for money, adding that the project will last 24 months and is going to cover some of the most difficult terrains in Bauchi state with about three bridges, five culverts and a topography that is outstanding.
The Governor said he was very proud of the pressure put on him by the Emir of Katagum and the Deputy Governor to do the road project and also the people of Itas-Gadau local government, adding that the other road projects which cover 12km in Ningi local government, 12.2 km from Arinja up to Balama and an additional 2.5 km within Nasaru town in the same local government area was given to Mothercart construction company while others were given to Habib Engineering with a down payment of 30 per cent.
Bala said that the central zone has been shortchanged over the years by successive administration, adding that the only road transversing the central zone are the ones that are going to other places.
Makinde was given two horses, a cow and a traditional title, Bardèn Yamman Katagum by the Katagum emirate.
Follow the Neptune Prime channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va74ZvU2v1IqKByXoX3d
Do you have breaking news, interview request, opinion, suggestion, or want your event covered? Email us at neptuneprime2233@gmail.com
