Aliyu Flags Off N9.52bn Durbawa–Maikujira Road Project to Boost Rural Economy

Aliyu Flags Off N9.52bn Durbawa–Maikujira Road Project to Boost Rural Economy

From Shehu M. Wamakko

Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State has flagged off the construction of the 23-kilometre Durbawa–Maikujira Road at a cost of N9.52 billion, describing the project as a strategic investment aimed at stimulating rural economic growth, enhancing agricultural productivity and improving the living conditions of communities along the corridor.

The road project, funded through a partnership involving the World Bank, the French Development Agency (AFD), the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Sokoto State Government, was inaugurated in Durbawa as part of activities marking the third anniversary of the Aliyu administration.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, Governor Aliyu said the project reflects his administration’s commitment to inclusive development and the transformation of rural communities through critical infrastructure.

He noted that road construction and rehabilitation have remained central to his government's development agenda since coming into office, leading to the execution of several township and inter-community roads across the state.

According to the governor, residents of communities along the Durbawa–Maikujira axis have endured poor road conditions for many years, making it difficult for farmers and traders to transport agricultural produce and access essential services, particularly during the rainy season.

“This project is not merely about constructing a road; it is about creating opportunities, improving access to markets, facilitating the movement of goods and services, and enhancing the quality of life of our people,” Aliyu stated.

The governor expressed gratitude to the World Bank, AFD, the Federal Government and other development partners for supporting the project, describing their involvement as a vote of confidence in his administration’s development vision.

He also urged contractors, engineers and consultants handling the project to adhere strictly to quality standards and ensure its timely completion.

Aliyu reaffirmed his commitment to delivering more people-oriented projects across the state and commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting infrastructure development nationwide.

In his remarks, the Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, praised Governor Aliyu for prioritising infrastructure development and improving the welfare of the people.

Goronyo described the road project as a critical intervention that would unlock economic opportunities for farming communities by improving access to markets and social services.

“A road is more than a stretch of asphalt; it is an economic lifeline. It facilitates trade, reduces transportation costs, improves access to healthcare and education, and promotes social and economic development,” he said.

The minister added that the project aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which identifies infrastructure as a key driver of economic growth and national integration.

He cited major federal road projects, including the Sokoto–Badagry Super Highway, Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, and the Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Sokoto Road Corridor, as evidence of the Federal Government’s commitment to enhancing connectivity across Nigeria.

Earlier, the Coordinator of the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAMP), Engineer Malami Umar Tambuwal, said the Durbawa–Maikujira Road would significantly reduce travel time and improve access to markets, schools and healthcare facilities.

He noted that the project would boost agricultural production, stimulate economic activities and improve the standard of living of residents in the benefiting communities.

Tambuwal also commended Governor Aliyu for supporting rural development initiatives, recalling that Sokoto State had previously been recognised among the best-performing states under RAMP, with the Gudu–Illela Road Project ranked among the top projects in the country.

Representing the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, the District Head of Binji and Sarkin Yakin Binji praised Governor Aliyu for executing projects aimed at improving living standards and promoting sustainable development.

He assured the governor of the continued support of the Sultanate Council for programmes that foster peace, development and prosperity across Sokoto State.

In his welcome address, the Chairman of Kware Local Government Council, Alhaji Ibrahim Attahiru Ruggar Giwa, pledged the council’s unwavering support to the Aliyu administration and expressed appreciation to the governor for initiating the project.

He explained that upon completion, the road would link several communities, including Durbawa, Maikujira, Rugga, Yar Barade, Kwanar Tunga, Tungar Kasara, Tungar Mallamawa, Gidan Basakkare and Riji, while also providing connectivity to Rabah Local Government Area.

The chairman described the road as a major relief for residents and offered prayers for the success of the governor’s administration.

The event attracted top government officials, members of the National Assembly, traditional rulers, development partners, community leaders and residents from across the state.