Odita Sunday 
Tinubu Flags Off Key North-East Roads to Boost Security, Trade with Cameroon, Chad
By Odita Sunday
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has flagged off the rehabilitation of the Bama–Banki and Dikwa–Gamboru Ngala roads in Borno State, saying the projects will strengthen security, expand regional trade and accelerate economic development in the North-East.
The President, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the ceremony, described the road projects as strategic investments aimed at rebuilding critical infrastructure, improving connectivity and promoting sustainable development in the region.
The two road contracts were awarded to Dangote Industries Nigeria Limited under the Federal Government’s Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme, with Dantata & Sawoe Nigeria Limited serving as subcontractor.
According to the President, the strategic road corridors will improve access to neighbouring Cameroon and the Republic of Chad, creating new opportunities for trans-border trade while supporting the socio-economic recovery of communities affected by insurgency.
Tinubu said the projects would also enhance the movement of people, goods and services, strengthen security and deepen regional integration.
He called on stakeholders to support the successful execution of the projects, assuring Nigerians that his administration would continue to prioritise infrastructure capable of driving economic growth and national development.
Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, described the projects as another milestone in the Federal Government’s infrastructure renewal programme.
He explained that the roads form part of the administration’s four legacy infrastructure projects spread across the six geopolitical zones, adding that they are designed to improve regional connectivity, reduce travel time and facilitate trade with neighbouring countries.
Also speaking, Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, said the projects would deliver significant economic, security, healthcare and tourism benefits.
According to him, the roads represent strategic investments that will improve livelihoods, strengthen regional integration and enhance the quality of life of residents.
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Senator Allwell Onyesoh, and Chairman of the House Committee on Works, Hon. Akin Alabi, commended the collaboration between the National Assembly and the Federal Ministry of Works, describing the projects as evidence of the Federal Government’s commitment to inclusive infrastructure development.
President and Chief Executive Officer of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, said the Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme had become a major vehicle for financing critical infrastructure across the country.
He disclosed that the company is currently executing 12 road projects worth about ₦3 trillion under the scheme and reaffirmed its readiness to undertake more projects in support of national development.
Dangote also commended the Minister of Works for his commitment to delivering quality infrastructure.
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, described the roads as vital to the economic recovery and security of the North-East, saying they would strengthen commercial ties with Cameroon and Chad while boosting peace and economic activities across the region.
He thanked President Tinubu for his continued support for Borno State and the North-East.
Speaking on behalf of the Borno State Council of Traditional Rulers, the Shehu of Dikwa, representing the Chairman of the Council, Alhaji Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Al-Amin El-Kanemi, assured the Federal Government of the traditional institution’s support for the successful execution of the projects.
The Federal Ministry of Works said the rehabilitation of the Bama–Banki and Dikwa–Gamboru Ngala roads underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to renewing critical infrastructure, strengthening national security, expanding regional trade and unlocking new economic opportunities across the North-East.
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