By Abdulkareem Haruna
In a major move designed to alleviate traffic congestion and enhance security in Maiduguri, Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum announced the launch of three significant road projects on Wednesday. The projects, worth over N10.9 billion, are slated to dualize key routes within the Maiduguri Metropolitan Council (MMC).
Governor Zulum, during the launch ceremony, underlined the twin goals of the ambitious initiative – to ease traffic and bolster security in the metropolis. He stated that 50% of the contract sum has already been advanced to the contractors to kick-start the work.
In addition to easing traffic, the expanded roads are expected to aid in improved surveillance and quicker response times by security agencies, thus contributing to the overall safety of the region.
Despite the upfront payment, Zulum assured the contractors of timely disbursements and emphasized that a total of about N11 billion has been allocated for the project.
“We are delivering on our campaign promises with the initiation of three major road projects in the MMC, costing approximately N11 billion,” said Zulum. “With a 50% mobilization fee already disbursed, we have earmarked the total project cost for prompt payment after each necessary evaluation.”
The road projects will create vital connections between Shehu Umar Garbai and Bursari Road, from the Shehu roundabout to Baga Road. They will also link the Maiduguri Monday Market roundabout, Budum roundabout, and Kofa Biyu, and establish a route from Idrissa Khadi junction to Sir Kashim Ibrahim Way via Budum roundabout.
Borno State Commissioner of Works and Housing, Engr Mustapha Gubio, added that the project incorporates the construction of 14.52km of drainage networks, further contributing to improved city infrastructure.
The representative of Dan Nene Construction Company, the contractor for the project, assured quality and timely completion of the work within the designated nine-month timeframe.
The Humanitarian Times 