Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi
Former Nigerian President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has commissioned 18 township roads spanning 49.7 kilometres worth about N58.7 billion under the leadership of Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed of Bauchi State.
The projects are aimed at improving connectivity, transportation, security and access to essential services within the state capital.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony as well as the official foundation laying ceremony for the construction of four Recreational Parks in Bauchi metropolis on Monday, Dr. Jonathan said the scale of the investment reflects purposeful governance under Governor Bala Mohammed.
The former President who described the projects as practical and impactful governance, beneficial to the teeming residents,
noted that roads remain critical to economic growth because they “connect communities, facilitate commerce, create opportunities and promote inclusive development.”
According to him, “This 49.7km road network is more than asphalt. It is a celebration of visionary leadership, responsible governance, and purposeful investment in infrastructure that directly improves the quality of life of our people.”
The former president noted this was his third official visit to Bauchi, adding that “the state has always occupied a special place in my heart.”
“No society can achieve sustainable growth without reliable roads,” Jonathan said.
“Roads remain critical for development, connecting communities, facilitating commerce, creating opportunities, and promoting inclusive growth.” He added.
Jonathan urged residents to protect the new infrastructure, echoing the governor’s appeal. “Roads are investments in your collective future. Their maintenance and protection are shared responsibilities,” he said.
He also commended Governor Mohammed, recalling that he served as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory during his administration.
“He has continued to justify the confidence reposed in him by the people,” he added.
In his remarks earlier, Governor Bala Mohammed said the 18 roads were designed to link key residential areas, commercial centres, schools and public facilities across the Bauchi metropolis.
He said the N58.7 billion projects were constructed to standard with durable pavement, drainage, culverts, road markings, and solar-powered street lighting on selected routes.
According to the governor, the impact of the 49.7km intervention is already evident in improved mobility, a boost to economic activity, and job creation. He called on residents to safeguard the assets.
Bala Mohammed said that the projects demonstrated his administration’s commitment to prudent management of public resources and the provision of infrastructure that drives economic growth and improves the quality of life of residents.
The governor also said that his administration had set a target of constructing not fewer than 5,000 kilometres of roads across the state and had so far completed approximately 3,000 kilometres since assuming office in 2019.
He stressed the government’s road programme was not merely about construction but about “opening economic opportunities, improving livelihoods and laying a foundation for sustainable development.”
The governor explained that the completed township roads were constructed in accordance with engineering standards and included durable pavements, drainage systems, traffic signs, road markings, speed-calming measures and solar-powered street lighting on selected routes.
He also appealed to residents to protect the roads as public assets and avoid activities that could damage the infrastructure.
In his welcoming remarks, the Commissioner for Works and Transport, Professor Titus Uba Ketkukah, said the commissioning reflected the commitment of both the state and federal governments to infrastructure development.
He assured that the ministry would continue to ensure that road projects were properly executed, delivered and certified in line with approved engineering standards and specifications.
In his vote of thanks, the Chairman, Bauchi State Council of Traditional Rulers, and Emir of Bauchi, Alh Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu, thanked the former president for always identifying with Bauchi State, saying that he has proven to be a worthy son of the state.
The Emir commended Bala Mohammed for transforming the state far better than it was in 2019 when he was elected and sworn in saying that the people have really tested the dividends of democracy.
He assured that the people of Bauchi State will continue to support the administration in the effort to make the state better and comparable to others in the country.