The federal government has officially begun constructing the ambitious Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway, a project spanning over 2,000 kilometers and aiming to transform Nigeria’s transport landscape. Minister of Works, Engr. Nweze David Umahi, performed the groundbreaking in Sokoto State on Thursday, highlighting the historical significance of the project, which was first proposed nearly five decades ago during the administration of former President Shehu Shagari.
According to a statement by Mohammed Ahmed, Director of Press, Federal Ministry of Works, the construction’s flag-off for Section I, Phase 1A took place in Ilelah town, Sokoto State. Minister Umahi noted that the highway would serve as a symbol of gratitude to the people of Sokoto for their support in the 2023 elections and encouraged continued support for future administrations. He described the project as one of President Bola Tinubu‘s legacy undertakings, with the North receiving 52% and the South 48% of the highway’s extensive route.
Deputy Governor and Commissioner of Works for Sokoto State, Idris Mohammed Danchadi, called the superhighway “a dream come true” for the residents of Sokoto, lauding it as a long-awaited infrastructure upgrade for the region.
Engr. Bakare Umar, Director of Highways, Construction and Rehabilitation, and Engr. Musa Seidu, representing the Director of Highways, Bridges, and Design, explained that the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway is designed as a Trade, Transport, and Security (TTS) Greenfield corridor. The route will link Sokoto State to Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, Oyo, and Ogun States, ultimately connecting to Lagos State. They added that the highway is expected to reduce transportation costs, improve regional connectivity, and drive economic growth along the corridor.
The superhighway will feature a 120-kilometer, 6-lane configuration, separated by landscaped medians, solar-powered street lighting, and modern digital signage. This infrastructure is anticipated to facilitate trade and security, enhance border settlements, and provide efficient access to inter-border towns.
Minister of Budget and National Planning, Abubakar Bagudu, hailed the project as part of President Tinubu’s vision to modernize Nigeria’s infrastructure. Former Kebbi State Governor and Senate Committee on Works Vice Chairman, Senator Adamu Aliero, noted that the superhighway would reduce travel time between Sokoto and Lagos by up to 48 hours and integrate additional features like dams for irrigation and rail lines for cargo.
The Sultan of Sokoto, Alh. Sa’ad Abubakar III, expressed his support, pledging that the local community would work to aid the ministry in delivering a project that holds deep significance for Northern Nigeria. This landmark project is set to enhance trade, transportation, and regional connectivity across the nation.
Is this really necessary? Shouldnt Nigeria focus on improving existing infrastructure instead of building new highways?
I dont think we need another superhighway. Lets focus on fixing existing roads and investing in public transportation instead.
We need to prioritize efficiency and progress. Superhighways can improve transportation infrastructure.
I think investing in such a massive highway project is great, but shouldnt we focus more on improving existing infrastructure first?
I think Nigeria should focus on improving existing infrastructure before building new roads. Quality over quantity, am I right?
I dont see the hype. Shouldnt we focus on fixing existing roads before building new ones? Just my two cents.
I dont see the point of building a superhighway when there are more pressing issues like education and healthcare. Priorities, people!
I dont see the point of building more highways when existing ones are in terrible condition. Fix the old ones first!
Building new highways can help alleviate congestion and improve overall transportation efficiency. Its not always about fixing old ones.
I dont see the hype. We should focus on fixing existing roads instead of building new ones. Priorities, people!
I think they should focus on improving existing roads before building new ones. Quality over quantity, right?
I think Nigeria should prioritize improving existing infrastructure before building new projects. Quality over quantity, right?
Why not do both? Investing in new projects can also stimulate economic growth.
I dont see the point of investing in a superhighway when there are more pressing issues like healthcare and education. Priorities, people!
Infrastructure is crucial for economic growth; its not an either/or situation. Both are important.
I dont see the point of building a superhighway when there are more pressing issues in Nigeria like healthcare and education.
Improving infrastructure is crucial for development. Superhighways can boost economy and access to services.
I think they should focus on improving existing roads instead of building a new superhighway. Maintenance is key!
I dont see the point of celebrating this highway when there are more pressing issues like healthcare and education needing attention.
I think the money could have been better spent on improving existing infrastructure instead of building a new superhighway.
I dont see the big deal about this superhighway. Shouldnt we focus on improving existing roads first? Priorities, people!
I dont see the point in building a superhighway when there are still basic infrastructure issues in Nigeria. Focus on whats truly needed!
I wonder if this superhighway will actually benefit all Nigerians or just a select few. Hope its not another white elephant project!
I dont see the point of building a superhighway when there are more pressing issues like healthcare and education in Nigeria.
I think the money for the superhighway could have been better spent on improving healthcare or education in Nigeria.
I think Nigeria should focus on improving existing infrastructure instead of building new highways. Quality over quantity, right?
I dont think building a superhighway is the right move. We should focus on improving existing roads and public transportation instead.
I think the government should focus on improving existing roads instead of building new ones. Maintenance is key!
I dont get the hype. Shouldnt we focus on fixing existing roads before building new ones? Just my two cents.