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The Etsu Nupe and Chairman, Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, has commended President Bola Tinubu and Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger for the planned reconstruction of Lambata-Lapai-Bida road.
The Etsu Nupe made the commendation while speaking with newsmen at his Wadata Palace in Bida at the weekend.
He described the official flag-off ceremony of the reconstruction and dualisation of the Lambata-Lapai-Bida-Mokwa-Makera-Kontagora federal highway, which took place on Tuesday (October 13), as well deserved.
He said the project would bring significant relief to motorists, commuters and transport operators, particularly those conveying goods between the northern and southern parts of the country.
The first class traditional ruler described the project as a major infrastructure intervention that would address the longstanding transportation difficulties faced by road users along the corridor.
According to him, the road serves as a strategic link between communities in Niger and other parts of the country, facilitating movement of people, agricultural produce and commercial goods.
He noted that the route was particularly important to heavy-duty vehicles transporting goods across the country, adding that its reconstruction will improve the efficiency of haulage operations, reduce travel-related difficulties and strengthen economic activities.
Abubakar lamented that the road had remained in use for years without adequate maintenance, resulting in deteriorating conditions that subjected motorists to hardship and delays.
The Etsu Nupe expressed optimism that the reconstruction would provide a lasting solution to the challenges, improve road safety and enhance connectivity among communities along the route.
The first-class royal father also lauded the decision to reconstruct the road using concrete, noting that the method is expected to provide greater durability and reduce the frequency of major repairs.
He said a durable road infrastructure would not only ease transportation but also promote economic growth by facilitating the movement of farm produce to markets, improving access to essential services and encouraging commercial activities.
Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar further observed that improved road connectivity would strengthen socioeconomic ties between Niger state and other parts of the country, particularly by easing the movement of traders, farmers, investors and other road users.
He said the project was particularly significant to residents of Lambata, Lapai, Agaie, Bida and neighbouring communities, whose livelihoods depend largely on agriculture, trade and other economic activities facilitated by the road.
The traditional ruler specifically commended Tinubu for prioritising critical road infrastructure and Bago for supporting initiatives aimed at improving transportation and development in Niger.
He, however, urged the relevant authorities and contractors to ensure that the project was executed according to specifications and completed within the schedule.
Abubakar stressed the importance of quality workmanship, effective supervision and adequate drainage systems to ensure that the reconstructed road serves road users for many years.
He expressed hope that the completion of the project would usher in improved transportation, enhanced commercial activities and greater economic opportunities for residents of Niger state and Nigerians who depend on the route.
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