Tinubu Flags Off Strategic North-East Road Projects to Boost Security, Trade, Regional Integration

By Pan Afric Reporters

MAIDUGURI – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has flagged off the rehabilitation of the Bama–Banki and Dikwa–Gamboru Ngala roads in Borno State, describing the projects as strategic investments aimed at strengthening security, expanding cross-border trade, and accelerating economic development across Nigeria’s North-East.

The President, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, said the road projects demonstrate his administration’s commitment to rebuilding critical infrastructure that will enhance connectivity, foster regional integration and improve the livelihoods of Nigerians.

The disclosure was contained in a press statement issued by the Federal Ministry of Works and signed by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Mohammed A. Ahmed, on July 5, 2026.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, President Tinubu said the rehabilitation of the two strategic highways fulfils one of his administration’s campaign promises to restore key infrastructure capable of driving sustainable development and national prosperity.

He noted that the road corridors would improve access to neighbouring Cameroon and the Republic of Chad, thereby creating fresh opportunities for trans-Saharan trade and expanding cross-border commerce.

“The projects reflect our commitment to rebuilding critical infrastructure that will improve connectivity, strengthen regional integration and promote sustainable development,” the President stated.

He added that beyond facilitating the movement of people, goods and services, the projects would enhance security and support the socio-economic recovery of communities devastated by years of insurgency.

President Tinubu urged all stakeholders to work closely with communities in the North-East to ensure the successful execution of the projects, assuring Nigerians that his administration would continue investing in infrastructure that stimulates economic growth and national development.

The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, described the projects as another milestone in the Federal Government’s infrastructure renewal programme.

According to him, the roads form part of the administration’s four legacy infrastructure projects spread across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones and are designed to improve regional connectivity, reduce travel time, facilitate trade and strengthen economic integration with neighbouring countries.

The Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, said the projects would deliver far-reaching economic, security, healthcare and tourism benefits.

“These roads are more than transportation infrastructure; they are strategic investments that will promote regional integration, improve livelihoods and enhance the quality of life of the people,” he said.

Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Senator Allwell Heacho Onyesoh, and Chairman of the House Committee on Works, Hon. Akin Alabi, also commended the strong partnership between the National Assembly and the Federal Ministry of Works.

They described the projects as clear evidence of the Federal Government’s commitment to inclusive infrastructure development and pledged continued legislative support for their successful completion.

President and Chief Executive Officer of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, described the Federal Government’s Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme as a transformative initiative for financing critical infrastructure.

He disclosed that the Dangote Group is currently executing 12 road projects worth about ₦3 trillion under the scheme and reaffirmed the company’s readiness to undertake additional infrastructure projects.

“Quality roads and bridges stimulate economic activities, attract investment and promote national prosperity,” Dangote said, while commending Senator Umahi’s leadership and describing him as “a conqueror” for his commitment to infrastructure delivery.

Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State described the projects as vital to the economic recovery and security of the North-East.

According to him, the roads will strengthen commercial and social ties with Cameroon and Chad while boosting peace, security and economic activities across the region.

He expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for what he described as his unwavering 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 (Dr.) Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Al-Amin El-Kanemi, welcomed the initiative and assured the Federal Government of the full support of traditional institutions throughout the implementation of the projects.

The contracts for the rehabilitation of the Bama–Banki and Dikwa–Gamboru Ngala roads were awarded to Dangote Industries (Nig.) Ltd. under the Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme, with Dantata & Sawoe (Nig.) Limited serving as the subcontractor.

Upon completion, the projects are expected to improve mobility, strengthen national security, facilitate cross-border trade, attract investments and unlock new economic opportunities across the North-East and Nigeria as a whole.