A significant milestone in Nigeria's infrastructure renewal and a major boost for Plateau State's economic future.
Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang joined President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, at the official flag-off of the Akwanga–Jos–Bauchi–Gombe Super Highway,a transformative project that will strengthen regional connectivity, enhance trade, improve security, and unlock new opportunities for agriculture, tourism, and investment.
Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Mutfwang described the highway as a strategic investment that will position Plateau State as a regional economic hub by reducing transportation costs, expanding market access for farmers, attracting investments, creating jobs, and stimulating interstate commerce. He also commended President Tinubu for fulfilling his commitment to deliver critical infrastructure that will leave a lasting legacy for generations.
The Honourable Minister of Works, Sen. Engr. David Umahi, described the project as a key component of the President's Legacy Highway Programme, noting that it forms part of a nationwide network of durable concrete highways designed to connect every geopolitical zone, improve productivity, and drive long-term economic growth.
The Akwanga–Jos–Bauchi–Gombe Super Highway represents more than a road,it is a corridor of opportunity that will connect communities, strengthen regional integration, boost commerce, and accelerate development across Plateau State and beyond.
Today, I was delighted to join the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, ably represented by my dear brother, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, the National Chairman of the APC, alongside the Honourable Minister of Works, Sen. Engr. David Umahi, CON, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD, represented, to officially flag off the rehabilitation of the Babban Lamba–Sharam Road (Phase II) in Plateau State.
This important project is yet another demonstration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's unwavering commitment to the development of Plateau State and the well-being of its people. The President has continued to show compassion, empathy, and genuine friendship through deliberate investments in critical infrastructure with the challenges confronting our state.
I sincerely appreciate Mr. President for approving the dualisation of the Akwanga–Jos–Bauchi–Gombe–Maiduguri Road, a landmark project that will significantly improve transportation, stimulate economic growth, and strengthen regional integration across the North-Central and North-East.
The Babban Lamba–Sharam Road is far more than a road project. It is a strategic economic corridor that will connect communities, facilitate the movement of people and goods, improve access to markets, and unlock the vast agricultural and commercial potential of the area.
I am optimistic that the people of Plateau State will continue to appreciate the President's remarkable commitment to our development and will reciprocate this goodwill in 2027.
I also look forward to greater collaboration with the National Chairman of our great party, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, whose leadership continues to make us proud. Together, I am confident we will attract even more developmental projects that will improve the lives of our people and move Plateau State to greater heights.
I equally commend the Honourable Minister of Works, Sen. Engr. David Umahi, for enhancing the scope of this project by adopting continuous reinforced concrete pavement technology.
I also appealed to the President to graciously approve the construction of the Maraban Jama'a–Barkin Ladi–Mangu–Pankshin–Kanke–Langtang–Shendam to River Ibi Road in Taraba State.
This strategic road corridor will enhance connectivity across Plateau and Taraba States, facilitate the movement of people, goods, and services, boost agricultural and commercial activities, and stimulate socio-economic development throughout the region.
Together, we remain committed to building a more prosperous, connected, and economically vibrant Plateau State for the benefit of present and future generations.
GOVERNOR MUTFWANG JOINS PRESIDENT TINUBU TO FLAG OFF AKWANGA–JOS–BAUCHI–GOMBE SUPER HIGHWAY, DESCRIBES PROJECT AS STRATEGIC TO TRANSFORMING PLATEAU INTO A REGIONAL ECONOMIC HUB
The Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has described the official flag-off of the construction of the Akwanga–Jos–Bauchi–Gombe Super Highway as a landmark achievement in Nigeria's infrastructure renewal programme, with far-reaching implications for economic growth, regional integration, agriculture, security, tourism, and interstate commerce.
The groundbreaking ceremony, performed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, in Akwanga, Nasarawa State, brought together governors, federal government officials, and political leaders, who unanimously described the project as one of the most strategic infrastructure investments under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, Governor Caleb Mutfwang expressed profound appreciation to President Tinubu for approving the highway as the fourth of the President's Legacy Projects, describing the initiative as a demonstration of visionary leadership that places national development above partisan politics.
The Governor recalled that the approval for the project was first announced during a meeting of the National Council of State and noted that the commencement of construction further reinforces President Tinubu's reputation as a leader who honours his commitments.
"We want to thank Mr. President for approving this project. I remember when he first announced at the National Council of State meeting that this road would be included among the Legacy Projects. It was indeed heartwarming. This initiative will leave a lasting legacy in the hearts and minds of our people."
Governor Mutfwang said history would remember President Tinubu not merely for initiating the project but for investing in infrastructure capable of transforming generations.
"This road will undoubtedly attract the blessings and prayers of our people as it progresses. It is beyond politics; it is about a leader who is committed to building enduring legacies. When this road is completed, Mr. President's contribution to national development will never be forgotten." He said.
According to the Governor, the commencement of the project provides tangible evidence that the Renewed Hope Agenda is translating into impactful development initiatives that will improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians.
"Mr. President walks the talk. When he makes a promise, he keeps it, and today we are witnessing that promise becoming a reality. I am confident that he will continue to deliver on his commitments. There may be challenges along the way, but I see light at the end of the tunnel."
Governor Mutfwang also commended the Federal Government's ongoing economic reforms, urging Nigerians to assess the current administration within the context of the difficult economic realities it inherited.
He observed that President Tinubu assumed office at a time when Nigeria faced severe fiscal constraints, mounting debt obligations, and declining foreign reserves, but maintained that emerging economic indicators point towards gradual recovery and renewed investor confidence.
The Governor linked the highway directly to Nigeria's agricultural transformation, stressing that efficient transportation infrastructure remains indispensable to food security, rural prosperity, and economic competitiveness.
"One of the most critical enablers of agricultural production is access to markets. There could not have been a better time for a project of this magnitude to commence."
He noted that the Akwanga–Jos–Bauchi–Gombe Super Highway would significantly strengthen Plateau State's economy. As one of Nigeria's leading producers of Plateau potatoes, vegetables, maize, tomatoes, fruits, and livestock, Plateau has long contended
It was a profound honour and privilege to join His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, represented by the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, alongside the Honourable Minister of Works, Sen. Engr. David Nweze Umahi, members of the Federal Executive Council, distinguished members of the National and State Assemblies, and other eminent Nigerians, at the official flag-off of the construction of the Akwanga–Jos Superhighway (Section I), a 125-kilometre stretch of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's fourth Legacy Project.
This historic project is the first section of the 700-kilometre, six-lane Akwanga–Jos–Kaduna–Bauchi–Gombe–Biu–Maiduguri Superhighway, a transformational infrastructure corridor that will boost economic activities, strengthen national unity, improve security, and unlock enormous opportunities for millions of Nigerians.
For the people of Plateau State and neighbouring communities, this is the fulfilment of a long-standing aspiration. It is a project that many stakeholders tirelessly advocated for, and today, we celebrate a promise fulfilled under the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
I sincerely thank Mr. President for approving and commencing this landmark project. His commitment to delivering life-changing infrastructure continues to inspire confidence and demonstrates that the Renewed Hope Agenda is translating into tangible development across our nation. By the grace of God, this superhighway will become one of the enduring legacies of his administration across these states.
Beyond connecting communities, this road will transform lives. It will provide easier access to markets for our farmers, reduce transportation costs, stimulate commerce, create employment opportunities, enhance the security of lives and property, and improve the overall quality of life for our people. This is the kind of infrastructure that drives sustainable economic growth.
I also express my profound appreciation to the Honourable Minister of Works, Sen. Engr. David Nweze Umahi, CON, whose dedication, passion, and relentless commitment to infrastructure development have been exemplary. His leadership and tireless efforts have been instrumental in translating Mr. President's vision into reality.
The people of Nasarawa, Plateau, Kaduna, Bauchi, Gombe, Borno, and indeed all Nigerians who will benefit from this vital highway, will remember President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Honourable Minister of Works for this bold investment in the future of our nation.
Together, we are building not just roads, but stronger communities, greater prosperity, and a more united Nigeria.
The construction of the NDLEA–Fobur–Angware Road in Jos East Local Government Area has been completed, marking the successful delivery of a critical infrastructure project aimed at improving connectivity and enhancing the quality of life for residents.
Community members expressed their satisfaction with the completed project. They explained that the road had been in a deplorable condition for many years despite repeated promises by previous administrations. According to them, the poor state of the road made transportation difficult, slowed economic activities, and created significant challenges for commuters and businesses.
Residents commended His Excellency, Governor Caleb Mutfwang, for fulfilling his promise to rehabilitate the road, noting that the completed project has made movement easier, improved access to neighbouring communities, and boosted commercial activities in the area.
The residents described the road as a transformative project that has restored their confidence in government and demonstrated the administration's commitment to delivering infrastructure that directly improves the lives and livelihoods of the people.
The completion of the Sabon Barki–Little Rayfield Road has brought significant relief to residents and commuters, who say the project has transformed movement and renewed economic activity within the area.
During interviews conducted along the road, residents described its previous condition as extremely poor, noting that it was difficult to access and often discouraged people from living, investing, or developing property in the community. According to them, the deplorable state of the road affected transportation, reduced commercial activities, and limited the area's growth.
Community members expressed appreciation to His Excellency, Governor Caleb Mutfwang, for delivering the road project, stating that the completed road has made commuting easier and restored confidence in the area's development potential. They noted that traffic has increased considerably, with more vehicles now using the route, an indication of improved accessibility and connectivity.
Residents further described the project as a major boost to the community, saying it has enhanced the attractiveness of the neighbourhood, encouraged development, and improved their overall quality of life. They commended the Governor's commitment to infrastructure development and expressed optimism that the administration will continue to deliver projects that positively impact the lives of the people.
John Terry responds to Enzo Maresca’s letter:
“I read every word of Enzo’s letter, and all I saw were excuses. You don’t walk away from Chelsea halfway through a season because Manchester City called. That’s not a ‘difficult decision’ that’s choosing your own career over the club that trusted you and picked you up from Championship.
You say Chelsea treated you well, yet you left the players, fans and staff to deal with the mess. That’s sneaky behaviour, and no apology changes that. If you can abandon Chelsea for Manchester City today, don’t be surprised if you abandon Manchester City for Real Madrid tomorrow. Loyalty isn’t something you write in a farewell letter it’s something you prove with your actions.”
🚨🎙️ Rio Ferdinand on Enzo Maresca leaving Chelsea for Manchester City:
🗣️ “I’ll be honest, I never thought we’d get to hear the full story from Maresca himself. For months, everyone was blaming the owners for sacking one of their best managers in recent years, but the club simply knew something the public didn’t.”
🗣️ “If a player or a manager no longer sees a club as the place he want, then why should the club want to keep him? Sometimes the biggest move a club can make is knowing when to let go.”
🗣️ “From Maresca’s side though, I found it disappointing. Chelsea gave him the biggest opportunity of his career. They took him from Leicester, trusted him with one of the biggest jobs in England and gave him a platform to build his name.”
🗣️ “You don’t leave a club like that halfway through a project because Pep Guardiola calls you. That’s not how you repay a club that believed in you before everyone else did.”
🗣️ “I actually respect Chelsea for acting immediately. Once they realized his mind wasn’t fully at the club anymore, they moved on instead of begging someone to stay.”
🗣️ “And look at who they’ve brought in—Xabi Alonso. A manager with a bigger résumé, a stronger personality and someone who can influence an entire football club, not just the starting eleven.”
🗣️ “Maybe Maresca leaving and Xabi becoming available at almost the same time wasn’t just a coincidence. It could be a blessing in disguise.”
Man City Statement:
“We can confirm that confidential conversations took place between select representatives of City and Enzo Maresca in Autumn and Winter of 2025, while he was Chelsea FC’s Head Coach, regarding the possibility of him returning to City in a transitional leadership coaching capacity should Pep Guardiola decide to leave. We acknowledge Chelsea’s statement regarding the context of Enzo’s departure from Chelsea. We also acknowledge the context in which permission for discussions was given, and we recognize that his departure mid-season was disruptive to Chelsea’s season.
Once terms were agreed with Enzo Maresca, Manchester City and Chelsea FC reached a mutually agreed settlement under which Chelsea FC will receive compensation.”
🚨 BREAKING: Enzo Maresca :
“At the end of December 2025, I made the difficult decision to leave Chelsea”
"The decision was only mine. My resignation from Chelsea opened a path for me to join Manchester City, which is a club I knew very well. I am ecstatic that I have now joined Manchester City.”
"I recognise that my departure from Chelsea in the middle of the season caused disruption for the club and I apologise for that. It was neither my intention nor my wish.”
"I was treated well by everyone at Chelsea and together we achieved great success and memories that I will always treasure.
"I am grateful to the club, the owners and the fans for giving me the opportunity."
🚨 John Terry responds to Enzo Maresca’s letter:
“I read every word of Enzo’s letter, and all I saw were excuses. You don’t walk away from Chelsea halfway through a season because Manchester City called. That’s not a ‘difficult decision’ that’s choosing your own career over the club that trusted you and picked you up from Championship.
You say Chelsea treated you well, yet you left the players, fans and staff to deal with the mess. That’s sneaky behaviour, and no apology changes that. If you can abandon Chelsea for Manchester City today, don’t be surprised if you abandon Manchester City for Real Madrid tomorrow. Loyalty isn’t something you write in a farewell letter it’s something you prove with your actions.”
I like how coordinated all these communications are.
It’s a good experience for who has interest in things like that.
All of these could have been revealed a long time ago but the parties involved but they’ve all strategically waited till now.
On the same day Chelsea revealed why Maresca left, Maresca revealed why he left too, confirming what Chelsea said, and apologised for his part in how their season exploded.
Chelsea revealed he and Man City will pay a compensation, and on the same day, Man City announced his signing.
All of that happened within 45 minutes to 1 hour of the other.
🚨 Chelsea have received £17m in compensation following Enzo Maresca's Manchester City appointment. And Maresca has already agreed a separate settlement
Maresca has publicly apologised following his Chelsea's resignation, while Chelsea say they feel "let down" by the Italian's departure since his "head and heart were focused on another club".
🗣️ Maresca: "The decision was only mine. My resignation from Chelsea opened a path for me to join Manchester City, which is a club I knew very well. I am ecstatic that I have now joined Manchester City.
"I recognise that my departure from Chelsea in the middle of the season caused disruption for the club and I apologise for that. It was neither my intention nor my wish."
Maresca was given permission to speak to Manchester City last year, but at the time Chelsea felt it would be with a view to continuing until the end of the season at the earliest.
🗣️ Chelsea statement: "Chelsea FC appreciates the 2025/26 season was a hugely disappointing one for the Club and its supporters. A major contributing factor was the disruption caused as a result of changes that the Club was forced to make to the Head Coach position over the Christmas period. Due to recent developments, we consider that it is important to explain to our supporters what happened and why our former Head Coach left the Club on 1 January 2026.
"In Autumn last year, the Club was informed by our former Head Coach that there might be an opportunity for him to succeed Pep Guardiola at the end of the season. It became clear to us that it was his strong desire to succeed Guardiola and that he was fully committed to pursuing the opportunity, despite the fact he was under a long-term contract which he had no right to terminate.
"In December 2025, our Head Coach unexpectedly and abruptly resigned from his position. Obviously, we felt let down as we believed that his head and heart were focused on another club and another opportunity, despite having just arrived at Chelsea the year before.
"No club wants to change its head coach midway through a season. However, in light of his decision not to continue fulfilling his responsibilities through to the end of the season, the Club was left with no choice but to protect our players, our supporters, and the Badge and accept his resignation.
"In the circumstances and given the mutual respect between clubs, a confidential settlement has been reached with Manchester City, which includes the payment of compensation. A confidential settlement has also been reached with the former Head Coach under which he will pay compensation.
"Looking forward to next season, in Xabi Alonso, we have a Manager who has an exceptional football mind and is a professional of the highest integrity. He has all the attributes to deliver the success the Club’s supporters deserve and expect."
Maresca basically put himself first and took out his frustration with the Chelsea hierarchy by sabotaging the team mid season to get back at them
I hope Manchester City are taking notes regarding his personality when things start to go south for them post-pep
In business if you can either sell out someone you work with or jump ship in this context when it's convenient for you, then even the buyer would be dumb to fully trust you.
Man City statement:
"We acknowledge Chelsea’s statement regarding the context of Enzo’s departure from Chelesa. We also acknowledge the context in which permission for discussions was given, and we recognize that his departure mid-season was disruptive to Chelsea’s season."
🚨Skysport 🗣️ Despite Maresca leaving Chelsea at the start of the year, the deal has taken longer than expected because Chelsea believe he still has contractual obligations to the club after walking out of a contract that had three and a half years remaining.
Chelsea also reportedly believe Maresca was approached about the Manchester City job during the autumn, while he was still under contract.
As a result, Chelsea have insisted on protecting their interests and ensuring they are properly represented in negotiations rather than simply releasing him without conditions.
Rival fans pushed the narrative that Xabi Alonso found out about Cucurella’s sale through Fabrizio’s page just like the rest of us, and some Chelsea fans actually believed it because it suits their agenda 😭😂
‼️It's absolutely not true that Xabi Alonso didn't have a clue about Cucurella's exit. Alonso was informed about everything.
Xabi Alonso is working with Chelsea on exits, on incomings, on strategy, on contracts, so he is 100% involved and will be involved in the decisions that Chelsea hierarchy will make this summer.
~ @FabrizioRomano on YouTube