Today, I represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) at the commissioning of the Akwanga Underpass and road project, as well as the flag-off of Section I of the Akwanga–Kaduna–Jos segment of the 700-kilometre Akwanga–Bauchi–Gombe–Biu–Maiduguri Superhighway—another landmark legacy project under the Renewed Hope Agenda. It was a great honour to stand in for Mr. President on such a historic occasion. The massive turnout and warm reception from the people of Nasarawa State clearly demonstrated their overwhelming support for President Tinubu and their appreciation of his commitment to their development. It is evident that the President holds the people of Nasarawa dear and remains committed to improving their quality of life.
I expressed the President's gratitude to the people of Nasarawa State and indeed all Nigerians for their patience, support and belief in the ongoing reforms. These reforms are already yielding measurable results. Today, states receive significantly higher allocations than they did before, enabling them to meet critical obligations. In 2023, about 30 out of the 36 states struggled to pay salaries and gratuities. That is no longer the situation. Across the federation, roads, bridges, schools, markets and other critical infrastructure are being constructed to stimulate economic growth and improve the lives of Nigerians.
President Tinubu has consistently demonstrated that bold reforms produce lasting results. He transformed Lagos through visionary leadership, reclaimed land from the Atlantic, modernised the tax administration system and laid the foundation for sustainable economic growth. Today, he is replicating that same vision on a national scale. From the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway to the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway, the Akwanga-Maiduguri Superhighway and the Trans-Sahara Trade Route, Nigeria is witnessing the most ambitious road infrastructure programme in its history. The construction of five new seaports and the expansion of rail infrastructure, including the rail corridor to Maradi, will strengthen regional trade, reduce transportation costs, create jobs and position Nigeria as the commercial hub of West Africa.
I also commended the Governor of Nasarawa State for providing an atmosphere where people of different ethnic backgrounds coexist peacefully and contribute meaningfully to the development of the state. I equally appreciated our revered traditional rulers for their invaluable role in promoting peace and securing our communities. As the National Assembly continues work on the State Police Bill, I encouraged state governments to support its speedy implementation as part of the broader effort to strengthen security across the country.
The Renewed Hope Agenda is about building a stronger, safer and more prosperous Nigeria where every citizen can realise his or her potential. These legacy projects are not just roads; they are pathways to economic prosperity, national unity and shared progress. I pray that God Almighty grants President Bola Ahmed Tinubu good health, wisdom and long life to continue this important work of nation-building and to consolidate the gains of his transformational leadership for the benefit of all Nigerians.
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.
"One of the key challenges in our agricultural sector has been the disconnect between production and the marketplace."
In this insightful interview, Hon. Ezekiel Davou, Special Adviser to the Governor on Commodity Market and Food Security, highlights the critical role of PLACOM in bridging the gap between farmers and markets across Plateau State.
According to him, while significant attention has traditionally been given to agricultural production, the marketing aspect has often been neglected, limiting the full economic potential of the sector. PLACOM was established to address this gap by creating efficient market linkages, improving commodity value chains, and ensuring that farmers receive better returns for their produce.
He shared the vision behind the initiative and how the Mutfwang administration is leveraging commodity marketing to strengthen food security, empower farmers, and drive sustainable economic growth in Plateau State.
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