Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District and former Governor of Plateau State, has expressed profound appreciation to President for turning into reality the long-awaited Akwanga–Jos–Bauchi–Gombe–Biu–Maiduguri Superhighway project, describing it as a historic intervention that will transform transportation, commerce, agriculture and security across the North-Central and North-Eastern regions of Nigeria.
Senator Lalong said the official flag-off and commencement of Section 1, Phase 1 of the project covering the 125-kilometre Akwanga–Jos stretch is a clear demonstration of President Tinubu’s commitment to infrastructure renewal and national development under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The Senator recalled that the conception and advocacy for the superhighway dates back several years when he served as Governor of Plateau State and Chairman of the Northern Governors Forum. According to him, the Forum, working closely with stakeholders and leaders from the region, consistently engaged the administration of former President on the need for a modern highway corridor linking the North-Central and North-Eastern states in order to unlock economic opportunities and address growing transportation challenges.
He noted that the proposed corridor was envisioned as a strategic route that would connect major commercial centres, agricultural belts, state capitals and security formations stretching from Akwanga through Jos, Bauchi, Gombe and Biu to Maiduguri, thereby enhancing regional integration and national cohesion.
Senator Lalong said that after his election to the Senate, he remained committed to the realization of the project and continued to work with his colleagues in the National Assembly to draw the attention of the 10th Senate and relevant authorities to the strategic importance of the road.
He said the project was consistently highlighted as a priority infrastructure investment capable of stimulating economic growth, reducing travel time, improving security operations and easing the movement of goods and services across the region.
While commending President Tinubu for approving and commencing the project, Senator Lalong also praised the Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi for his dedication and innovative approach to road infrastructure development, particularly the adoption of Continuously Reinforced Concrete Pavement technology which is expected to guarantee durability and long-term value for public resources.
The former Governor said the project will bring immense benefits to Plateau State and other states along the corridor by improving access to markets, facilitating agricultural transportation, attracting investments, creating employment opportunities and strengthening security coordination across the region.
Senator Lalong urged communities and stakeholders along the route to support the successful execution of the project and cooperate with the contractors and government agencies responsible for its delivery. He expressed confidence that upon completion, the superhighway would stand as one of the most significant transportation corridors in Nigeria and a lasting legacy of the Tinubu administration.
He reiterated his commitment to supporting policies and programmes that promote infrastructure development and improve the quality of life of Nigerians, while assuring constituents of his continued efforts to attract projects that will accelerate the socio-economic development of Plateau South Senatorial District and the nation at large.
