Goronyo: Tinubu’s Sokoto–Badagry Highway To Boost Economy, Drive Development

The Minister of State for Works, Bello Goronyo, has described the 1,068-kilometre Sokoto–Badagry Super Highway as a transformative national project that will serve as a catalyst for economic growth, enhanced connectivity and regional integration across Nigeria.

Speaking during an inspection of ongoing construction works and the inauguration of a roadside tree-planting initiative along the Illela–Sokoto section of the highway, Goronyo said the project represents one of the flagship infrastructure programmes of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

According to official remarks made during the visit, the minister noted that the highway goes beyond its role as a transportation project, describing it as a strategic economic corridor designed to stimulate trade, improve mobility and strengthen national development. He stated that the initiative aligns with the administration’s broader vision of building a more connected, productive and resilient economy while promoting environmental sustainability.

Goronyo explained that the super highway will create a vital link between the northern and southern regions of the country, opening up economic opportunities for communities along its route and facilitating the efficient movement of goods and people. He added that the road will connect with the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, forming an extensive transportation network expected to enhance commerce, improve security and support national integration.

Representing the Minister of Works, David Umahi, at the event, Goronyo commended President Tinubu for prioritising major infrastructure projects aimed at accelerating development and improving the nation’s economic outlook.

He disclosed that approximately 120 kilometres of the highway are currently under construction within the Sokoto axis, with about 20 kilometres already completed. He further revealed that solar-powered streetlights have been installed along sections of the continuously reinforced concrete pavement.

The minister also launched a strategic tree-planting programme along the corridor, describing it as a key component of sustainable infrastructure development. According to him, the initiative is expected to provide shelterbelts and windbreakers, reduce desert encroachment and soil erosion, enhance environmental sustainability and contribute to climate change mitigation efforts.

He emphasised that the programme would also help safeguard the highway infrastructure over the long term while promoting ecological balance in surrounding communities.

Goronyo praised Umahi, engineers of the Federal Ministry of Works and Hitech Construction Company for their contributions to the execution of the project. He also called on Nigerians, particularly residents of the North-West region, to support the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that ongoing infrastructure investments are expected to drive economic expansion, create opportunities and improve living standards nationwide.

He reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to delivering infrastructure projects capable of fostering sustainable development and prosperity for future generations.