The Federal Government has commenced the reconstruction and dualisation of the Lambata–Bida–Mokwa–Makera–Kontagora Federal Highway in Niger State, with the ₦1.8 trillion project expected to improve transportation, strengthen agricultural activities, expand trade and create employment opportunities.
The project was officially flagged off on Tuesday in Bida, Niger State, as part of the Federal Government’s infrastructure development programme under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described the highway as a major investment in the country’s economic development, noting that improved road connectivity would help link farming communities to markets and make it easier for businesses to transport goods to consumers.
Speaking on behalf of members of the Federal Executive Council at the ceremony, Idris said the project would open up economic opportunities across Niger State and neighbouring areas by improving the movement of people, agricultural produce and commercial goods.
He commended President Tinubu for prioritising infrastructure development and praised Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago for his efforts in securing federal support for the state’s development priorities. He also acknowledged the contributions of the Minister of Works, David Umahi, to the implementation of the Federal Government’s road infrastructure programme.
Idris maintained that the investment reflected the administration’s commitment to improving living conditions and expanding economic opportunities through major infrastructure projects. He said the highway would generate employment during construction and provide longer-term opportunities for transport operators, small business owners, young people and entrepreneurs.
The reconstruction and dualisation project covers the Lambata–Bida–Mokwa–Makera–Kontagora corridor, connecting communities and commercial centres across Niger State. Once completed, the highway is expected to improve access to agricultural markets, facilitate the transportation of goods and support economic activities along the route.
At the ceremony, Governor Bago thanked President Tinubu for supporting Niger State through infrastructure projects and other government interventions. He expressed confidence that the investments would strengthen the state’s economy and improve the livelihoods of residents.
Bago also linked the Federal Government’s infrastructure investments to the President’s electoral prospects, expressing confidence that Tinubu would secure a landslide victory in Niger State in the 2027 general elections.
The Minister of Works, David Umahi, also highlighted the Federal Government’s wider road development programme, noting that Niger State accounts for a significant share of ongoing and planned federal road projects across the country.
The project is expected to be executed using reinforced concrete pavement under the Federal Government’s infrastructure tax-credit scheme, with the Dangote Group participating in the arrangement. The use of concrete pavement is intended to provide a durable road surface, while construction is expected to commence at multiple locations to support progress along the corridor.
Idris urged residents and communities along the route to cooperate with contractors, protect the project’s right of way and safeguard public infrastructure to support successful implementation.
The highway project represents a significant infrastructure investment in a state with substantial agricultural potential. However, its long-term economic impact will depend on effective execution, timely completion and the delivery of a durable road that meets the needs of communities, farmers, traders and other road users.
If successfully completed, the project could strengthen commercial connections across Niger State, improve the movement of agricultural produce and create opportunities for businesses and workers along the corridor.
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