Kebbi and Sokoto States have strengthened their long-standing relationship as Kebbi State governor, Dr. Nasir Idris, commissioned the 14.5-kilometre Zawaiyya–Unguwar Maidaji–Gwangwan Dikko Road in Tambuwal Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
The road, constructed by the Sokoto State Government at a cost of N4.53 billion under Governor Ahmad Aliyu’s 9-Smart Innovative Agenda, is expected to improve connectivity, ease transportation and boost economic activities in the predominantly agrarian communities along the route.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Governor Idris thanked his Sokoto counterpart for inviting him to perform the inauguration, describing the gesture as a demonstration of the cordial relationship between the two neighbouring states.
He said investment in road infrastructure remains critical to improving the socio-economic well-being of citizens, noting that rural roads provide access to schools, healthcare facilities and markets while supporting agricultural and commercial activities.
According to the Kebbi governor, roads are the backbone of development because they connect communities and create opportunities for economic growth.
Beyond commissioning the project, Idris also laid the foundation for two additional road projects in Shagari Local Government Area. The projects include the 7.5-kilometre Kajiji–Sanyinnawal Road and the 13.5-kilometre Mandera–Darin Guru–Jabo Road.
He commended Governor Ahmad Aliyu for prioritising road infrastructure across Sokoto State, observing that both Sokoto and Kebbi are largely agrarian states that require quality road networks to support farming and rural development.
Idris urged the Sokoto State Government to sustain its infrastructure drive and called on communities to safeguard public assets.
“We must develop the culture of protecting public infrastructure as they are provided with the resources of the people,” he said.
In his remarks, Governor Ahmad Aliyu, praised Idris for honouring the invitation within 48 hours and described the relationship between Sokoto and Kebbi as that of “one indivisible entity.”
He also acknowledged the support of development partners in advancing infrastructure development across the state.
Aliyu said the newly commissioned road would improve access to markets, create socio-economic opportunities and enhance the livelihoods of residents, adding that his administration remained committed to expanding road infrastructure.
The governor disclosed that several road projects had already been completed and commissioned, while others were at different stages of execution.
He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing what he described as credible leadership and pledged the continued support of the Sokoto State Government for the President’s people-oriented programmes and policies.
