The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for significant investment in infrastructural development, particularly his commitment towards ensuring execution of landmark projects that improve connectivity and ease transportation challenges across the nation.
NANS also hailed the foresight of the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, under the Renewed Hope Administration of President Tinubu, for identifying challenges confronting Nigerians, particularly initiating construction of new roads to ease transportation burden on commuters across Nigeria.
A statement by the NANS President, Comr. Akinteye Babatunde Afeez while inspecting the ongoing construction of the Northern Bypass in Kano State, which stretches through Katsina, Zamfara, and other northwestern states, connecting ten different institutions across the region, stated that the project is another significant project by the Ministry.
According to him, the inspection is in continuation of the ongoing Nationwide Tour by NANS to inspect and assess quality of roads leading campuses across the nation
He noted that the quality of the road construction and the pace of work by the contractors are highly commendable, adding that the project comprises a 69.4-kilometre dual carriageway, three flyovers, and seven bridges.
‘We equally appreciate the strategic consideration given to the accessibility of our campuses in the planning and construction of these roads. This particular project is of great importance to us as students, as it connects ten of our institutions across the northwestern region and is expected to ease transportation difficulties for students and other commuters upon completion.
‘It is equally important to commend and appreciate the government for compensating the farmers whose agricultural land was acquired for the construction of this road. According to reports, the area was previously used for farming before the project commenced.
‘The payment of compensation demonstrates consideration for the livelihoods of those affected by the project and reflects the importance of balancing infrastructural development with the interests of host communities.
‘As major stakeholders in nation-building, we are particular about the welfare of Nigerian students. As the most formidable pressure group in the country, our mandate transcends advocacy, as we also serve as watchdogs in society.
‘Thus, this ongoing Nationwide Federal Roads Project Tour leading to our campuses is crucial. We must evaluate government projects firsthand, particularly those that directly affect Nigerian students.
‘Today, we visited the ongoing construction of the Northern Bypass, a new road that connects Northern Nigeria and links ten universities across the northwestern region. Before now, there have been several reports of heavy traffic in the heart of Kano, particularly along routes connecting different states, as well as distress reports from Nigerian students travelling from various locations to their respective campuses.
‘However, upon completion, this bypass is expected to ease traffic congestion in the heart of Kano, particularly for students and other commuters plying the route to connect different states.
‘We therefore call on the government to intensify efforts and ensure that this road project is completed in earnest.’