Former President Goodluck Jonathan on Monday inaugurated 18 township road projects constructed by Governor Bala Mohammed.
Jonathan, at the ceremony held at Bauchi State Radio Corporation (BRC) Yelwa, said that there is no any society that can achieve sustainable growth without reliable roads.
He said that roads remain critical for development, connecting communities, facilitating commerce, creating opportunities and promoting inclusive growth.
‘This 49.7km road network is more than asphalt. It is a celebration of visionary leadership, responsible governance, and purposeful investment in infrastructure that directly improves the quality of life of our people’, the former president noted.
But, Governor Bala Mohammed expressed his appreciation to the former president for coming to inaugurate 18 township roads in Bauchi State.
‘We are always encouraged by your enduring contribution to Nigeria’s democratic development and even our personal development as people who learn from you as your mentees. Your presence has added great honour and national significance to this occasion’, the governor said.
The governor said the N58.7 billion road projects were undertaken and are up to standard with durable pavement, drainage, culverts, road markings, and solar-powered street lighting on selected routes.
He further said that the impact of the 49.7km intervention was already evident in improved mobility, a boost to economic activity, and job creation.
‘Our desire was to develop about 5,000 kilometres of roads, but so far we have done about 3,000 kilometres since we came on board. Our infrastructure program is not about road construction. It is about opening economic opportunities, improving livelihoods, and laying a solid foundation for the prosperity and growth of Bauchi State,’ he noted.
He said that all the achievements would not have been possible without the support and cooperation of the good people the State, especially members of the State Assembly and the Commissioners.
‘The resources are not inexhaustible that we can do them all, but those who have not been able to get roads, I believe if you vote APM Governorship Candidate, Yakub, to come in 2027, he’s going to continue from where I will stop’, he added.
Also speaking at the occasion, Titus Saul Ketkukah, Professor and Commissioner for Works and Transport, said Governor Bala Mohammed had consistently demonstrated that good governance must translate into visible and meaningful development that directly improves the lives of citizens.
The Commissioner said Governor Bala’s investment in roads and other critical infrastructure is a clear indication of his determination to creating a better, more connected and economically vibrant Bauchi State.
‘As the Ministry responsible for works and transport, we are committed to supporting this vision by ensuring that all projects under our supervision are properly executed and delivered according to approved specifications and required standards’, he said.