Minister Hails ₦1.5trn Federal Highway Project in Niger State
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has commended the Federal Government’s planned ₦1.5 trillion reconstruction and dualisation of the Lambata–Bida–Mokwa–Makera–Kontagora highway in Niger State.
This was statement disclosed on Friday by Rabiu Ibrahim, Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister of Information and National Orientation.
Idris described the project as a major boost to agriculture, commerce and economic development in the state.
The minister, who chairs the Niger State Development Forum (NSDF), spoke on Friday in Abuja when he led members of the forum on a courtesy visit to Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago.
He praised the governor’s investments in agriculture, infrastructure, urban renewal and economic development, particularly his administration’s focus on mechanised farming, commercial agriculture and agro-industrial development.
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Idris also highlighted Niger State’s strategic importance to Nigeria, citing its agricultural potential, geographical location and contribution to national electricity supply through the Kainji, Jebba and Shiroro hydroelectric installations.
He said the federal highway project would improve access to farming communities, connect markets and industrial centres, and ease the movement of agricultural produce, goods and people.
“This is a landmark intervention in one of Nigeria’s most strategic agricultural and commercial corridors,” the minister said.
The groundbreaking ceremony for the project is scheduled for October 13, 2026, in Bida.
In his response, Bago thanked President Bola Tinubu for the Federal Government’s support for Niger State, including infrastructure projects, development financing and appointments to federal institutions.
He said the highway project would facilitate the movement of goods and people, support agricultural growth and create better conditions for businesses to thrive.
The governor expressed appreciation for the President’s continued support, saying the state had benefited from several federal interventions.
Idris also commiserated with the Niger State Government and residents over recent tragedies and security challenges. He acknowledged the efforts of the state and Federal Governments, alongside security agencies, to protect lives and property.
By PRNigeria
