By Femi Oyelola
On 29th May, 2023 Senator Uba Sani, was sworn in as the Executive Governor of Kaduna State.
Upon his inauguration, he unfolded his administration’s seven-point agenda, the acronym SUSTAIN, which spans the entire spectrum of security and human capital development.
The Manifesto is a social contract between the Governor and the good people of Kaduna state.
SUSTAIN will strengthen Safety and Security, Upgrade Infrastructure, Strengthen Institutions, and enhance Trade and Investment.
Over one year later, through a combination of ingenious thinking and a genuine craving to offer the good people of Kaduna State progressive governance at its best, the Uba Sani administration has caught a niche for itself as a people-centered government, especially in the Roads and infrastructure development.
According to the Managing Director of Kaduna State Roads Agency (KADRA). Dr. Abdullahi Baba Ahmed’s central policy thrust of Governor Uba Sani’s administration is Rural Transformation aimed at revitalizing the rural economy and bridging the urban-rural divide.
Dr Ahmed added that by investing in massive infrastructure projects, the State is not only enhancing connectivity but also curbing rural-urban migration.
He added that these developments have positively stimulated economic activities in rural areas, leading to a reduction in post-harvest losses and facilitating the easy transportation of farm produce to markets. This, in turn, empowers our farmers and strengthens the local economy.
The KADRA boss opined that the administration recognizes that well-constructed roads are the backbone of economic activity, connecting farmers to markets, schools, and healthcare facilities.
He stressed that the achievements the government has celebrated thus far are not just about roads and bridges; they represent” our commitment to building a more connected, prosperous, and inclusive Kaduna State. Together, under the leadership of Governor Uba Sani, we will continue to pave the way for a brighter future for all our citizens, inspiring hope and optimism.”
“Today, I am pleased to share some of the important projects initiated by Governor Uba Sani, which have made significant progress and are at various stages of completion. These projects showcase our unwavering commitment to building a robust road network across Kaduna State and ensuring a better future for all.
“Construction of a 22.5km Asphaltic Road from Gwantu through Kibam to Godogodo: This important road is a transformative development for the people of Southern Kaduna.
“This vital infrastructure not only links Sanga Local Government Area (LGA) to Jemaa LGA but also significantly enhances accessibility for over 65 farming communities along its route.
“By facilitating the movement of goods and services, the road is poised to boost agricultural productivity, reduce travel time, foster economic growth, and improve the overall quality of life for residents of the area.
“Furthermore, the inclusion of two major water bridges underscores the road’s importance in overcoming geographical barriers, thereby promoting regional connectivity and social integration within Southern Kaduna.
“.Reconstruction/Upgrading of Asphaltic Access Roads within the Old Panteka Market, Kaduna State (Lemu, Enugu, Malam Madori Roads): These roads are vital for stimulating economic activities within the Old Panteka Market and promise a brighter economic future for the region.
“By improving access, we are empowering local traders, enhancing commerce, and creating jobs, ultimately driving economic growth in the region.
“Reconstruction of a 6km asphaltic road from Rafin Guza to Hayin Na’iya to Malalin Gabas to Kukumaki: This road links the ongoing construction at the KASU Permanent Site and is a testament to our progress.
“ It facilitates smoother tranportation for the general public in the area and enhances access for farmers, enabling them to transport their produce to markets more efficiently, thereby increasing their income.
“Construction of a 13km Access Road Connecting Turawa to Dinya through Da’a, Kurungupi, and Kadage in Soba Local Government Area. This project is crucial for linking several communities, ensuring the masses and farmers can easily access markets and services. It will significantly reduce travel time and transportation costs, fostering economic opportunities for residents.
“Construction of a 5.8km Access Road from Gwaraji to Wusar: This road connects Igabi and Kajuru Local Government Areas, facilitating movement between these Local Governments. It is designed to enhance agricultural activities by providing farmers with better access to markets and resources, ultimately improving their livelihoods.
“Construction of a 15km Access Road Connecting Kasuwar Magani to Wusar in Kajuru Local Government Area: This road serves as a critical link for farmers in the area, allowing them to transport their goods to larger markets. Improved access will increase agricultural productivity and economic resilience for local farming communities.
“Reconstruction and Upgrading of Ja Abdulkadir Asphaltic Road, Unguwan Rimi, Kaduna: This project enhances connectivity within the city, improving access to essential services and boosting local businesses. It is a testament to our commitment to urban development and infrastructure improvement.
“ Construction of a 5.525km Asphaltic Road from Airport Road to Tudun Biri Community: This road enhances connectivity for residents and businesses, making it easier for them to access the airport and other vital services. It is a significant step toward improving the overall infrastructure in the area.
“Completion of Abandoned PAN Drive to Kachia Road: This small but critical section of the road was completed under Governor Uba Sani’s administration. It is a vital connection for commuters traveling to Abuja from the Northwest and Northeastern States, ensuring smoother transit and enhancing regional connectivity.
“ Construction of a 35km Access Road from Gadan Gayan through Gwaraji to Kujama Junction: This expansive project links Igabi to Chikun Local Government Areas, facilitating movement and trade between these local governments and opening up new economic opportunities for communities along the route. It connects more than 70 communities within the area.
“Rehabilitation and Repair of Critical Infrastructure: We have also focused on repairing collapsed culverts and retaining walls on key roads, including Abuja Road in Rigasa and College Road by Gwamna Road. These repairs are essential for maintaining road safety and ensuring uninterrupted access for all users.
“Reconstruction of a 14.8km Asphaltic Ring Access Road from Danbushiya Junction to Danhonou 2: This road connects several communities in Millennium City, enhancing access to markets, schools, and healthcare facilities. It is a vital lifeline for residents, promoting economic activities and improving their quality of life.
“. Reconstruction of a 35.6km Road from Bagoma to Gagumi: This project connects multiple communities in Birnin Gwari LGA, facilitating easier movement for farmers and traders. It is expected to boost agricultural productivity in the area significantly.
“ Reconstruction of a 21.95km Asphaltic Road from Madauchi to Kafanchan: This road links Jema‘a to Zangon Kataf LGAs, enhancing connectivity for rural communities and facilitating access to essential services and markets.
“ Reconstruction of a 21.85km asphaltic road from Pambeguwa to Kauru: This project links Kubau and Kauru LGAs, promoting trade and economic activities between these local governments. It also facilitates the movement of Farm Produce to Markets.
“Completion of Sultan—Surame Road: This road connects Shehu Laminu Road in Ungwan Rimi, enhancing residents’ access and improving connectivity within the urban area.
“ Completion of 1.78km 300 Bed Hospital Asphaltic Crescent Road: This road provides critical access to the new hospital, ensuring that residents can access healthcare services quickly and efficiently.
“ One of the landmark projects currently underway is the construction of about fifteen (15) Networks of Roads and bridges connecting College Road Unguwan Dosa to Millennium City. This vital infrastructure is being constructed under the Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) arrangement and will link hundreds of communities, significantly enhancing economic prosperity in these areas.
“ By improving access and connectivity, we are not only facilitating the movement of people but also fostering opportunities for trade and commerce that will benefit our entire state.
“Construction and Upgrading of 1.3km Estate Access Road to State House Lodges, Kawo: This project enhances access for visitors and residents and promotes the area as a welcoming destination.
“ Reconstruction of Water Intake Asphaltic Road and Maintenance of Maigero-Narayi Junction Road: These projects are vital for ensuring access to the masses around the Barnawa axis and improving connectivity for Chikun Local Government Area residents.
“Construction of Anguwan Muazu Township Roads: These roads are strategically located in a densely populated area, directly benefiting the masses. By improving access to essential services and markets, we are enhancing the quality of life for residents and fostering economic activities within the township.
“ Construction of a 21.7 km Access Road from Anchau – Gadaz – Palla Road: This road will significantly enhance connectivity for rural communities, facilitating better access to markets and essential services.
“Construction of a 31 km Access Road from Ikara—Sayasaya—Palla: This project will improve transportation options for farmers and traders and promote sustainable economic growth in the region. This road will not only connect Local Governments within the state but also connect to neighboring states such as Kano.
“Construction of a 2.6 km Access Road from Makabun Aya – Lagum: This road enhances connectivity for rural communities, facilitating easier access to markets and services.
“ Construction of a 2.6 km Access Road from Tachira to Kadarko: This road is essential for improving access for farming communities and promoting agricultural productivity in the area.
“ Construction of a 28.7km Access Road from Tachira – Mayi– Kawon- Assu: This project will significantly enhance transportation options for farmers, enabling them to reach markets more efficiently.
“ Construction of a 12 km Access Road from Giwa to Yakawada: This road will improve connectivity for rural communities, facilitating access to essential services and markets.
“Construction of a 5 km Access Road from Sabo—Unguwan Barde—Juji— Gimbiya: This project enhances residents’ access, promotes economic activities, and improves the quality of life.
“ Construction of a 13.4 km Access Road from Kwanar Parakwai—Kofato— Ila: This road will provide critical access for farming communities and facilitate the transportation of goods to markets.
“Reconstruction of 5.2km Feeder Road at Dan-Makwarwa to Hunkuyi, Kudan LGA: This road will facilitate easier access to markets and services for local farmers, thereby enhancing agricultural productivity and trade within the area.
“ Reconstruction of 13km Feeder Road at Wambai-Anchau-Kunkumi, Ikara LGA: By improving connectivity, this road project will not only support local businesses and encourage investment but also promote Agriculture, leading to job creation and significant economic growth in Ikara LGA.
“Reconstruction of 5.2km Feeder Road at Kwanar Narbi-Jura-Maresu, Lere LGA: This road project will not only enhance access to Agricultural, healthcare, and education facilities but also significantly improve the quality of life for residents in these communities, thereby enhancing agricultural productivity and trade within the areas.
“Reconstruction of 9km Feeder Road at Zuntu-Falanki-Karreh-Lahadin Maigamo, Kubau LGA: Improved transportation options will facilitate the movement of goods and services, boosting trade and economic activities in the areas.
“ Reconstruction of 10km Feeder Road at Takalafiya Road, Soba LGA: This project will enhance road safety and reduce travel time, making it easier for residents to access essential services and markets.
“. Reconstruction of 1km Asphatic Road at Masallacin Magajin Gari-Kofar Gidan Abu Iyal-Masallacin Mai Anguwa-Capt Shehu Iyal House-Bakin Titi-Izala Jumuat Mosque, Zaria LGA: This road will improve local accessibility, promoting community engagement and facilitate the movement of people during social gatherings.
“Reconstruction of 1km Asphatic Road at Tsami Hayin Ojo-Leather Research Road, Sabon Gari LGA: This project enhances residents’ access, promotes economic activities, and improves the quality of life of the people of the area.
“ Reconstruction of 8.5km Feeder Road at Dorayi-Kurmin Kogi, Makarfi LGA: This project will promote agricultural development by easing the transport of produce to markets, benefiting local farmers.
“Construction of a 9km Feeder Road from Gwantu to Gani Madaki, Sanga LGA: This road will enhance connectivity between communities, foster social cohesion, and enable easier access to essential services.
“Construction of an 8km Feeder Road at T.C Dem – Kumkum Daji – Zakwa Garaje Road, Kauru LGA: This project will significantly improve transportation efficiency, reducing travel time and costs for residents.
“ Construction of 1km Surface Dressing Drainages and Culverts, Zangon Kataf LGA: This infrastructure will help manage stormwater effectively, reducing flooding risks and protecting local properties and agriculture.
“ Construction of an 8km Feeder Road at the Flour Mill by Zunuruk, Jemaa LGA: This road will facilitate access to the flour mill, support local businesses, and enhance food security in the region.
“Construction of an 11km Feeder Road at Gnami—Lasanta—Kuchikau— Iddah village, Kagarko LGA: Improved Road access will enhance economic opportunities for residents and promote trade and local entrepreneurship.
“ Construction of 750-meter Surface Dressing Drainages with Concrete Reinforcement, Jeba LGA: This drainage project will improve water management in the area, reducing erosion and enhancing agricultural productivity.
“Construction of 8km Feeder Road, Kauru LGA: This road will improve access to markets and services, fostering economic development and improving the livelihoods of residents.
Construction of a 9km Feeder Road in Kachia LGA: This road will support local commerce and agriculture and provide residents with better access to essential goods and services.
“ Construction of Sabon Tasha to Juji Road: This project is strategically located in a densely populated area and directly benefits the masses. By improving access to essential services and markets, we are enhancing the quality of life for residents and fostering economic activities within the township.
“ Reconstruction of Stadium Roundabout to Station Roundabout Road: This vital road connects various sections of Kaduna City, facilitating seamless travel for commuters within and outside the state. It will enhance connectivity for residents, non-residents, and businesses and boost economic growth and development.
“In line with its vision for transformative growth, the Kaduna State Government, led by Governor Uba Sani, is driving development through the construction of roads and critical infrastructure in key areas such as the Ung. Dosa Layout off Yan Awaki Road, Unguwan Rimi Layout Off Gobarau Road, and New Layout Off Yakubu Gowon Road, among many others. These developmental projects will enhance population growth and social development, improve the quality of life for citizens, and position Kaduna State as a hub for economic growth and sustainable development.”
Dr Abdullahi Baba Ahmed observed that these projects reflect Governor Uba Sani’s unwavering commitment to enhancing road infrastructure in Kaduna State.
He harped that the benefits of these initiatives extend beyond mere connectivity; they will open up the state, foster economic growth, improve access to essential services, and elevate the overall quality of life for our citizens.
“As the Managing Director of the Kaduna State Roads Agency, I am honored to play a role in this transformative journey. I encourage all stakeholders—community leaders, local businesses, and citizens—to continue supporting this administration’s efforts as we work together to build a better, more connected Kaduna State.”
Reacting to this development, some residents who spoke with our correspondent during an assessment tour of the project expressed their optimism that the road, if constructed would also foster economic development in the area and pave the way for inter-State trading.
A motorist who identified himself as Lazarus Timothy appreciated the state governor, Uba Sani, for kick-starting the road construction.
He urged the government not to delay in completing the construction as such had been the usual rhetoric concerning the road.
“This is a dream come true for us. The road has been in such a bad state for years.
“We are grateful for the government’s commitment to improving our lives. We hope that the construction will not linger too long to alleviate us of the daily hardship encountered on this road.
“We also hope that this will not be a lip promise as we have always had in the past with many unfulfilled promises,” he said.
Another motorist, Alhaji Tuduwada Dan Kaji, said the former condition of the road has negatively impacted businesses and many others in Ikara, Kubau, and neighboring Kano State.
The poor infrastructure, according to him, has made it difficult for farmers to reach local customers to purchase their products.
He expressed delight that the road construction will significantly improve access to this community and boost the local economy.
“ I am so excited to hear that the Kaduna State Government under the leadership of Senator Uba Sani has kicked start the road construction.
“The road has been in a terrible state for years, making my journey stressful and time-consuming. I can’t wait to see the positive impact this project will have on our community,” he said
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