By Mashe Umaru Gwamna
Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, has expressed satisfaction with the quality and pace of work on the 162.3-kilometre Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway, Section III in Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo States.
Umahi gave the commendation after inspecting the project. He praised the contractor, Hitech Construction Company, and ministry staff for maintaining high standards in line with engineering specifications.
This was contained in a statement signed by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Mohammed A. Ahmed.
The Minister reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to delivering world-class infrastructure under the Renewed Hope Agenda. He said the administration’s road programme is restoring confidence in the sector and driving sustainable economic growth.
“If past administrations had built roads like this, we would not be talking about roads today,” he said.
Addressing criticisms from opposition groups, Umahi described them as baseless. He said the government remains focused on projects that will transform the nation’s landscape and economy.
He also dismissed claims that the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway is responsible for flooding in Lagos. He explained that the project has adequate drainage systems and engineering measures to address environmental concerns. He blamed poor environmental practices, especially indiscriminate waste dumping in drains.
Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, described the 1,068-kilometre Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway as one of Nigeria’s most strategic projects. He said it would boost trade, improve transportation, and strengthen cross-border links with Benin and Niger.
Chairman, House Committee on Works, Hon. Akin Alabi, reaffirmed parliamentary support for President Bola Tinubu’s four legacy road projects. He urged MDAs to collaborate for timely delivery.
Also, Chairman, Senate Committee on Works, Senator Allwell Onyesoh, praised the scale and quality of work. He appealed to Nigerians to be patient, noting the highways would become lasting national assets.
Project Engineer, Engr. Oyewande Aliu, said about 25km of the right carriageway and 9.5km of the left had been completed. He assured that despite terrain challenges, work is on schedule for completion within 26 months.
Speaking for stakeholders, SSA-P on Community Engagement, North West, Abdullahi Tanko Yakasai, said the highway would connect communities, enhance security, and foster national unity. He added that solar streetlights and dams are planned for some sections.
The team also inspected the ongoing reconstruction of Sango Ota-Idiroko Road, Section I. Umahi directed the Engineer to report to his office over the slow pace of work.
