From Ibrahim Sidi Muh’d, Gusau
Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has assured security agencies of the unwavering support and cooperation of his administration as well as to work closely with the Federal Government, the Armed Forces, and other security stakeholders to strengthen security operations.
The Governor who was represented by the SSG, Abubakar Nakwada, also pledged improved logistics and welfare, and enhanced intelligence-driven strategies aimed at safeguarding lives and property across the state, stressing that, the families of fallen heroes—especially the widows, widowers, and children left behind should be given needed support.
“We share in your pain and loss. Your loved ones did not die in vain. They died in service to humanity and in defence of our collective future. I assure you that the Zamfara State Government will continue to support initiatives aimed at improving the welfare and wellbeing of families of fallen heroes.
“This annual remembrance is not merely ceremonial, it is a sacred duty and a moment of deep reflection. It reminds us of the courage, sacrifice, and unwavering patriotism of our gallant officers and soldiers who laid down their lives so that we may live in peace and security.
“As we laid wreaths today in honour of our fallen heroes, let us also recommit ourselves to the ideals for which they stood: unity, selflessness, discipline, and patriotism. Let us work together, across ethnic, religious, and political lines, to promote peace, tolerance, and mutual understanding in our dear state and nation.”
Engr. Umahi also gave insights into other key projects, the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, noting that Session 1 in Lagos is approximately 85% completed, Session 2 between Lagos and Ogun is about 40% done, and Sessions 3A and 3B in Cross River and Akwa Ibom are advancing smoothly. Preparations for Session 5 are underway, while Sessions 4A and 4B in the Ogun–Ondo axis will ultimately connect Lagos to Ogun, Ondo, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and end in Cross River. He confirmed that all sections of the East–West Road are under active construction and are expected to be completed next year.
The Minister expressed appreciation to the National Assembly and the Peace Committee for their support and resilience during earlier project disputes, and credited President Tinubu for directing the Ministry to allow the contractor to complete the project despite the cost implications. He also announced that the President is expected to visit Bodo and Bonny by March next year, noting that such visits often accelerate development and uplift communities.
He concluded with a call for peace, prosperity, and lasting progress in Rivers State and the Niger Delta, urging a strong partnership between Julius Berger and the Ministry as the road reaches its final stages.
The Coordinating Director, Highways (Bridges and Design), Engr. Musa Sa’idu described the Bodo–Bonny Road as a bridge-dominated engineering landmark featuring over 3 kilometres of bridges, including nearly 1.2 km of main bridge and major structures such as the 502-metre Alpha Creek Bridge. He emphasised the technical complexity of the project, comparing it to iconic structures such as the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, the Second Niger Bridge, as well as the Third Mainland Bridge.
Earlier the Engineers’ Representative (ER), Engr. Udom Joseph, provided technical context, highlighting the road’s design, which includes flexible pavements on sand-filled embankments, rigid pavements within Bonny town, and nine mini-bridges, in addition to three major bridges. He explained that the project has undergone several technical adjustments and financial revisions to address environmental challenges, with the original completion date set for August 2022.
Also, in a Goodwill Statement, a royal representative, on behalf of the King of Gokana Kingdom praised the Minister and acknowledged the support of the Rivers State Government, Chiefs of Gokana, Bori, and the wider Ogoni and Bonny communities, describing the project as monumental in scale and of immense benefit to Rivers State and Nigeria, at large.
