How Akwanga–Maiduguri Highway Will Transform Northern Economy — Gombe Governor

Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has described the Akwanga–Jos–Bauchi–Gombe–Biu–Maiduguri Super Highway as a transformative infrastructure project capable of unlocking Northern Nigeria’s economic potential through improved trade, connectivity and investment.

Speaking on Wednesday during the official flag-off of the highway in Akwanga, Nasarawa State, Governor Yahaya said the project would significantly accelerate economic activities, reduce travel time, enhance security and create jobs while linking markets, businesses and communities across several geopolitical zones.

“The significance of this project cannot be overstated. Beyond providing a modern road network, it will facilitate trade, reduce travel time, enhance security, create jobs and connect markets, businesses and communities across several geopolitical zones,” the governor said.

The groundbreaking ceremony was performed on behalf of President Bola Tinubu by the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, who said the highway aligns with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda and its commitment to delivering infrastructure that promotes economic growth, national unity and improved living standards.

Governor Yahaya commended President Tinubu for prioritising infrastructure as a catalyst for national development, describing the super highway as a legacy investment that would strengthen regional integration and expand economic opportunities across Northern Nigeria.

Officials said the project aimed at linking Nigeria’s coastal, savannah and Sahel corridors to improve the movement of people and goods. The Federal Government had recently flagged off the Gombe–Biu section of the same highway.

Earlier, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, said the road would be constructed to the highest engineering standards and would improve logistics, ease the movement of agricultural produce and manufactured goods, reduce transportation costs and open new economic frontiers along the corridor.