Ndume Commends Progress On Gombe–Biu Highway, Seeks Expansion Of Northeast Road Network

Former Senate Leader and Senator representing Borno South, Ali Ndume, has welcomed the commencement of reconstruction and dualisation work on the 125-kilometre Gombe–Biu highway, describing the project as an important infrastructure intervention for the Northeast.

The project was officially launched on Thursday in Liji, Gombe State, during an event attended by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State, Minister of Works David Umahi, and officials of the construction firm handling the project.

In a statement signed by him, Ndume said the development followed years of advocacy for improved road infrastructure across the region. He recalled engaging previous administrations and relevant government agencies over the condition of the corridor and its implications for transportation, economic activity and security.

According to him, discussions dating back to 2019 focused on the deteriorating state of the Biu–Gombe Road and the need to prioritise rehabilitation due to its strategic role in linking communities and supporting regional development.

Ndume also referenced later engagements with the Ministry of Works on infrastructure financing and road rehabilitation initiatives, including proposals aimed at securing support for critical transport corridors in the Northeast.

He noted that concerns he raised earlier this year over road infrastructure allocation contributed to renewed attention on the corridor, which was later approved for intervention under the federal government’s infrastructure financing framework.

Speaking on the significance of the project, the senator said the rehabilitation and dualisation of the highway could improve movement of people and goods while strengthening economic links within the Northeast and beyond.

Ndume also called for further expansion of road infrastructure across the region, urging authorities to consider extending upgrades from Biu to Maiduguri and onward to Monguno, Ngala and Yola.

According to him, improved connectivity along these corridors would support economic activities, enhance access to border communities and strengthen mobility in areas affected by security challenges.

He described sustained investment in transport infrastructure as important to long-term regional development and integration.