The Minister of State for Works, Muhammad Goronyo, has lauded President Bola Tinubu for his steadfast commitment to infrastructural development despite Nigeria’s prevailing economic challenges.
Goronyo gave the commendation on Saturday during an inspection tour of the ongoing construction of the Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway alongside the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, in Sokoto and Kebbi states.
He described the project as a transformative initiative that will not only ease transportation but also boost trade and investment across West Africa.
According to him, “the superhighway, which spans over 1,000 kilometres through Sokoto, Kebbi, Niger, and other states before terminating in Badagry, Lagos, will serve as a critical link between Nigeria and neighbouring countries such as Niger and Mali.
“This project is not just for Sokoto, Kebbi, or Niger States. It is for the entire country, as it cuts across different regions before reaching Badagry in Lagos,” Goronyo said.
He emphasised the road’s strategic importance, noting its direct connection to the Illela International Market where construction begins. “It’s going to open up a lot of business opportunities along this corridor, linking Nigeria to international trade routes,” he added.
Describing the superhighway as a “game changer,” Goronyo appealed to host communities to support and protect the project.
“I appeal to the benefiting communities to look at what is being done and reward the President for his dedication to this region. We are not coming back here to campaign. Once this project is completed, it will speak for itself,” the minister stated.
Goronyo also commended Umahi for his dedication to President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in advancing infrastructure that will accelerate Nigeria’s economic growth.
The Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway is one of the flagship road projects under the Tinubu administration’s push to modernise Nigeria’s transport network.
Originally proposed as part of the Federal Government’s effort to improve north-south connectivity, the project is designed to link the Sahel region to Nigeria’s coastal trade hub in Badagry, Lagos.
Badagry, historically known as a major trade and cultural gateway, also hosts one of Nigeria’s busiest border posts with Benin Republic.
Experts have argued that a functional superhighway running from Sokoto through the North-West and North-Central down to Lagos would decongest existing routes, reduce travel time, and strengthen Nigeria’s competitiveness under the African Continental Free Trade Area.
In recent months, the Federal Ministry of Works has prioritised road construction and rehabilitation across the country, with Umahi repeatedly stressing that durable concrete roads will cut maintenance costs and guarantee longevity.
The Sokoto–Badagry corridor, officials say, will not only stimulate agriculture and cross-border trade but also attract industries along its route, potentially transforming several local economies.
