Nigeria’s Minister of State for Works, Barrister Bello Muhammad Goronyo, has revealed that President Bola Tinubu’s administration has inherited over 36,000 kilometers of roads across the country.
Speaking to journalists on Tuesday at his residence along Wurno Road, Sokoto, Goronyo stated that many of these roads have been in poor condition for over 40 years since their construction. He noted that asphalt roads typically last no more than 15 years, making maintenance and reconstruction necessary.
The minister acknowledged the deteriorated state of the roads but praised President Tinubu’s efforts to address the issue. He highlighted the recent re-award of the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano expressway reconstruction contract, which is expected to be completed within 14 months. The project will use rigid concrete instead of asphalt, ensuring a lifespan of over 50 years.
Additionally, the ongoing reconstruction of the Sokoto-Gusau-Zaria road is also utilizing concrete for durability. Goronyo commended the government’s commitment to improving road infrastructure and ensuring long-term solutions.
Beyond infrastructure, he praised President Tinubu’s collaborative approach with security agencies like the army, police, and DSS to combat insecurity, leading to significant improvements in some areas.
He also acknowledged the president’s dedication to the “Renewed Hope Agenda,” which focuses on economic growth, inclusivity, improved access to capital, and infrastructure development.
During the Sallah celebrations at his residence, Goronyo congratulated President Tinubu on Eid-el-Fitr and extended his greetings to Sokoto State Governor Alhaji Ahmed Aliyu, APC leader Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, and the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Muhammad Abubakar III.
He also commended Governor Aliyu’s efforts in supporting the people during Ramadan by distributing food and introducing measures to lower commodity prices.