Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal of Sokoto State has commissioned nine intra-city roads constructed by Jigawa State Government at the cost of N1.8 billion.
Governor Tambuwal described his host, Governor Muhammad Badaru Abubakar, as “prudent, transparent and accountable.”
He said the execution of the projects and so many others inherited and completed by Governor Badaru shows that good governance is at work in Jigawa State.
“I am here in Jigawa. I have seen your good work and I applaud it,” the Governor said, while commissioning the road in the presence of the Emir of Dutse, Alhaji Nuhu Muhammad Sanusi and other top government officials.
Emphasizing that Jigawa is a peaceful State, he said besides their political differences himself and Governor Badaru are not only friends but brothers whose cordial relationship has come a long way. Governor Badaru, he said “is my friend and Jigawa is my home.”
Alhaji Aminu Waziri Tambuwal urged the benefitting communities to take ownership of the projects through proper maintenance.
The Governor also urged the communities to “ensure regular clearance of all drains along the road to avoid flooding during rainy season.”
Earlier, Governor Badaru, who described his visitor as a “good man”, explained that the 744 Housing Estate, Sabuwar Takur and Yalwawa roads network, were part of the new roads projects he initiated apart from N53 billion road projects he took over from his predecessor at the inception of his administration.
According to him, all the projects, including those in other sectors, whose cost are put at over N39 billion, have been completed within the span of six years.
Governor Badaru said the road project was awarded to Messrs. Retrercha Nigeria Limited in December 2018, at N1.8 billion and completed in December 2019.
“This project could not be commissioned then due to Covid-19. The 744 Housing Estate/Sabuwar Takur/Yalwawa road is one of the numerous township roads constructed by our administration. We will continue to initiate projects for the good people of Jigawa,” the Governor said.
While commenting on the speculations in the State that he was planning to defect from the ruling party to PDP, Alhaji Muhammad Badaru Abubakar described such claims as most unfounded and malicious, stressing that the invitation of Tambuwal to commission the projects was unconnected with politics, rather based on mutual friendship and respect.
He explained that “above all, we, in Jigawa, don’t honour politics with bitterness,”
Speaking on behalf of benefiting communities, Alhaji Zubairu Barwa, commended the governor for the gesture, adding that the road would ease major difficulties residents faced, particularly during the rainy season.
He however, pleaded with the Governor to provide additional drains and streetlights, as well as complete the mosque initiated by members of the community.
“This road has really brought relief to the communities during the rainy season motorists find it very difficult to move in and out.