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FG Insists on Speed and Quality as Goronyo Inspects Sokoto–Gusau–Zaria Road Project

Published

8 months ago

January 27, 2026

Joel Ajayi

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its determination to ensure the timely and high-quality delivery of the Sokoto–Gusau–Funtau–Zaria Road Project, warning that contractors who fail to meet agreed timelines and specifications risk sanctions.

The Honourable Minister of State for Works, Rt. Hon. Bello Muhammad Goronyo, Esq., stated this on Sunday, 25th January, 2026, during an on-the-spot assessment of reconstruction works along key sections of the 750-kilometre highway spanning Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina and Kaduna States.

Speaking during the inspection of sections from Dange to Shuni in Sokoto State, and onward through Talata Mafara, Maru and Bungudu in Zamfara State, the Minister stressed that the Federal Government would not tolerate undue delays on projects of critical national importance.

According to him, the inspection exercise was conducted in line with the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to ensure strict compliance with approved standards, value for money, and early delivery of projects meant to ease transportation challenges and stimulate economic activities.

“I am personally leading senior officials of the Ministry across these states to verify the quality of work being delivered and to ensure that contractors live up to their responsibilities,” Rt. Hon. Goronyo said.

He added, “I am also representing the Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, GCON, to assess the level of work done and the degree of compliance with approved specifications.”

While noting that some sections of the project recorded commendable progress, the Minister expressed concern over the overall pace of execution, stressing the need for contractors to accelerate work in order to reduce hardship faced by road users.

He cited the Sokoto–Tureta–Mafara section, which has attained about 27 per cent completion, as relatively encouraging, but expressed dissatisfaction with the Mafara–Maru–Gusau section, where progress stands at approximately 16 per cent, describing it as unsatisfactory.

The Minister warned that the Federal Government is prepared to restructure the project scope on underperforming sections, including restricting contractors to shorter distances and reassigning outstanding portions to more competent firms if noticeable improvement is not achieved.

Rt. Hon. Goronyo explained that earlier challenges linked to compensation for affected properties had been resolved, crediting the intervention of Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State for facilitating payments and ensuring community cooperation.

He also acknowledged the role of the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, in coordinating security support that has enhanced safety for workers and equipment along the corridor.

Reiterating the Federal Government’s broader infrastructure strategy, the Minister noted that the adoption of concrete pavement technology under the Tinubu administration is aimed at delivering more durable, cost-effective, and long-lasting road infrastructure nationwide.

He further highlighted the ongoing 1,068-kilometre Sokoto–Badagry Super Highway Project as a landmark initiative that revives the long-standing vision of former President Shehu Shagari, adding that it would significantly enhance connectivity, boost trade, and promote national integration.

Rt. Hon. Goronyo commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for infrastructure development the priority it deserves, describing road infrastructure as a critical enabler of economic growth, national integration and shared prosperity.

He noted that the President’s unwavering commitment to revitalising key transport corridors across the country is already yielding tangible results under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Goronyo also praised the Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, GCON, for his hard work, visionary leadership and dedication to delivering the mandate of the Ministry, adding that the ongoing reforms and adoption of durable construction standards reflect a clear focus on value, sustainability and long-term impact.

“The Renewed Hope Agenda is about results. Nigerians deserve roads that last and projects that are completed on time, and this administration is committed to delivering just that,” the Minister stated.

The inspection tour was accompanied by top management staff of the Ministry of Works, including Mr. U.B. Ekong, Director, Highways Construction and Rehabilitation, and Mr. C.A. Ogbuagu, Director, Highways Planning and Development.

The Minister and his team also engaged with host communities, assuring residents that remaining compensation and project-related concerns would be addressed to ensure smooth and uninterrupted execution of the project.
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Nigeria at 66: ‘We Must Not Lose Faith in Nigeria’ — FCC Boss Omidiran

Published

16 hours ago

October 1, 2026

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Honorable Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, has called on Nigerians to use the occasion of the nation’s 66th Independence Anniversary to renew their faith in Nigeria, strengthen national unity and recommit themselves to building a more inclusive and prosperous country.

In her 66th Independence Day message, Hon. Omidiran described October 1 as more than a celebration of freedom, saying the anniversary provides an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey, acknowledge its progress and challenges, and renew the collective determination to build a nation where every citizen has a sense of belonging.

According to the FCC Executive Chairman, the Federal Character Principle remains particularly important to the quest for national cohesion because equitable representation promotes a sense of ownership and confidence in the Nigerian project.

“Nigeria is a nation of great diversity and
enormous potential. Our responsibility is to ensure that this diversity becomes a bridge that connects us rather than a barrier that separates us. Every Nigerian deserves to feel that he or she belongs to this country and has a role to play in its development,” Omidiran said.

The FCC boss called on government institutions at all levels to remain committed to fairness, equity, accountability and inclusive governance, while urging citizens to support efforts aimed at strengthening national institutions and promoting peaceful coexistence.

“We must not lose faith in Nigeria. The challenges before us are real, but so are the opportunities and the enormous human and natural resources available to us. Every citizen has a responsibility to contribute his or her own quota to building the Nigeria we desire,” she stated.

The FCC Executive Chairman also urged young Nigerians to remain committed to acquiring knowledge and skills, entrepreneurship, innovation, sports and other productive ventures, describing the youth as critical stakeholders in the country’s future.

“As we celebrate 66 years of independence, let us remember that the Nigeria we want cannot be built by government alone. It requires the commitment of all of us – leaders and citizens, young and old, from every part of the federation. Together, we can build a Nigeria where justice, fairness, opportunity and peace are available to all,” she said.

Omidiran reaffirmed the FCC’s commitment to the effective discharge of its constitutional mandate and to supporting efforts that promote equitable representation and inclusive national development across the federation.

The former lawmaker wished Nigerians at home and abroad a peaceful and memorable 66th Independence Anniversary, praying for continued peace, stability, prosperity and progress for the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“Our differences should never be greater than our common identity as Nigerians. Let us continue to choose unity over division, service over self-interest and hope over despair. The Nigeria of our dreams is possible if we all play our part,” Omidiran said.

“On behalf of the Federal Character Commission, I congratulate all Nigerians on this 66th Independence Anniversary. May this occasion renew our patriotism, strengthen our unity and inspire us to work together for a stronger, more equitable and prosperous Nigeria. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” she added.

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