Residents of Zaria and Sabon Gari Local Government Areas of Kaduna State have expressed excitement as contractors resumed work on long-abandoned road projects in the area.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the roads, neglected since 2011, are finally receiving attention under the administration of Gov. Uba Sani.
Mallam Danjuma Isa, a resident of U/Hauwa in Sabon Gari, shared his joy over the resumption of construction, highlighting the hardships endured by residents, especially during the rainy season.
“This will ease our daily struggles and improve connectivity in the community,” he said.
Another resident, Abubakar Mansur expressed gratitude for the progress, urging the government to ensure timely completion of the projects.
“This road has been a nightmare for years. We are hopeful this time will be different,” he prayed..
NAN repots that the optimism among residents grew after a site inspection led by Dr Abdullahi Baba-Ahmed, Managing Director of the Kaduna State Roads Agency (KADRA).
Speaking during the visit, Baba-Ahmed reaffirmed government’s commitment to completing the projects.
“These roads are critical, not just for Sabon Gari but also for neighboring areas and states, as they serve as key connections to regions like Jos,” he stated.
Baba-Ahmed revealed that only 20 per cent of the contract fees were paid by previous administrations, which caused delay, assuring that the remaining 80 per cent had been approved for immediate disbursement.
“The projects, including U/Hauwa and Dogon Bauchi roads, are set to be completed within four and 12 weeks, respectively.
“The governor has ensured adequate funding, so there are no financial constraints. This administration is committed to making Kaduna a hub of construction activity across all three senatorial zones,” Baba-Ahmed assured.
Rasheed Idris, a member representing Sabon Gari constituency, also commended the renewed efforts of the state government under Gov. Sani.
He stressed the strategic importance of the roads in decongesting Sokoto Road and linking Sabon Gari with Zaria local government area.
He said “This project was initiated in 2011 but stalled due to challenges. It’s an honour that it will now be completed during my tenure,” he said.
Aminu Shagali, the State Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, expressed delight, saying that he had a personal connection to the project.
“This initiative began during my time in the Kaduna State House of Assembly in 2011. It is heartwarming to see it finally nearing completion.
“The ongoing construction aligns with Gov. Sani’s directive to prioritise both inherited and new projects across the state,” he said.
According to him, residents are hopeful that this development will lead to a new era of infrastructure growth and improved livelihood. (NAN)
