We’ve constructed rural roads to improve citizens’ wellbeing – Bauchi Govt
By Samuel Luka
The Bauchi state government has stated that a lot of rural roads have been constructed while others are on progress across the state in order to improve the wellbeing of the citizens.
Speaking during a Ministerial Press briefing at the state Secretariat Bauchi on Tuesday, Hon. Commissioner Ministry of Rural Development and Special Duties, Honourable Faruk Mustapha said the move was part of Governor Mohammed’s pursuit of sustainable rural development.
He said over the past year, the ministry has made significant strides in improving the lives of rural residents and addressing the unique challenges faced by communities outside urban centers.
“One of our key achievements has been the successful implementation of infrastructure development projects in rural areas, including the construction of roads, bridges, and rural electricity networks”, he said.
According to him, the critical infrastructure projects have not only improved connectivity and access to essential services but have also enhanced the overall quality of life for rural residents.
The Commissioner maintained that the initiative has the rural population to thrive and prosper in their communities.
He added that the ministry has also focused on promoting sustainable agriculture practices and enhancing security in rural areas.
The Commissioner who further noted that the achievement has been attained through targeted initiatives and partnerships with stakeholders by provision of access Road which supported farmers to increasing their productivity, adopting modern farming techniques, and accessing markets for their produce.
He said that the efforts have not only boosted the agricultural sector but have also improved the livelihoods of farmers/rural dwellers and contributed to economic growth in rural communities.
The Commissioner expressed confidence that the ministry will continue to build on the recorded achievements and strive for even greater progress in an effort to promote sustainable rural development and inclusive growth.
He noted that the present administration has repaired/refurbished (3) Hilux for the supervision to in ongoing and prospective Rural Roads, including the approval of the release of N1.500,000.00 for successful Kick start of the repairs of the Ministry Heavy Duty Machines for the provision of Rural Access Roads.
He disclosed that the ministry has secured to approval for the repair or re-construction of Culvert on Chinade-Gangai Feeder Road worth N44,656,680.003 Naira awaiting releases and to be executed through direct labour.
He said, as part of the prioritized roads, Charachara – Ragwam – Magwanshi – Lafiya 30.33 km, Mainamaji Badara – Kuka – Pali 25.8 km, Akuyam Gwaram – Hardawa 18.88 km roads were selected to be upgraded based on socio-economic criteria as well as linkages to Agro-logistics centres.
According to him, Nabordo Jita – Bakin Kogi 4.64 km, L/Katagum – Tula – Magiresha 7.31, Maraba Zaranda – Zaranda Gari 1.5 km, Gadar Maiwa – Zakara 5.51 km, Alkaleri- Kurba 8.89, Lariski Zangoma 11.34 km, Soro – Duma 7.52 km, Giade Tagwaye 5.02 km, Giade Gabani 1.52 km and Gwaram Farin Ruwa – Hardawa 4.75 km roads, among others were marked for maintenance and rehabilitation.