Gov. Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State on Saturday inaugurated the newly completed 5.2-kilometre Akwanga-Jos bypass in Akwanga Local Government Area (LGA).
Speaking at the inauguration in Akwanga LGA, the governor described the road as a strategic intervention to decongest Akwanga town and boost economic activities in the area.
He explained that the bypass has reduced travel time for those coming from Keffi or Gudi to Jos, by more than five kilometres, curbed incessant accidents in the town, and extended the lifespan of township roads.
“This is more than a road. It is an economic corridor. For years, our people in Akwanga have suffered traffic gridlock and accidents because all vehicles going towards Jos must pass through the heart of the town.
“Today, we have provided an alternative route that will bring relief to our people and open up new areas for development,” Sule said.
He explained that the bypass was built to the same standard as the federal highway to withstand heavy-duty vehicles and promised to install solar street lights on the road to ensure the safety of motorists at night.
The Governor commended the contractor for delivering the project on schedule and within specifications, and assured that his administration would sustain its drive on both urban and rural roads across the 13 LGAs of the state.
Gov. Sule also inaugurated one-kilometre roads each in Akwanga, Nassarawa-Eggon and Wamba LGAs constructed by the Local Government Chairmen of the respective area councils.
Speaking separately at the respective area councils, Sadiyanu Isa-Andaha, Ilita Aliyu and Ezekiel Jaga, Chairmen of Akwanga, Nassarawa-Eggon and Wamba LGAs appreciated the governor for granting autonomy to LGAs in the state.
“We were able to carry out these projects and many others completed already or ongoing due to the free hand the governor has given us at the area councils,” they added.
The three council chairmen promised that they would execute more projects that would have direct bearing on the lives of the people at the grassroots to complement the efforts of the state and federal governments.
Also speaking, Yakuba Kwanta, Commissioner for Works, Housing and Transport, said the bypass would stimulate new settlements and commercial activities along the corridor.
In his remarks, the Chun Mada, Samson Gamu-Yare, appreciated the governor for the intervention, noting that the bypass would end the nightmare motorists and residents face daily in Akwanga.
“Our town is a gateway to the North-East and Plateau. This bypass will save lives and bring more development closer to our people. We are grateful,” the royal father said.
The event was attended by the Deputy Governor, Dr Emmanuel Akabe, Sen. Danladi Halilu-Envulanza, traditional rulers, Commissioners, leaders of the All Progressives Congress and residents of the areas. (NAN).
