By Aminu Harsanu Guyaba
The Sokoto to Badagary road has been highlighted as a key catalyst for the socio-economic development of northern Nigeria.
This was disclosed by the National Chairman of the Arewa Advocates for Good Governance, Jamilu Mato, in a press release issued to journalists on Wednesday.
Mato was responding to accusations against the Minister of Works, David Umahi, made by Jadda Garko, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC). During a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday, Garko claimed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu risks losing 60 percent of northern votes if Umahi remains in office as the Minister of Works.
In the statement, Mato refuted these claims, stating, “We have noticed that some unpatriotic elements are making baseless accusations that Engr. David Nweze Umahi is neglecting the Northern Region and is not considering the nation’s infrastructure development strategically. We categorically refute these claims and reaffirm the Minister’s commitment to the development of every region in Nigeria, including the North.”
Mato emphasized that Umahi has shown a consistent dedication to the unity and progress of all regions in the country. He noted, “Since his appointment as Minister of Works, Umahi has initiated and supervised infrastructure projects across all geopolitical zones, including the Northern Region. His strategic focus on concrete road construction aims to provide sustainable and durable infrastructure for all Nigerians, regardless of tribe, religion, or region.”
He further stressed that contrary to the false narrative being circulated, the Northern Region has been a significant beneficiary of Umahi’s leadership at the Ministry of Works. “Key road projects, bridges, and other critical infrastructure have either been completed or initiated in various northern states, including the historic 1000km Sokoto-Badagary road.”
Mato added that Umahi’s leadership ensures that road networks connecting key economic zones in the North are being prioritized for the region’s development and integration into the national economy.
The group’s chairman praised Umahi’s widely recognized innovative approach to infrastructure development, particularly his pioneering use of concrete roads across Nigeria. According to Mato, concrete roads offer long-term durability, reduced maintenance costs, and safer transportation, benefiting all regions, including the North, for years to come.
The group expressed concern that the accusations leveled against Umahi are an insult to the remarkable work he is doing for the nation.