By Peter Jatau, Abuja
The Senate has applauded the Federal Government’s recent approval of N4.2 trillion for the construction of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road and other major highways and
bridges across Nigeria, describing the initiative as a vital step toward transforming the country’s road infrastructure. The motion was brought to the floor by Senator Goje Mohammed Danjuma (Gombe Central), who underscored the importance of comprehensive road development in boosting socio-economic growth and enhancing national security.
Background:
At the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting held on Monday, February 3, 2025, the government announced its commitment to upgrading key federal highways and bridges nationwide. According to Senator Danjuma, the projects align with President Ahmad Bola Tinubu’s policy agenda, dubbed Renewed Hope, aimed at tackling Nigeria’s long-standing road infrastructure challenges. The planned construction covers major routes, including the Lagos–Calabar Highway, Delta State Access Road, Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, Auchi–Edo Section, Third Mainland Bridge, and several other strategic corridors identified in THIS DAY and DAILY TRUST newspapers.
North-East Concerns:
While lauding the government’s “bold initiative,” the Senate voiced concern that the North-East region, long plagued by inadequate road networks and insecurity, is only allocated two projects under this massive funding plan:
- Yola–Fufore–Gurin Road in Adamawa State (N11.81 Billion)
- Lamido Road in Taraba State (N7.68 Billion)
Senator Danjuma highlighted additional critical roads in the North-East that remain in dire need of reconstruction or rehabilitation—such as the Bauchi–Gombe Road, Potiskum–Gombe Road, Yola–Mubi Road, and Biu–Damboa–Maiduguri Road, among others. He also lamented that the region is excluded from the “Super Highway” project, stressing that full connectivity is essential to revitalize economic activities and foster stability in an area often targeted by insurgent groups.
Senate Resolutions:
In response to Senator Danjuma’s motion, the Senate adopted three key resolutions:
- Commendation of the Federal Government
Senators unanimously praised the administration for embarking on what they called “ambitious and laudable projects” that promise to bolster socio-economic growth and enhance national security. - Rehabilitation of Deplorable Roads
Lawmakers urged the Federal Government to extend the planned rehabilitation efforts to all regions facing severe road infrastructure deficits, emphasizing that a nationwide approach is vital for balanced development. - Inclusion of the North-East
The Senate further called on the Federal Government to integrate the North-East into the Renewed Hope Super Highway Road Project. According to the motion, connecting the zone to major road networks will stimulate commerce, reduce insecurity, and ensure the region fully participates in Nigeria’s economic mainstream.
Looking Ahead:
The Senate’s resolutions reflect growing calls for equitable infrastructure development, particularly in regions like the North-East that have endured years of insecurity and economic marginalization. Observers note that implementing these projects successfully will require robust funding mechanisms, transparent oversight, and efficient coordination among federal ministries and state governments.
With the N4.2 trillion approval, stakeholders across the country—including civil society, local communities, and international partners—are keenly watching to see if the Tinubu administration can deliver on its promise of safer, more accessible roads for all Nigerians.
