Governor Mai Mala Buni has flagged off the construction of 40-kilometre Gubja/Mutrai road under the Multi-Sectorial Crisis Recovery Project (MCRP). According to him, the road project is part of State’s recovery drive to rebuild insurgency affected communities in Gulani, Gujba and Fika councils. “This is part of our recovery drive to rebuild the liberated communities in Gubja and Gulani council areas,” he said. While commencing road construction yesterday (Wednesday) at Gujba project site, he disclosed that; “After the completion of roads project, it will promote economic activities to restore people’s means of livelihoods.” On the award and execution of the project, he said: “The contract has been awarded to Levant Construction Limited, after meeting requirements on due process at the cost of N6.4 billion.” He said that the project has two road sections, comprising the flagged off 40-kilometre Gujba/Mutai and 54-kilometre Mutai/Ngalda roads, covering a distance of 94 kilometres. According to him; “The Mutai/Ngalda road project will soon be flagged off and completed within 12 months.” He added that the North East Development Commission (NEDC), is also committed in the construction of Mutai/Ngalda road. “This will give a new facelift to the completion of Gujba/Ngalda road,” he said; noting that there will be smooth evacuation of goods and services, including farm produce and livestock. He noted that the poor state of roads has militated against the exploitation of agricultural and other economic potentials. He therefore maintained that the completion of the road; will increase the volume of trade and commerce at Mutai and Ngalda weekly markets. “It will also stimulate economic growth and revenue generation to boost employment opportunities among youths,” he said. End. “I am also optimistic that the road will attract business and investment opportunities from within and the neighbouring states in view of the rich potentials endowed in this area. This project is a reflection of our collective drive to post-insurgency resettlement, rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts.” The Governor also called on the contractor to execute the road project in accordance with the dictates of the contractual agreements and specifications to ensure quality work and timely completion of the project. “I enjoin the people of Gujba Local Government area and specifically, the communities along the road to support and cooperate with the contractor to ensure successful completion of the project”. “As you are aware, this administration places a high premium on road construction. It is a veritable tool for economic prosperity. We have in the last 18 months, undertook the construction of nine township road projects some of which have been completed while others are on-going”. “We have constructed and commissioned the Buni Yadi and Babbangida township roads, while Jajimaji and Damagum have since been completed and awaiting official commissioning. We are currently constructing more in Nguru, Geidam, Gashua, Damaturu and Potiskum.”
