Katsina State has commissioned a major road project linking Shargalle, Dutsi, and Ingawa communities, executed at the cost of N13.9 billion, in what officials describe as a significant boost to rural infrastructure and economic development in the state.
The road, which cuts across key agricultural and trading corridors, is expected to ease transportation, improve market access, and strengthen socio-economic activities across the benefiting communities.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony held in Ingawa town, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda described the project as part of his administration’s broader commitment to infrastructure renewal, inclusive growth, and rural development.
He said the newly reconstructed road would significantly reduce travel time, improve road safety, and open up fresh economic opportunities for residents of Shargalle, Dutsi, Ingawa, and surrounding areas.
According to him, the project also carries historical significance, as the original road was constructed decades ago during the administration of the late Governor Balarabe Musa and later reconstructed under the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua when he served as governor of Katsina State.
“This road is more than just a transportation route,” Governor Radda said. “It is an economic lifeline that connects our people, supports agriculture and commerce, and directly improves the quality of life in these communities. What we have done is to modernise it to meet present and future needs.”
He urged residents of the benefiting areas to take ownership of the project by protecting it and ensuring its long-term sustainability.
The governor also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to delivering more development projects across the state, stressing that governance must continue to translate into visible benefits for the people.
“We will continue to work diligently to fulfil our mandate and ensure that the dividends of democracy reach every corner of Katsina State,” he added.
In his remarks, Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, who attended the event as special guest of honour, commended Governor Radda for what he described as a landmark achievement in infrastructure development.
He noted that the reconstruction and modernisation of the road after several decades reflects strong leadership and a clear vision for development.
Buni said the project would significantly improve connectivity, boost trade, support agricultural productivity, and enhance socio-economic activities across the region.
He also acknowledged the historical development of the road, noting its earlier construction under the late Balarabe Musa and subsequent reconstruction during the Yar’Adua administration, adding that the latest upgrade aligns with current development needs.
“The present reconstruction has not only restored this critical infrastructure but also positioned it to serve future generations more effectively,” he said.
The commissioning ceremony also witnessed a political moment as several individuals from opposition parties formally defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), a development Buni described as a sign of growing unity and confidence in the ruling party.
Earlier, the Katsina State Commissioner for Works, Housing and Transport, Engr. Sani Magaji Ingawa, disclosed that the 39-kilometre road project was delivered at a cost of N13.9 billion.
He explained that the project was designed to improve connectivity between key communities, enhance agricultural and commercial activities, reduce travel time, and improve overall safety for road users.
The event was attended by top government officials, including the Speaker of the Katsina State House of Assembly, members of the State Executive Council, federal and state lawmakers, traditional rulers led by the Emir of Daura, and other dignitaries from across the state.
