The Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris, on Tuesday, inaugurated the construction of a 6.4-kilometre township dual carriageway in Argungu, costing over N7.23 billion.
Speaking during the flag-off ceremony in Argungu, the governor said the project covers road construction, drainage systems, and the installation of solar street lights.
“This is part of our commitment to fulfilling campaign promises, I am proud to announce that we have delivered 50 to 60 per cent of the promises we made to the people. We want our local government headquarters to be at par with others across the country,” Idris said.
The governor assured that the contractor had already been mobilised to the site, with 40 per cent of the contract sum paid upfront.
He emphasised that funds for the project had been set aside to avoid any risk of abandonment.
“We don’t award contracts without securing the necessary funds. We are committed to completing all projects during this administration.
“This administration isn’t just about building infrastructure,” the governor noted. “We are not owing workers’ salaries or gratuities, and we are paying WAEC and NECO fees for our graduating students, as well as providing scholarships for students both within and outside Nigeria,” he said.
The governor, who announced plans to begin the renovation of the Argungu General Hospital next week, also urged farmers in the state to embrace dry-season farming to recover from losses caused by recent floods.
The Commissioner for Works, Abdullahi Faruq-Muslim highlighted that the project was awarded to Amirco Universal Concept at the cost of N7.23 billion, with a completion timeline of 12 months.
He commended the governor for selecting a reputable company for the project.
The commissioner also listed other projects by the administration, including the dualisation of Birnin Kebbi-Ambursa Road, the completion of a multi-billion-naira secretariat complex, and the construction of an ultra-modern motor park in the state capital.
Emir of Argungu, Sama’ila Muhammadu-Mera, praised the governor for prioritising Argungu in the state’s development agenda and supporting traditional institutions.
In recognition of the governor’s efforts, the Emir presented a silver sword, symbolising his conferment with the traditional title of “Jigon Kabi”.
The Managing Director of Amirco Universal Concept, Dr. Hassan Mahdi, assured the public that the project would be completed within six months, ahead of schedule.
Peoplesmind