Jibrin Hussaini Kundum, Bauchi

The Sokoto to Badagary Road has been identified as a major game changer in the socioeconomic development of the Northern Nigeria.

The National Chairman of Arewa Advocates for Good Governance, Jamilu Mato stated this in a press statement issued to journalists on Wednesday.

Mato was refuting what he tagged ‘accusations against the Minister of Works David Umahi by a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Jadda Garko, who through a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday asserted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will lose 60 percent of votes from the North if he continues to retain David Umahi as Minister of Works.

The statement explained that “We noticed that some unpatriotic elements are making baseless claims that Engr. David Nweze Umahi is neglecting the Northern Region and is not thinking strategically about the nation’s infrastructure development.

“We stand here to categorically refute these claims and to reaffirm the Minister’s commitment to the development of every region in Nigeria, including the North.”

Mato insisted that David Umahi has consistently demonstrated commitment to the progress and unity of all regions in Nigeria.

He noted that “Since his appointment as Minister of Works, Umahi has initiated and overseen infrastructure projects that cut across all geopolitical zones, including the Northern Region. His strategic focus on concrete road construction is aimed at providing sustainable and durable infrastructure for all Nigerians, irrespective of tribe, religion, or region”.

He emphasized that contrary to the false narrative being spread, the Northern Region has been a major beneficiary of Umahi’s tenure at the Ministry of Works.

“Key road projects, bridges, and other critical infrastructure have been either completed or initiated across various Northern states including the historic Sokoto-Badagary 1000 kilometer road.

His leadership is ensuring 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 chairman believed that David Umahi’s wide recognition for innovative approach to infrastructure development relating to pioneering the use of concrete roads across Nigeria are a testament to his forward-thinking mindset.

They foresight that concrete roads provide long-term durability, reduce maintenance costs, and ensure safer transportation, which will benefit all regions, including the North, for decades to come.

The group expressed concern saying the accusation is an insult to the remarkable work Umahi is doing to the nation.