Borno State embarked on a significant infrastructure development project with the groundbreaking ceremony for a new flyover and the dualization of the Tashan Kano highway in Maiduguri. Governor Babagana Zulum presided over the event, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to transforming the state capital into a modern urban center. The combined projects, estimated at a cost of N16 billion, represent a substantial investment in improving transportation infrastructure and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents. The governor’s presence underscored the importance of these projects within the broader context of the state’s development agenda.
The governor’s address at the launch highlighted key aspects of the project, including the financial commitment and expected timelines. He revealed that N8 billion, representing 50% of the total project cost, had already been disbursed to the contractors as an interim payment. This upfront investment demonstrates the government’s commitment to ensuring the project’s timely completion and minimizing potential delays. Zulum explicitly stated that no cost variations would be entertained, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the agreed-upon budget. He urged the contractors to maintain high standards of construction and complete the project within the stipulated timeframe, underscoring the administration’s focus on quality and efficiency. The governor positioned the flyover as the fourth major bridge project undertaken by his administration, reinforcing the narrative of ongoing urban transformation and modernization in Maiduguri.
The dualization of the 7.1km Tashan Kano highway, extending from Borno Express to Molai, forms an integral part of this infrastructure development initiative. This expansion aims to alleviate traffic congestion and enhance connectivity within the city and its outskirts. The inclusion of an additional bridge downstream further supports the objective of improving traffic flow and reducing transit times. Governor Zulum set an ambitious target of eight months for the completion of the highway dualization, reflecting the urgency and priority assigned to this project. The coordinated development of the flyover and highway expansion demonstrates a strategic approach to infrastructure planning, aiming to create a synergistic impact on transportation efficiency.
Commissioner for Works, Mustapha Gubio, provided further details on the project’s specifications and timeline. He reassured the governor of the ministry’s commitment to meeting the deadlines, with the flyover slated for completion within four months and the highway dualization within eight. Gubio emphasized the unique structural design of the new flyover, distinguishing it from previously constructed bridges in Maiduguri. Described as a nine-span bridge with a total length of 600 meters, the flyover incorporates 16 piers and ramps extending 210 meters on each side. The commissioner’s explanation highlighted the technical complexity and scale of the undertaking, showcasing the engineering expertise involved in its design and execution. He outlined the flyover’s strategic location, starting near the Specialist Hospital and terminating near the Ngarannam bridge close to BRTV, indicating its potential to improve access to key facilities and streamline traffic movement in these areas.
The project’s implementation was facilitated by the minimal land acquisition required at the designated site, minimizing potential disruptions and delays related to compensation and resettlement. Gubio’s confirmation that all necessary soil and structural tests had been successfully conducted further reinforces the project’s readiness to proceed. These preparatory measures demonstrate a thorough approach to project planning, ensuring that all necessary technical and logistical aspects have been addressed before commencing construction. The completion of these preliminary assessments provides added confidence in the project’s feasibility and its ability to meet the specified technical requirements.
In conclusion, the launch of the flyover and highway dualization projects mark a significant milestone in Borno State’s ongoing infrastructure development efforts. The substantial financial investment, ambitious timelines, and detailed planning underscore the government’s commitment to transforming Maiduguri into a modern urban center. The projects are expected to enhance transportation efficiency, improve connectivity, and contribute to the overall economic and social development of the state. The emphasis on timely completion, adherence to budget, and maintenance of high construction standards reflects the administration’s focus on effective project management and delivering tangible benefits to the citizens of Borno State. The new infrastructure will not only improve traffic flow but also enhance access to essential services and facilities, contributing to a better quality of life for residents.
