The Kaduna State Government, under the leadership of Governor Uba Sani, has reaffirmed its commitment to the timely and high-quality completion of the Kafanchan township dualisation road project, a key infrastructure initiative inherited from the previous administration of Governor Nasir El-Rufai. This commitment was underscored by Dr. Abdullahi Ahmed, the Managing Director of the Kaduna State Road Agency (KADRA), during a recent inspection tour of ongoing projects in Southern Kaduna. Ahmed, leading a delegation of political appointees from the region, emphasized the administration’s dedication to improving the living conditions of the citizenry through strategic infrastructure development. The Kafanchan dualisation project, specifically, has been highlighted as a priority, reflecting the government’s recognition of its importance to the local economy and its wider connectivity impact.
The project, initially estimated at approximately ₦13 billion, has seen a significant cost reduction to ₦9.3 billion following meticulous negotiations. This cost-saving measure underscores the government’s prudent fiscal management and its commitment to maximizing the impact of public funds. Reinforcing this commitment, Governor Sani’s administration has already disbursed approximately 50% of the revised project cost to the contractor, amounting to over ₦5 billion. This substantial upfront payment aims to expedite the project’s completion, with a strict six-week deadline set for the contractor to demonstrate significant progress. The government anticipates that this accelerated timeline will enable the project to deliver tangible benefits to the community before the Christmas season.
The Kafanchan dualisation project holds significant strategic importance, extending beyond its local impact within Kafanchan town. The road serves as a crucial link to neighboring states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, facilitating inter-state commerce and movement of people. Upon completion, the upgraded road infrastructure is expected to significantly stimulate economic activities, improve transportation efficiency, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents in the Southern Kaduna region. This infrastructural improvement will not only ease transportation woes but also contribute to the socio-economic development of the area by opening up new opportunities for trade and commerce.
Beyond the Kafanchan dualisation project, the Kaduna State Government is simultaneously undertaking other crucial infrastructure projects in the Southern Kaduna region. Among these are the 22.8 km asphalt road connecting Madauchi and Madakiya to the Kafanchan township roundabout, designed to modern international standards, and another 22.5 km asphalt road from Kibam to Godogodo, incorporating two major bridges. These projects demonstrate the government’s comprehensive approach to infrastructure development, focusing on creating a robust and interconnected road network to facilitate economic growth and regional integration. These roadways signify more than just transportation routes; they represent pathways to progress and development, connecting communities and fostering economic opportunities.
The government’s investment in Southern Kaduna extends beyond road infrastructure, encompassing a range of critical sectors. Ongoing projects include the renovation of hospitals to enhance healthcare delivery and the construction of skill acquisition centers to empower the local population with valuable vocational skills. These initiatives underscore the administration’s commitment to holistic development, addressing both the immediate infrastructure needs and the long-term human capital development required for sustainable growth. By investing in healthcare and skills development, the government is laying the groundwork for a healthier, more skilled, and ultimately more prosperous community.
Dr. Ahmed acknowledged the significant debt burden inherited by the current administration, emphasizing that the ongoing projects are being prioritized within the context of available resources. This demonstrates the government’s commitment to fiscal responsibility while simultaneously pursuing essential development initiatives. The strategic allocation of resources, despite financial constraints, underscores the government’s resolve to deliver on its promises to the people of Southern Kaduna and to foster sustainable development within the region. The commitment to completing these inherited projects, despite the financial challenges, highlights the importance placed on continuity in governance and the delivery of tangible benefits to the citizens.
