Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris has urgently called upon the Federal Ministry of Works to prioritize repairs for a recently collapsed bridge that serves as a crucial link between Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara states, extending to southern Nigeria. His appeal was made during an inspection of the damaged infrastructure, where he highlighted the profound implications of the bridge’s collapse on local traders and farmers who depend on this route for their livelihoods. The governor underscored the importance of swift action from federal authorities to mitigate the negative economic impact stemming from the disruption of this critical transportation link.
The bridge, located in the Kebbe Local Government Area of Sokoto State, collapsed on Sunday night and is a vital artery connecting the northern and southern regions of the country. Governor Idris expressed his grave apprehension regarding the consequences of the bridge’s failure on commercial activities across the affected states. He noted that traders and farmers, who rely on the bridge for transporting goods and products, would face significant challenges, further exacerbating economic hardships for the communities involved.
Idris pointed out that the collapse has forced motorists and travelers to seek longer detours through Dakingari in the Suru Local Government Area of Kebbi State, which negatively impacts travel time and increases transportation costs. The detour scenario has not only inconvenienced local residents but has also raised concerns regarding the efficiency of trade and the overall economic stability in the affected regions. The governor’s call for urgent interventions is aimed at restoring normalcy to the transportation network and ensuring the livelihood of those who depend on it.
Moreover, Governor Idris emphasized the need for comprehensive regular maintenance of federal roads and bridges to prevent similar incidents in the future. His advocacy for proactive measures indicates an understanding of the broader implications of infrastructural failures—you can’t simply react to crises as they arise; rather, addressing infrastructure problems in advance can forestall severe economic repercussions down the line. By highlighting the importance of maintenance, he draws attention to the need for investment in infrastructure to support sustainable economic growth.
The governor’s inspection team included high-ranking officials from the Kebbi State government, such as the Secretary to the Kebbi State Government, Yakubu Bala-Tafida, and various commissioners. Their presence reinforced the gravity of the situation and the collective responsibility of the government to address the infrastructural deficiencies that jeopardize the people’s livelihoods. This delegation signifies the unified stance of the state government in demanding decisive action from federal authorities, showcasing a collaborative effort to safeguard regional interests.
In conclusion, Governor Nasir Idris’s urgent appeal to the Federal Ministry of Works highlights the significant economic implications of the bridge collapse in Kebbi State and its neighboring regions. His proactive stance not only seeks immediate repairs but also underscores a long-term vision for infrastructure maintenance to prevent future disruptions. As the state grapples with the fallout from this incident, the call for federal support remains critical in ensuring that local economies can withstand disruptions and continue to flourish, ultimately contributing to the broader economic stability of Nigeria.
