Nigeria's government has launched work on the Gombe-Biu highway upgrade Thursday. The reconstruction and dualization project carries a price tag of N1.245 trillion.
Works Minister David Umahi and Gombe Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya jointly performed the ceremony. They acted on behalf of President Bola Tinubu at the event.
Umahi noted the project ranks among the federal government's key infrastructure plans. Hi-Tech Construction Company will handle the 125-kilometre road using rigid pavement technology, he explained.
Governor Inuwa had requested an expanded scope for the work. The route now stretches 139 kilometres after inclusion of the Northern Bypass, as per his request.
Inuwa called the highway vital for economic and social development. It connects the Northeast region with other parts of Nigeria and neighbouring countries, he noted.
According to the governor, the road's original construction dates back to 1962. It last received resurfacing treatment in 1976, he added.
Inuwa praised President Tinubu for approving the project. "We will work with the federal government and contractors to ensure timely completion to the required standards," he told reporters.
