The Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Aliyu Abdullahi has projected that the dualisation of the Bida ring road in Niger State will significantly boost agricultural activities and enhance the country’s gross domestic product (GDP).
The minister made these remarks during the official groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the 44-kilometre dual carriageway Bida ring road in Niger State. He stressed that agriculture plays a pivotal role in the Nigerian economy and the expansion of road infrastructure is crucial for the socio-economic development of the nation.
In his statement, Abdullahi stated that, “I’m convinced that the construction of this 44-kilometre dual carriageway will open up more activities.” He noted that many farmers had faced frustration due to the poor state of the road, hindering their ability to transport their produce effectively.
He further praised the state governor, Hon. Mohammed Umar Bago for his unwavering commitment to the project, describing him as “Mr. People’s Oriented Project”. Abdullahi emphasised that all projects undertaken in the state would ultimately benefit the people of the state and Nigerians as a whole.
In his address, Bago expressed his determination to transform the narrative of Niger State by improving security, providing world-class healthcare facilities, and promoting mechanised agriculture. He announced plans to cultivate approximately 250 hectares of land in the next year, with one million hectares in the pipeline.
Chairman of Bida local government area, Hon. Isa Mohammed echoed the sentiment that the construction of the 44-kilometre dual carriageway would stimulate multinational activities in the town, generating employment opportunities and fostering the growth of agro-allied products in the state.
The groundbreaking ceremony, as highlighted in a statement from the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, was a momentous occasion attended by dignitaries, including the deputy governor of Niger State, members of the Niger State House of Assembly, the secretary to the Niger State government, commissioners, special advisers, local government chairmen, representatives from Arab Contractors DAQ Nig. Ltd., among others. It also included the official commencement of the groundbreaking ceremony by the state governor.
