SOKOTO:SENATOR ABIRU INAUGURATES 4.6KM TAKATUKU–DANDAMU RURAL ROAD AS GOV. ALIYU ORDERS UPGRADE TO ASPHALT STANDARD
From Muhammad Gazali Garba
Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru has inaugurated the newly completed 4.6-kilometre Takatuku–Dandamu Rural Road in Sokoto State, executed under the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP) in collaboration with the State Government,Federal Government and the World Bank, as part of on-going efforts to strengthen rural connectivity and boost economic development.
The project, is aimed at improving rural road networks, easing transportation challenges, and enhancing agricultural value chains by linking farming communities to markets and essential services.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the Governor of Sokoto State, Ahmed Aliyu, said the completion of the road reflects his administration’s sustained commitment to expanding infrastructure across rural communities.
He noted that the Takatuku–Dandamu corridor would significantly boost economic activities, improve mobility, and enhance access to social services for residents.
Governor Aliyu also disclosed that, given the strategic importance of the road and the communities it connects, he has directed the State Department of Rural Roads to prepare and submit detailed cost estimates for upgrading the route to asphalt overlay standard.
According to him, the proposed upgrade would improve the durability of the road and further enhance transportation efficiency and economic activities along the corridor.
Governor Aliyu expressed deep appreciation to the people of Sokoto State for their continued support and cooperation with his administration, assuring that government would continue to deliver projects across all parts of the state for the benefit of the people. He reaffirmed that his administration remains committed to executing impactful projects that directly improve the lives of citizens and promote inclusive development.
Aliyu also expressed gratitude to Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko for his continuous advice, guidance, and constructive contributions, noting that his suggestions and encouragement have greatly supported efforts aimed at enhancing the welfare and development of the people of Sokoto State.
Earlier in his remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Rural Roads, Malami Muhammad Galadanci, commended the commitment of the state government in delivering the road project, describing it as a clear demonstration of its resolve to improve rural infrastructure and open up communities for socio-economic development.
Galadanci said the successful completion of the Takatuku–Dandamu Rural Road underscored the administration’s determination to provide quality infrastructure for rural dwellers, noting that the project would positively impact farming activities, trade, and access to essential services.
He added that the current administration had recorded remarkable achievements in rural road development and had set a new standard for infrastructure delivery across the state.
In his remarks, Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru, who represents Lagos East Senatorial District in the Senate, commended Governor Ahmed Aliyu for prioritising infrastructure delivery and effectively leveraging development partnerships to reach rural communities. He described the Takatuku–Dandamu Rural Road as a transformative project that would improve livelihoods, reduce transportation costs, and stimulate agricultural productivity.
Senator Abiru further commended the governor for the numerous achievements recorded across Sokoto State under his leadership, particularly in road infrastructure, social services, and community development initiatives.
He noted that the administration’s visible impact across key sectors reflects a strong commitment to improving the welfare of the people and driving inclusive growth.
He also commended Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko for his steadfast commitment and valuable counsel to Governor Ahmed Aliyu on key developmental issues, describing him as a man of integrity, honour, and deep passion for the progress and welfare of the people. He noted that Senator Wamakko’s experience and fatherly guidance have continued to positively shape governance and development in the state.
The senator also expressed appreciation for the fatherly role being played by the Sultanate Council in ensuring peace, unity, and mutual respect among Nigerians. He noted that the guidance and influence of the Council continue to play a vital role in promoting harmony and strengthening peaceful coexistence within and beyond Sokoto State.Senator Abiru further emphasised the importance of sustainability and maintenance of rural infrastructure, noting that the long-term value of projects like the Takatuku–Dandamu Rural Road depends on proper upkeep by both government agencies and benefiting communities. He stressed that without a strong maintenance culture, the economic and social gains of such investments could be quickly eroded.
He also called for the continuous expansion of rural road networks across Sokoto State and other parts of the country, urging sustained collaboration between the Federal Government, development partners such as the World Bank, and state governments.
According to him, improved rural access roads remain critical to empowering farmers, supporting small and medium enterprises, and creating opportunities for young people in agriculture and related value chains.
He urged residents of Takatuku and Dandamu communities to take ownership of the project by protecting it against damage, stressing that community participation remains key to sustaining public infrastructure.
During the inauguration ceremony, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi, led the formal reception of thousands of supporters who defected from various opposition political parties to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The minister described the development as a reflection of growing public confidence in the leadership and developmental achievements of the APC-led administrations at both the state and federal levels.
Residents of the benefiting communities expressed excitement over the completion of the road, describing it as a long-awaited intervention that would ease movement, improve access to markets, and significantly enhance socio-economic activities in the area.
