Governor Ahmad Aliyu has donated 10 Hilux vans to support the Sokoto-Badagry highway project.

Deputy works minister Bello Goronyo received the vehicles on behalf of the federal government in Sokoto on Wednesday.

Speaking at the event, Mr Aliyu said the donation fulfilled the state’s promise in recognition of the importance of roads linking Nigerian states.

He commended President Bola Tinubu for the initiative, observing that the project would boost socio-economic activities nationwide.

Earlier, Mr Goronyo said the 1,068km road remained a legacy project aimed at fast-tracking development across the country.

The state minister noted that the vans would aid security surveillance, assuring that other operational needs would also be supported.

He commended Sokoto’s foresight and promised their judicious use, saying, “The vehicles will be properly maintained.”

The federal controller of works, Kassimu Maigwandu, revealed that the Sokoto axis covered 120km of concrete road.

“It includes six lanes, bridges, and solar lighting. A railway line is also part of the design. The project features CCTV cameras and health posts. Security stations will ensure prompt emergency response. Work is ongoing in six locations simultaneously, and adequate security arrangements are in place,” he said.

Mr Maigwandu said the project “goes beyond infrastructure”, adding that it would  rejuvenate agriculture, tourism, education and health.

The 1,068km road was inaugurated on October 24, 2024, in an event held at Illela Local Government Area under the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’.

The defence minister, Christopher Musa, had received equipment from the state government.

The equipment donated included 62 armoured vehicles and 300 motorcycles, valued at N27 billion.

The donation is intended to support security agencies in addressing banditry and other security challenges in the state.

(NAN)