Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State has initiated the construction of a 113-kilometre ring road around Maiduguri, linking the eastern, western, and southern parts of the city.
The project, The Trumpet learnt is part of the governor’s urban renewal drive, aimed at alleviating city congestion, addressing housing shortages, creating jobs, and boosting economic growth.
The construction will be executed in phases, with the initial phase covering 16.5km from Maiduguri-Kano Road to Maid-Monguno Road via Maid-Gubio Road.
Governor Zulum noted that the city is experiencing significant pressure due to the influx of internally displaced persons (IDPs), resulting in increased demand for resources like shelter and housing.
“Maiduguri is facing serious challenges because of the influx of IDPs, placing enormous strain on the resources available to meet the needs of the population. This ring road project is a deliberate step to decongest the city and provide better infrastructure,” Zulum stated during the launch.
He emphasized the importance of quality construction, urging the Ministry of Works and Housing to ensure that the road meets high standards and remains durable.
“I want you to be meticulous and ensure this road, once completed, stands the test of time. Do not compromise on quality, even if it increases the cost. This road should last for at least 30 years,” Zulum said.
The Commissioner for Works and Housing, Engr. Mustapha Gubio, reassured the Governor that the project would be completed on schedule, with strict adherence to engineering specifications.
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Also, the Executive Secretary of the Borno State Road Maintenance Agency,
Engr. Sadu Auno, explained that the road is a dual carriageway with a 7.3-meter width, designed according to federal government standards.
Additionally, the Executive Secretary of the Borno State Geographic Information Service (BOGIS), Engr. Adam Bababe, announced that compensation totalling over N1.6 billion had been paid to 732 individuals whose farmlands were affected by the project.
He also revealed that the development will include residential, commercial, industrial, recreational, and institutional zones across a landmass of approximately 2,000 hectares.
