The North East Development Commission (NEDC) has officially commenced the construction of a 2.5-kilometre road and two bridges in Potiskum Local Government Area of Yobe State. This significant infrastructure project was flagged off on Friday, marking a pivotal step in the region's development agenda.
Project Details and Community Impact
NEDC's Managing Director, Muhammad Alkali, announced the initiative during a ceremony where the project sites were handed over to the Eighteen Engineering Company (EEC) in Potiskum. Represented by the Yobe State Coordinator, Prof. Ali Ibrahim Abbas, Alkali highlighted that the road and bridges will serve as vital links for the Kara, Masaka, and Mazaga communities. Additionally, one of the bridges is specifically designed to resolve long-standing access challenges for the Tandari community to Potiskum Township.
Post-Insurgency Recovery and Economic Benefits
Abbas emphasised that this project aligns with the commission's mandate for post-insurgency recovery and resettlement. Upon completion, it is expected to significantly improve the safe transportation of goods and enhance access to essential services such as healthcare centres, schools, and markets. The initiative is projected to not only uplift residents' livelihoods but also drive socio-economic growth and development in Potiskum and surrounding areas.
Beyond facilitating commuting and goods haulage, Abbas noted that the construction will create job opportunities for local engineers, artisans, and casual workers. He stated, "This will create and build community wealth beyond the completion of the road project," underscoring the long-term economic benefits for the region.
Contractor Commitment and Timelines
During the event, Gao Kun, representing the Eighteen Engineering Company, pledged to deliver the two projects within a 10-month timeframe. He assured compliance with all contract terms, including specifications and completion deadlines, ensuring quality and timely execution.
This project follows previous efforts by the NEDC, as last year, Alkali and Abubakar Garba Iliya, the Executive Director of Administration and Finance, inspected infrastructural needs in Yobe State and committed to providing critical road infrastructure to bolster the local economy.
