Jonathan Commissions 18 Township Roads in Bauchi as Bala Puts Statewide Road Construction at 3,000km
By Umar Usman Duguri
BAUCHI — Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has commissioned 18 newly completed township road projects executed by the Bauchi State Government across the state capital, describing the intervention as a practical demonstration of responsive and development-oriented governance.
The 18 road projects, with a combined length of 49.7 kilometres and an estimated cost of ₦13.7 billion, are expected to improve intra-city connectivity, ease transportation, enhance security and facilitate access to markets, schools, healthcare facilities and other essential services across Bauchi metropolis.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed said the projects formed part of his administration’s broader infrastructure development programme aimed at opening up communities, stimulating economic activities and improving the living conditions of residents.
Governor Mohammed disclosed that his administration had set a target of constructing approximately 5,000 kilometres of roads across Bauchi State, adding that about 3,000 kilometres had so far been completed since he assumed office.
He said the road programme was not simply about expanding physical infrastructure but also about creating an enabling environment for economic growth, improving mobility and connecting communities to opportunities.
«“Road construction is not merely about laying asphalt; it is about opening economic opportunities, improving livelihoods and creating the infrastructure required for sustainable development,” the governor said.»
According to him, the newly completed township roads were executed in line with approved engineering standards and specifications, incorporating durable pavement structures, drainage systems, traffic signs, road markings and speed-control measures.
He added that solar-powered street lighting had also been installed on selected routes as part of measures to improve visibility, security and the overall functionality of the roads.
The governor appealed to residents to take ownership of the infrastructure and protect the roads from activities capable of undermining their durability.
He urged motorists, traders and other road users to avoid indiscriminate parking, trading on road corridors, blockage of drainage channels and other practices that could cause premature deterioration of the projects.
Jonathan Commends Bauchi Infrastructure Drive
Former President Jonathan, who performed the commissioning, commended Governor Bala Mohammed for what he described as practical and impactful governance.
Jonathan said the road projects demonstrated the importance of investing public resources in infrastructure capable of producing tangible benefits for citizens.
He noted that roads remained fundamental to economic development because they connect communities, facilitate the movement of people and goods, expand commercial activities and create opportunities for citizens.
The former president also described Governor Mohammed as a former strong member of his administration, urging the people of Bauchi State to continue supporting programmes that directly improve their welfare.
He called on residents to protect public infrastructure, stressing that the success of government projects ultimately depends on responsible use and collective ownership by the people.
According to Jonathan, the true measure of governance should not be limited to political promises but should be reflected in the extent to which public policies and investments translate into improved living conditions, effective service delivery, transparency and accountability.
Works Commissioner Gives Assurance
The Commissioner for Works and Transport, Prof. Titus Uba Ketkukah, said the commissioning represented another milestone in the state government’s infrastructure development efforts.
He said the ministry remained committed to ensuring that road projects across the state were properly executed, monitored and certified in accordance with approved engineering standards and specifications.
Ketkukah assured residents that the ministry would continue to provide professional oversight to ongoing and future projects to ensure value for money and durability.
The commissioning of the 18 township roads marks another major addition to Bauchi’s urban infrastructure, as the state government intensifies its road construction programme across the metropolis and other parts of the state.
