President Buhari Commissions Nigeria/Cameroon Joint Border Post And Bridge, Reiterates Need For Neigbourliness President Muhammadu Buhari Thursday in Mfum, Cross River State, called for more neighborliness and mutual understanding between African states in order to enhance trade, security and promote development of the continent. The President, represented by the Minister of State, Foreign Affairs, Amb. Zubairu Dada, at the commissioning ceremony of the Nigeria/Cameroon Joint Border Post and Bridge, said the 1.5km project would enhance the interconnectivity of “our people and communities, improve living standards, reduce barriers to inter-regional trade and strengthen border security.’’ “It is with great sense of satisfaction that we are witnessing the official Joint Commissioning of the Mfum/Ekok 1.5km Bridge and Joint Border Post (JBP). Let me begin with commending the Leaderships of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), and the Government of the Republic of Cameroon that worked closely to realize this project, as well as the African Development Bank (ADB) that provided funding for the execution and completion of this 1.5km Joint Border Project,’’ he said.  President Buhari noted that the projects will deepen the inextricably linked cultural and traditional fraternal bonds that already exist between Nigerians and Cameroonians living around the border communities. “Let me also underscore that in order to maximize the benefits of these projects, the Nigerian and Cameroonian officials that would be saddled with the responsibility of manning the Joint Border Post, in particular, must act in the most professional manner, as well as in line with the global best practices, effective from today,’’ he added. President Buhari affirmed that the completion of the project had made both Nigerians and Cameroonians living around the area jubilant.   “Such excitement symbolizes the resolve of our People and Governments to remain connected in spite of our seemingly artificial boundaries. “The completion and commissioning of this project could not have come at a more auspicious time than when Nigeria has signed and ratified the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Agreement. Therefore, we expect that the commissioning of this Joint Border Bridge and Post will not only strengthen the existing cordial relations between Nigeria and Cameroon, but also enhance cooperation between the ECOWAS and the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS). “Under the AfCFTA, this project has the potential to enhance the volume of economic activities in our regions, as well as facilitate the free movement of persons, goods and services within the countries, along the corridor. It would also serve as a vital link between the West and the Central African regions.  “The Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria also expects that this Joint Border Post and Bridge will enhance security patrol and facilitate effective cooperation in this part of our border with the Republic of Cameroon. While expressing our confidence that this project would accomplish the set targets, it is also our hope that it would complement the current efforts of the Governments of Nigeria and Cameroon to combat the scourge of terrorism and violent extremism in our region. “This is important because the activities of violent extremists have continued to present major challenges to the development of our countries and regions,’’ he added. The President said the menace of insecurity had continued to threaten economies, impede the maximization of the strategic potentials of our countries as well as cause political upheavals and menace in our sub-region. “Hence, it is our hope that the commissioning of this project will accelerate the efforts of our gallant security personnel who are already doing very well in securing our territories.   “We also pray that this project would enhance the interconnectivity of our people and communities, improve living standards, reduce barriers to inter-regional trade and strengthen border security. We are certain that these projects will deepen the inextricably linked cultural and traditional fraternal bonds that already exist between Nigerians and Cameroonians living around the border communities,’’ the President stated.   He noted that the project, which was part of the on-going Nigeria/Cameroon Multinational Highway and Transport Facilitation Programme (NCMH&TFP), will remain a visible testament to the continuing cooperation and good neighbourliness between both countries, as well as Regional Economic Communities. “This bridge, and Joint Border Post, are proofs that when African countries work with African Institutions, outstanding and people-centred cross-regional developmental projects can be achieved in record time,’’ he said. The President thanked all the Institutions and Agencies that made the project possible. “I recall in this regard, that the Government of the Republic of Cameroon cooperated with us in granting joint waiver to the Expatriates that were employed by the construction company that handled the project, despite the global COVID-19 lockdown. The cooperation and support of H.E. President Paul Biya, as well as the Government and people of Cameroon, ensured that this project was completed on schedule. “Let me also extend the gratitude of the Government and people of Nigeria to the African Development Bank for the role it played in financing these projects. Under the leadership of Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, the Bank has become, by all standards, a reliable beacon of support in all matters relating to Africa’s development. Indeed, we are very proud of the performance of the current Management of our continental Bank which has confirmed that we truly have “African solutions to African problems”. “Let me also commend the leadership and staff of the ECOWAS and ECCAS for their untiring efforts in ensuring the timely completion of this project. It is necessary to underscore that visible projects such as these, as well as other critical and life changing infrastructure are the type of projects that the citizens of our sub-region have been yearning to see. It is the hope that under the leadership of Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, ECOWAS will continue to deliver on the expectations of our citizens.   “Finally, let me conclude by extending our deepest appreciation to the contractors, CGCOC, that have shown uncommon commitment to the execution and delivery of this high quality project, within a reasonable period. To all of you who have contributed in one way or the other to this epoch–making and memorable occasion, I convey my warm appreciation,’’ President Buhari said. In his remarks, the Minster of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, said the value of the new bridge transcended connection between Nigeria and Cameroon, boosting the larger effort of connecting Africa. He said efforts will be sustained to improve networking among Africans, which ECOWAS and the African Union had been pursuing over many years, with earlier plans dating back to 1969.  Fashola said consistency in building roads and bridges will improve relations among Africa countries, where people can drive from Lagos to Mombasa.  The Cameroonian Minister of Public Works, Emmanuel Nganou Djoumessi, who represented President Paul Biya, appreciated the contributions of various stakeholders to the project, assuring that the Nigeria/Cameroon relations will explore more possibilities for partnership. ...

More Jobs Coming as FEC Approves Award of Urgent Repairs, General Maintenance Contracts on Some Roads Nationwide ....Roads include Gorgaram – Guri; Buni Gari – Gulani in Yobe State; Water Corporation Drive and Trinity Avenue in Lagos ....The objective is to improve conditions of federal roads, restoring nation’s road network in line with National Development Plan 2021 - 2025, says Fashola ....Substantial number of jobs to be generated through the projects In pursuance of the Federal Government’s commitment to developing the nation’s road network in the six geopolitical zones, the Federal Executive Council (FEC), has approved contracts for urgent repairs and special general maintenance of some roads nationwide worth N48.519 billion.   While presenting the Memo, as one of three considered from his Ministry at Wednesday’s Federal Executive Council meeting presided over by Vice-President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo SAN, the Hon. Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola SAN explained that the aging state of federal roads nationwide has warranted the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency to procure the projects in its Amended 2022 Appropriation. He added that the projects would enhance Federal Government’s objective of restoring the nation’s road network as part of the implementation of the National Development Plan (NDP) 2021 -2025. The roads for which the Minister got approval for the award of contracts for urgent repairs, and special general maintenance included the construction of Gorgaram - Guri Road in Yobe state, in the sum of N40.907 billion, with a completion period of 36 months and the rehabilitation of the 90-kilometre Buni Gari - Gulani road also in Yobe state in the sum of N4.785 billion with a completion period of 36 months.  Approval was also received for the reconstruction of Water Corporation Drive and Trinity Avenue in Victoria Island, Lagos State. This was approved in the sum of N2.826 billion with a completion period of 36 months.’ The approvals, which were sequel to the Memoranda submitted to the Council by the Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola SAN, showed that the construction of Gorgaram - Guri Road in Yobe state will be executed by Messrs Mothercat Limited, the Buni Gari - Gulani road will be rehabilitated by Messrs Hikam Engineering and Consultancy Limited, while the reconstruction of Water Corporation Drive and Trinity Avenue will be carried out by Messrs Wizchino Engineering Limited.   In terms of creating job opportunities, it was noted that due diligence and post qualification checks were carried out which showed that the companies have the capabilities to execute the contracts with a substantial number of jobs generated for Nigerians. Advancing reasons for seeking the approvals, the Minister explained that “these roads have been reported to be in very bad condition and requiring urgent intervention to enable road users’ access to economic activities along the routes.” ...

FG Seeks The Support Of El- Rufai On Right Of Way The Federal government has called for the support and cooperation of the Kaduna State Government to ensure that the few obstructions  on the road towards the Rigachukwu and Raba road which is part of  section 1 of the Abuja - Kaduna - Kano road construction and rehabilitation project are removed so that the contractor can have access to work. The Honourable Minister of State for Works and Housing, Honourable Umar Ibrahim El - Yakub made the call when he paid a courtesy visit on the Governor at the Government House,  Kaduna on Friday  October, 21,2022. The Minister informed the Governor who was represented by his deputy, Dr.Hadiza Sabo Balarabe that he was on an inspection tour of the Abuja -Kaduna - Zaria - Kano road to assess the progress of work  by the contractor. He told the Governor that the work which was suspended at section one of the road due to security threat will soon resume fully as the security situation on the road had improved significantly. He praised Governor El - Rufai for the infrastructural development he championed in the state. The Minister said,"Under the leadership of Mallam Nasir El - Rufai's  very dynamic and purposeful government,  Kaduna has seen alot of transformation." While emphasising the significance of infrastructure  El- Yakub said, " It is an essential part of economic development because economic activities thrive when you have developed  infrastructure." Responding on behalf of the Governor, the Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe expressed gratitude to the Honourable Minister for coming to inspect the road.  Dr. Balarabe expressed optimism that the construction and rehabilitation of the road will ease movement of people and goods, ease the security situation in the areas and boost the economic activities of the people.  Later while briefing newsmen,  the Minister disclosed that  section 2 of the road which begins from Zaria to Funtua is about 56 kilometres out of which 7 kilometres  is a dual carriageway. He added that the contractor has promised that by next month the 7 kilometers carriageway would be completed. He expressed happiness over the quality of work. He stated that the project is being funded under the NNPC Tax Credit Scheme which is one of the innovative ways introduced by the President Muhammadu Buhari led administration for financing infrastructure. El - Yakub also inspected the Rigachuku and Dumbi bridges. He informed journalists that currently only one of the dual carriageway of the Rigachuku brigde is functioning, he however said  that  the contractor has been mobilised to  work on it. He added that the Dumbi bridge is still functioning fully but the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing is just being proactive to ensure that any weakness in the bridge is rectified. Engineer Alex Onaji who is the Engineer's Representative on  section 2 of the project said work was progressing on the project and only 13 percent was remaining to get it completed, adding that the contractor was committed to the project.   ...