By Joy Onu
The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to the timely and high-quality execution of the Sokoto–Gusau–Funtau–Zaria Road Project, warning contractors that failure to meet agreed timelines and specifications could attract sanctions.
According to the press release issued by the SA Media to the Honourable Minister of State, Rt. Hon. Bello Muhammad Goronyo, Esq., the Minister led an on-the-spot assessment of the 750-kilometre highway on Sunday, 25th January 2026. The route spans Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kaduna States, connecting multiple economic and agrarian hubs. The inspection covered sections from Dange to Shuni in Sokoto, and through Talata Mafara, Maru, and Bungudu in Zamfara State.
Speaking on the exercise, Rt. Hon. Goronyo explained that it was conducted under the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to ensure strict compliance with approved standards, value for money, and timely project delivery. “I am personally leading senior Ministry officials to verify the quality of work and ensure contractors are fulfilling their responsibilities,” he said. The Minister added that he was representing the Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, GCON, to assess compliance with project specifications and execution standards.
While some segments of the highway have shown progress, Goronyo noted concerns over the overall pace. The Sokoto–Tureta–Mafara section, with roughly 27 per cent completion, was described as encouraging. Conversely, the Mafara–Maru–Gusau stretch, at about 16 per cent, fell short of expectations. The Minister indicated that the Federal Government is prepared to restructure underperforming sections, potentially reassigning remaining work to more capable contractors if tangible improvement is not observed.
Goronyo acknowledged that past delays were partly linked to compensation for affected properties, crediting Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu for facilitating payments and ensuring community cooperation. He also highlighted the support of the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, in providing security measures that safeguard both workers and equipment along the corridor.
The Minister reiterated the administration’s broader infrastructure vision, emphasising the adoption of concrete pavement technology to deliver cost-effective, durable, and long-lasting roads. He also referenced the ongoing 1,068-kilometre Sokoto–Badagry Super Highway Project as a landmark initiative that revives former President Shehu Shagari’s long-standing vision while promoting connectivity, trade, and national integration. Goronyo praised President Tinubu and Minister Umahi for prioritising road infrastructure and noted that the Renewed Hope Agenda is focused on tangible results, sustainability, and timely delivery.
The inspection team included top officials of the Ministry of Works, such as Mr. U.B. Ekong, Director of Highways Construction and Rehabilitation, and Mr. C.A. Ogbuagu, Director of Highways Planning and Development. During the tour, the team engaged host communities, assuring residents that remaining compensation and project-related concerns would be addressed to facilitate uninterrupted execution of the highway project.
