Ambassador Nma Ahmed, the State Director General of RAMP, disclosed this information during an interactive session with newsmen in his office in Minna, the state capital, last weekend. He noted that this aggressive rural development initiative is unprecedented since the creation of Niger State in 1976.
The RAMP boss emphasised that Governor Bago’s commitment to massive rural road construction aims to make residents of remote areas feel the presence of governance and avoid the neglect experienced under previous administrations.
Ambassador Ahmed expressed optimism about the arrival of Governor Bago, stating that it signifies a “Messiah in human form” has come to rescue the people of Niger from the maladministration that has hindered development in the state.
According to the Director General, virtually all local government areas are now benefiting from various road construction projects, which will be implemented in phases. He mentioned that approximately 176.43 kilometres of backlog maintenance is currently in progress.
Ahmed highlighted that the 176.43 kilometres of roads are distributed across over 25 communities, noting that some local government areas have two projects each, including Kontagora, Borgu, Kacha, Lavun, Bosso, and Wushishi.
He further explained that rural roads with higher networks and significant agricultural productivity impacts are prioritised for upgrading. A total of 99.24 kilometres of rural roads have been identified for rehabilitation.
“Communities that will benefit from such road upgrades include Gulu-Evunti-Lambata, Maikunkele-Jangaru-Gida Mangoro, and Maitumbi-Pina-Kuta roads in Lapai, Bosso, and Shiroro local government areas, respectively,” Ahmed declared.
The Director General reiterated RAMP’s commitment to exploring additional rural roads in the state to enhance the transportation and marketing of agricultural produce. He also expressed appreciation to the staff of the organisation for their cooperation and support.
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