By Idris Salisu, Gusau

Gusau — The Federal Government’s dualization of the Zaria–Sokoto road is set to stimulate economic activities across the North-West region, the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, has said.

Umahi, represented by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (North-West), Abdullahi Tanko Yakasai, made the remark during a media inspection tour of the ongoing Funtua–Gusau–Sokoto road project in Gusau, Zamfara State.

Yakasai noted that the tour aimed to ensure contractors remain on site and deliver quality work. He emphasized that improved infrastructure connecting Kaduna, Katsina, Zamfara, and Sokoto states would enhance regional connectivity and economic opportunities.

The minister also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing adequate funding, which has strengthened contractor commitment to the project.

Project managers from SETRACO Construction Company, handling the Funtua–Gusau segment, and contractors managing the Gusau–Colony section in Talata Mafara, pledged to maintain high-quality work and adhere to project timelines.

Engr. Kasim Yusuf, Controller of the Federal Ministry of Works in Zamfara State, who guided the visiting team, said the dualization project, awarded in 2023, is scheduled for completion within 48 months. He reported that the 87-kilometre Funtua–Gusau stretch is 53 percent complete, while the 93-kilometre Gusau–Colony segment has reached 14 percent completion.

“I commend President Tinubu for prioritizing road construction in the North-West and nationwide. His rapid infrastructural development is yielding tangible results,” Engr. Yusuf said.