Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State alongside Gov. Bala Mohammed during the laying of the foundation for the construction of 24.5 kilometer Itas - Gadau road in Bauchi
ARMSTRONG ALLAHMAGANI, Bauchi-
The Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Thursday laid the foundation for the construction of 24.5 kilometer Itas – Gadau road valued at N8.5 billion which was awarded by the Bauchi State Government.
Speaking while performing the ground breaking ceremony for the construction of the road at Gadau town, he commended Governor Bala Mohammed for constructing the road and other developmental achievements he has recorded in the state within his two years of being in office.
Governor Makinde who challenged leaders in various positions to use every opportunity they have to provide dividends of democracy to their followers and initiate projects that would better their lives, expressed optimism that when leaders create the right environment, Nigerians join in developing the country rather than for them to prefer seeking for greener pastures abroad.
“I’ve also seen the specifications of this road and am happy that it is not the type of road that will fall apart in just a few months”.
“As leaders, we must never forget that what we do with the opportunity we are given will eventually speak for us, so we must remain focused on doing the right things to the best of our abilities, we must work to accelerate development in our areas. Road construction is one of those development projects that must never be overlooked”.
“I am convinced that we can succeed in moving Nigeria forward if we continue to drive our people’s economic empowerment by providing the infrastructure they need. Nigerians are generally resilient people who simply need the right environment to flourish”.
“We can see how well Nigerians do when they leave the shores of this country. So, if we do our part as leaders to provide the right environment for them, they’ll stay back and join in building Nigeria,” he said.
The Oyo State Governor described his Bauchi state counterpart as a bridge builder who has shown in words and deeds that he is for peace and unity of this country.
In his speech, Governor Mohammed, said that all arrangements have been completed to ensure that the road is delivered within 24 dry months.
He said: “This road, covers 24.5 kilometers and we have procured it using the best procurement means to make sure we get value for money and it will cost us N8.5 billion”.
“It will be completed within 24 dry months and it will cover some of the most difficult terrains in Bauchi with about three bridges, 900 millimeter diameter, five culverts in one of the richest topographies in northern Nigeria.”
Governor Mohammed appreciated Makinde for the honour done to him by coming to the state to flag-off the project, saying by that act “we will carry your name on our heads, you cannot come and commission a project like this and we will allow it not to be done.”
He added: “Because of your big sacrifice of being with us and identifying with us is instructive and it has given us hope that Nigeria has leaders and you are one of those leaders that one day, some of us will show you support to lease Nigeria, to lead any portion of Nigeria because we believe you can deliver, Seyi Makinde”.
“On behalf of all the governors of the PDP, I am very proud to say that you are one of those that is making us proud in a citadle of opposition of the Southwest and you are not doing badly.”