President Bola Tinubu has praised the Nigerian Army for providing security along the Illela-Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway project, describing their role as crucial to the success of this key infrastructure initiative under his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The commendation was delivered by Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru during his operational visit to troops stationed at the Forward Operations Base Laager in Kebbi State on Friday.
During the visit, which was confirmed in a statement by the minister’s media aide Mati Ali, Badaru conveyed President Tinubu’s appreciation for the troops’ dedication.
“The president also praised your dedication to safeguarding personnel and equipment at the construction site,” Badaru told the soldiers.
He emphasized the project’s economic significance, stating, “This project is a game-changer for travellers, particularly those commuting between Sokoto and Lagos. It will stimulate the economy by creating numerous jobs and economic opportunities.”
The Defence Minister further explained the importance of the military’s role, saying, “You understand the importance of this road and the critical nature of your mission. That is why the president has entrusted me with the responsibility of visiting you to personally express our appreciation for the exceptional work you are doing.”
The 1,068-kilometer dual carriageway project, which was unveiled in October 2024, represents one of Nigeria’s most ambitious infrastructure developments. Starting from Illela town in Sokoto State’s Illela Local Government Area, the highway will pass through seven states including Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, Oyo, Ogun, and Lagos before terminating in Badagry. The federal government awarded the construction contract to Hitech Construction Company Limited, with the first phase scheduled for completion in 2027.
Government officials have revealed that both the Sokoto-Badagry highway and the Lagos-Calabar coastal road projects will cost approximately N13 trillion. The administration has emphasized its commitment to quality, adopting concrete pavement technology and implementing strict quality control measures to ensure the highway’s durability and longevity.
The Nigerian Army’s presence along the construction corridor has been instrumental in preventing security breaches and ensuring the safety of workers and equipment. This protection has allowed construction to proceed without significant disruptions, a fact that has drawn particular praise from the presidency. The highway is expected to transform interstate commerce when completed, potentially reducing travel time between Sokoto and Lagos by 60 per cent while creating an estimated 50,000 direct and indirect jobs.
The Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway, along with the Lagos-Calabar coastal road, represents a centerpiece of President Tinubu’s infrastructure development agenda, aimed at boosting economic integration and facilitating easier movement of goods and people across the country.
