Minister Goronyo Praises Tinubu’s Commitment as Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway Set to Enhance West African Trade
Sokoto, Nigeria — The Minister of State for Works, Muhammad Goronyo, has lauded President Bola Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to infrastructure development, especially highlighted by the ongoing construction of the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway. This mega-project, spanning over 1,000 kilometers across multiple Nigerian states, is poised to revolutionize transportation and trade connectivity within West Africa.
Goronyo expressed his commendation during an inspection tour of the superhighway alongside the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, in Sokoto and Kebbi States on September 12, 2025. He described the ambitious highway as a transformative project that will enhance not only Nigeria’s internal connectivity but also cross-border trade with neighboring countries such as Niger, Mali, and Togo.
“The superhighway, which passes through Sokoto, Kebbi, Niger, and other states before terminating at Badagry in Lagos, is a strategic artery that connects the Sahel region to Nigeria’s coastal trade hub. This project will unlock vast business opportunities along the route and position Nigeria as a vital trade corridor in West Africa,” Minister Goronyo stated.
Background and Project Details
The Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway is a flagship initiative under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, designed to modernize Nigeria’s transport infrastructure and catalyze economic growth. Valued at over ₦1.2 trillion, the six-lane concrete road aims to facilitate smoother movement of goods, reduce travel time considerably, and alleviate congestion on existing north-south routes.
Currently, construction is making steady progress, with sections such as the 50 kilometers in Kebbi State nearing completion, which is expected by May 2026. The project also encompasses compensation for affected communities to ensure fair treatment for those displaced or impacted by the construction.
Economic and Regional Impact
Beyond Nigeria’s borders, the highway is anticipated to boost trade in the West African subregion. It directly links to the pivotal Illela International Market, enhancing access to international trade routes and encouraging investment across the corridor.
Senior Special Adviser to the President on Community Engagement for the Northwest Zone, Abdullahi Tanko Yakasai, emphasized the continental significance of the road: “This road will transform commerce and trade not just for Nigeria but for the entire subregion,” he remarked.
Local communities stand to benefit substantially from improved market access, job creation during and post-construction, and increased industrial activities along the highway.
Expert and Eyewitness Perspectives
Engineer Ishia Vandu, Kebbi State Controller of the Federal Ministry of Works, highlighted that the section between Kilometer 137 and Kilometer 177 is nearly completed, signaling a milestone in the project timeline. “The durability of concrete roads will reduce maintenance costs and ensure longevity, making this project sustainable,” Vandu explained.
Residents along the corridor have expressed optimism about the socio-economic benefits. A trader in Illela market shared, “Once completed, the road will bring more customers and goods, improving our livelihoods.”
Summary and Next Steps
Minister Goronyo’s commendation of President Tinubu’s dedication reaffirms the government’s resolve to complete the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway in phases, ensuring steady progress despite economic challenges. The near-term focus includes completing the Kebbi section by mid-2026 and continuing construction seamlessly through other states.
As the highway advances, the government’s proactive engagement with host communities and transparent compensation schemes aim to maintain local support. Upon completion, this infrastructure is expected to be a game changer for Nigeria and West African trade, enhancing regional integration and economic prosperity.
This strategic corridor underlines the Nigerian government’s commitment to leveraging infrastructure for broader continental development within the African Continental Free Trade Area framework.
