By Liman Ahore Jos.
Plateau State Governor, Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has intensified efforts to secure the long-awaited dualisation of the Akwanga Jos Road, describing the project as critical to economic growth, security and regional integration in the North Central zone.
Governor Mutfwang, who led a delegation of prominent Plateau indigenes on a courtesy and advocacy visit to the Minister of Works,
Engr. David Umahi, said the Akwanga Jos Road remains a strategic federal highway and the main gateway into Plateau State from the southern axis of the country.
He explained that the road plays a pivotal role in commerce, mobility and interconnectivity between Plateau State and neighbouring states, as well as other parts of Nigeria. According to him, its current condition poses serious safety concerns, hampers economic activities and constrains the smooth movement of people and goods.
The governor expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for adopting the Akwanga Jos Road as one of the legacy projects under the Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that its dualisation would significantly enhance road safety, reduce travel time and stimulate trade and socio-economic development across the region.
Mutfwang stressed that prioritising the project would bring far-reaching benefits, including improved security and accelerated development not only for Plateau State but also for adjoining states that depend on the corridor for economic and social activities.
He added that the people of Plateau State would be deeply grateful if the Federal Government accords the project urgent attention in line with its infrastructure renewal drive.
In his response, the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, welcomed the governor and his delegation, commending Mutfwang for what he described as his political alignment with the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Umahi assured the governor of the Federal Government’s commitment to the dualisation of the Akwanga–Jos Road, acknowledging its strategic importance to national development. He pledged that the request would be given due consideration within the context of available resources and ongoing infrastructure priorities.
The minister further directed relevant officials of the ministry to immediately engage the contractor with a view to facilitating the signing of the contract and the commencement of work on the project.
