BY HADIZA IBRAHIM NGULDE
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has launched a series of major infrastructural projects aimed at improving healthcare delivery, economic development, and infrastructure in the state.
The projects, flagged off on Tuesday, April 22, in Maiduguri, include the construction of a new orthopedic hospital, a general hospital, a modern market, an international hotel, and a western bypass.
Speaking at the project unveiling ceremony, Gov. Zulum assured residents that these key initiatives, particularly those in the health sector, would be completed before the end of his tenure.
'We want to construct a befitting additional market, an orthopedic hospital, another general hospital, an international hotel, and a western bypass. These are some of the major projects I want to execute before my tenure expires,' he said.
The governor emphasized the significance of improving access to healthcare and economic infrastructure as critical to Borno's ongoing recovery and development efforts.
He noted that the projects would not only enhance the state's infrastructure but also create jobs and stimulate economic growth.
In addition to the healthcare projects, Gov. Zulum also flagged off the construction of a 7.1km express dual carriageway from the Borno Express Terminal to Molai, featuring a 6-span bridge and the state's fourth flyover located along the busy Post Office area of Maiduguri.
The road project, expected to ease traffic congestion and improve mobility, is part of the state's urban renewal drive.
The N16 billion contract for the road project has already been 50% funded, with the remaining N8 billion set aside to ensure timely completion.
The project, scheduled for completion within 8 to 10 months, is projected to create hundreds of jobs for skilled and unskilled workers.
While speaking,commissioner for works and housing, Engr. Mustapha Gubio, assured that the ministry would closely monitor the project, ensuring strict compliance with quality and design specifications.
He explained that the 6-span bridge would connect both sides of the Ngada-Bul River to improve connectivity along the new expressway.
Meanwhile, the governor addressed the ongoing water crisis in Maiduguri, attributing the problem to damage from last year's flood.
'The government is very aware of the situation, and we are doing everything possible to address it,' he said, urging residents to be patient as repair works on the water supply network are underway.