BY MUSA IDRIS UMAR, MAY 04, 2025 | 09:20 AM
Residents of Fori and Galtimari in Maiduguri are appealing to the Borno State government to repair the critical road linking Fori and Bama Road.
The call comes as the rainy season approaches, threatening to further disrupt the lives of commuters and traders who rely on the route.
Recall, the road was damaged by the last year's September flood in the state.
After the flood damage, local youths constructed a temporary bridge to facilitate a commuter movement. However, with the approaching rainy season, residents are worried that the temporary bridge will be submerged and damaged when the river recharges in July or August further exacerbating their struggles.
Despite a collaborative effort announced last year between the Borno State Government and the World Bank to rebuild critical infrastructure damaged by devastating flood, the vital Fori Bridge remains unrepaired.
The bridge's reconstruction was identified as paramount due to its significance for the region's economy and the daily lives of residents.
Residents are expressing deep concern over the delay, citing daily struggles and potential crises as the rains near.
'We urgently appeal to the state government for assistance before the rains begin,' said Jibrin Abba, a 59-year-old trader and father of four.
'The elderly, especially, are suffering. The unconstructed bridge is a serious worry. Crossing with our families is a daily struggle. Our children cry during the crossing, and mothers face immense difficulty,' he added.
Others echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the bridge's importance for trade, transportation, and access to essential services.
Emmanuel Ibrahim, a 46-year-old father of four, emphasized the impending crisis: 'Just yesterday, we were discussing the dire situation the unrepaired bridge will create as the rainy season nears. Without a way to cross, accessing our homes, businesses, hospitals, and schools will become impossible.'
Fatima Abdullahi, a 52-year-old mother of seven, lamented the physical hardship and broken promises: 'We endure significant hardship crossing, especially for older individuals like myself who struggle with the uneven path. We were hopeful the bridge would be repaired before rainy season as we saw work started and after a day or 2 the works has stopped and the engineers were no where to be found.'
If the bridge is not repaired, residents will be forced to take a longer route via Al-Amin Dagash, which will be a huge challenge, especially for students and traders.
The Borno State Government and the World Bank are urged to expedite the reconstruction of the Fori Bridge and deliver on their commitment to building a more resilient Borno State.