The Federal Government has once again been asked to think of a tolling policy that will enable the repair and maintenance of Nigerian roads.
Capt Idris Wada the Kogi State Governor made the call at the flag off of dualisation of Lokoja-Benin road beginning from Obajana Junction- Okene section 1 phase 1 by the Minister of Works, Mike Onolememen.
Capt Wada who was represented by his Deputy,Yomi Awoniyi, commended the massive road construction effort of the federal Government adding that the dualisation of the Obajana to Benin road will serve as a link between North and Southern part of the country.
The road when completed the Governor noted will not only enhance investment drive and easy vehicular and passenger movement, it underscores the strategic location of the state as over 23 states criss cross the state on a daily basis.
The State Governor commended the Federal Government efforts in the on-going construction of Lokoja- Abuja road, used the occasion to solicit the assistance of the Federal Government in the construction and rehabilitation of Obajana-Egbe- Ilorin road, Banda -Obajana bye pass, Banda – Nasarawa Boundary road to ease movement to the eastern part of the country and gridlock on the Abuja – Lokoja road.
The Governor also solicited the opening up of interchange roads along the newly constructed Lokoja – Abuja highway to forestall accidents in the state capital.
The Governor assured the Federal Government of support in the realisation of its transformation agenda as well as security to the construction company to enable it deliver on its objectives.
In his keynote address,Mike Onolememem, Minister of Works said the policy of the Federal Government under President Goodluck Jonathan is to ensure that Nigerians drive on dual carriage roads in an unbroken chain.
The Minister disclosed that the dualisation of the Obajana- Benin road is in yearning of Nigerians for the extension of the dualisation to the Benin the cradle of Edo civilisation and to allow for free flow of vehicular traffic from south-west, South- South and South- East parts of the country.
The Minister challenged the Contractor and the supervisory Ministry to work within their professional competence to actualize the project within the 24 months completion period.
In his speech, Ru Changyu, MD CGC Nig.Ltd., said the company will endeavour to using its team of professionals and modern technology deliver quality work to help raise the living standard of the ordinary people.
