The Federal Government on Thursday, June 4, 2026 officially flagged off the construction of the Gombe–Biu Super Highway, a major segment of the Akwanga–Jos–Bauchi–Gombe–Biu–Maiduguri Dualization Project, with Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, expressing optimism that Nigeria’s security challenges will be overcome under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Speaking during the flag-off ceremony in Gombe State, Umahi described the project as another milestone in the Federal Government’s infrastructure renewal programme and a demonstration of President Tinubu’s commitment to national development and unity.
The minister commended Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya for what he described as the remarkable transformation of Gombe State, saying the level of development witnessed during his visit exceeded expectations.
“We are very proud of what the governor has achieved in this state. We never knew that Gombe was this developed. He has shown himself to be a true Nigerian,” Umahi said.
He disclosed that the scope of the Gombe–Biu section had been expanded following requests from the state government and assured residents that visible construction activities would commence within 30 days.
According to him, the highway forms part of the Federal Government’s approximately 700-kilometre Fourth Legacy Project stretching from Akwanga through Jos, Bauchi, Gombe and Biu to Maiduguri.
Umahi noted that the contract was awarded to HITECH Construction Company after a competitive procurement process involving six companies.
Addressing concerns over insecurity across parts of the country, the minister urged Nigerians not to politicise security issues, expressing confidence that the Tinubu administration would successfully address the challenge.
“Security should not be politicised or weaponised. This phase will pass, and with collective efforts and God’s grace, the country will overcome its security challenges,” he said.
The minister further stated that President Tinubu had demonstrated leadership in stabilising key sectors of the economy and would equally succeed in restoring lasting peace.
“The boat is already on the high sea. We are experiencing turbulence, but the President has stabilised the boat in many directions. The macroeconomy is stabilised, the naira is stable, and the gains of the reforms are gradually reaching the people,” Umahi added.
He cited major infrastructure projects such as the Sokoto–Badagry Super Highway, the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway and the Akwanga–Maiduguri Corridor as examples of long-conceived projects now being implemented under the current administration.
In his remarks, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya described the highway as one of the most significant infrastructure investments in Gombe State’s history.
He expressed appreciation to President Tinubu and the Ministry of Works for facilitating the project, noting that it would complement the state’s livestock and agricultural industrial zone initiative and stimulate economic growth.
“The joy and excitement on the faces of our people speak for themselves. This project has come at a very important time in our history,” the governor said.
Yahaya assured the Federal Government and contractors of the state’s full support, including adequate security for personnel, equipment and construction activities throughout the project duration.
Managing Director of HITECH Construction Company, Engr. Dany Abboud, pledged to deliver the project according to international standards and within the stipulated timeframe.
He also promised to create employment opportunities for residents of host communities, particularly young people.
“We will mobilise all necessary resources to ensure successful delivery of the project while creating jobs and empowering youths in the affected communities,” Abboud said.
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Senator Allwell Onyesoh, urged Nigerians to support the Federal Government’s development agenda, while Chairman of the House Committee on Works, Hon. Akin Alabi, commended the collaboration between the Executive and Legislature in delivering critical infrastructure projects nationwide.
The traditional ruler of Yamaltu Emirate, the Mai Tangle, Dr. Danladi Sanusi Maiyamba III, also expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and the Ministry of Works, assuring contractors of a peaceful environment for the successful execution of the project.
Several lawmakers, traditional rulers, government officials, representatives of HITECH Construction Company and stakeholders from across the country attended the ceremony.
The Gombe–Biu Super Highway is expected to enhance connectivity across the North-East, facilitate trade and investment, improve transportation efficiency and contribute significantly to regional economic development.
