The Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo has flagged off construction of the 20-kilometre Obajana-Uro-Aku rural road linking parts of Lokoja and Adavi local government areas of the state.
Penpushing reports that Special Adviser on Media to the Governor, Ismaila Isah in a statement said the project was part of interventions by the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP) supported by the World Bank Group.
The statement added that the project was also supported by other stakeholders in the agricultural development value chain and it is the first phase of the over 65-kilometer network of rural roads in the state intended to create access to farms, farming communities and markets as well as ensure food security in the state.
Penpushing further reports that Ododo who performed the flag-off at a ceremony in Apata near Obajana emphasized the pivotal role of rural roads in the development agenda of his administration, adding that the rural roads will not only enhance transportation but also serve as catalyst for rural economic growth and food security in the state.
The Governor pointed out that the roads will equally provide access and connectivity to farmers and traders as part of his administration’s broader strategy to enhance rural development and bring governance closer to people in local communities.
Penpushing also reports that he appealed to benefiting communities to take ownership of the project, and equally gave a stern warning to contractors handling the project not to divert project funds, urging them to demonstrate high level of integrity and professionalism in project delivery.
The Commissioner for Rural and Energy Development, Engineer Abdulmutalib Mohammed on his part said the project is meant to benefit farmers especially by reducing cost of transportation and accessibility for both farmers and traders in the state.
Penpushing reports that the National Coordinator of the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP) Engineer Aminu Bodinga represented by Mrs Joy Amadi commended the Governor for his unwavering commitment to rural development which she noted would enhance connectivity and access to markets, social services and opportunities that were previously out of reach by rural dwellers.
The Kogi State Coordinator of the project, Sheidu Obansa said the network of rural roads will expose the communities to opportunities and promote agricultural development in the state, while the Olu of Oworo, Muhammed Adoga Baiyerohi in similar vein, commended the Governor on the road project, noting that the project will enhance agricultural development and will also reduce vehicular traffic along Obajana road.
Penpushing further reports that other traditional rulers at the ceremony and spoke on the development commended the Governor for the initiative to help rural dwellers who are mostly farmers and traders in the state.
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