The Senator representing Kogi West Senatorial District, Sunday Karimi, has welcomed the Federal Government’s approval of contracts for the rehabilitation of two major highways linking Kogi State with neighbouring Kwara and Ekiti states.
The roads – the Obajana–Kabba–Isanlu–Egbe–Omu Aran–Ilorin road and the Kabba–Ifaki–Ado Ekiti road – are among 27 major road projects approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) on Monday as part of a nationwide road infrastructure programme valued at ₦3.9 trillion.
According to the FEC, ₦104 billion has been allocated for Sections One and Two of the Kogi–Kwara road project, while ₦24.7 billion has been approved for the rehabilitation of the Kogi–Ekiti road.
Speaking during a meeting with leaders and stakeholders from the seven local government areas in his constituency, Karimi praised President Bola Tinubu for approving the projects, describing the decision as a demonstration of commitment to addressing infrastructure deficits across the country.
The senator, who has consistently advocated for federal intervention on both roads, said the approval reflected the administration’s willingness to invest in regions that had long been neglected.
He noted that the Obajana–Kabba–Isanlu–Egbe–Omu Aran–Ilorin road serves as a strategic transport corridor, providing an alternative route for motorists travelling between parts of the South West, including Osun and Oyo states, and the Federal Capital Territory as well as northern Nigeria.
Karimi also described the Kabba–Ifaki–Ado Ekiti road as a vital link connecting Kogi with Ekiti, Osun and Kwara states, adding that the route had suffered years of inadequate maintenance.
The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Services said the rehabilitation of both roads would help reduce travel time, ease the movement of people and goods, and minimise damage to vehicles caused by deteriorating road conditions.
He expressed optimism that the projects would also improve security by making the highways more accessible and reducing opportunities for criminal activities often associated with poorly maintained roads.
Karimi thanked his constituents for their continued support and acknowledged the efforts of the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, whom he credited for his responsiveness to repeated appeals regarding the projects.
The senator also urged Nigerians to continue supporting President Tinubu’s administration, arguing that its economic reforms and infrastructure investments were laying the foundation for long-term national development. He expressed confidence that sustained investment in road infrastructure would improve connectivity, stimulate economic growth and enhance the overall travel experience for Nigerians.
