The Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has described the official flag-off of the construction of the Akwanga–Jos–Bauchi–Gombe Super Highway as a landmark achievement in Nigeria’s infrastructure renewal programme, with far-reaching implications for economic growth, regional integration, agriculture, security, tourism, and interstate commerce.
The groundbreaking ceremony, performed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, in Akwanga, Nasarawa State, brought together governors, federal government officials, and political leaders, who unanimously described the project as one of the most strategic infrastructure investments under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, Governor Caleb Mutfwang expressed profound appreciation to President Tinubu for approving the highway as the fourth of the President’s Legacy Projects, describing the initiative as a demonstration of visionary leadership that places national development above partisan politics.
The Governor recalled that the approval for the project was first announced during a meeting of the National Council of State and noted that the commencement of construction further reinforces President Tinubu’s reputation as a leader who honours his commitments.
“We want to thank Mr. President for approving this project. I remember when he first announced at the National Council of State meeting that this road would be included among the Legacy Projects. It was indeed heartwarming. This initiative will leave a lasting legacy in the hearts and minds of our people.”
Governor Mutfwang said history would remember President Tinubu not merely for initiating the project but for investing in infrastructure capable of transforming generations.
“This road will undoubtedly attract the blessings and prayers of our people as it progresses. It is beyond politics; it is about a leader who is committed to building enduring legacies. When this road is completed, Mr. President’s contribution to national development will never be forgotten.” He said.
According to the Governor, the commencement of the project provides tangible evidence that the Renewed Hope Agenda is translating into impactful development initiatives that will improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians.
“Mr. President walks the talk. When he makes a promise, he keeps it, and today we are witnessing that promise becoming a reality. I am confident that he will continue to deliver on his commitments. There may be challenges along the way, but I see light at the end of the tunnel.”
Governor Mutfwang also commended the Federal Government’s ongoing economic reforms, urging Nigerians to assess the current administration within the context of the difficult economic realities it inherited.
He observed that President Tinubu assumed office at a time when Nigeria faced severe fiscal constraints, mounting debt obligations, and declining foreign reserves, but maintained that emerging economic indicators point towards gradual recovery and renewed investor confidence.
The Governor linked the highway directly to Nigeria’s agricultural transformation, stressing that efficient transportation infrastructure remains indispensable to food security, rural prosperity, and economic competitiveness.
“One of the most critical enablers of agricultural production is access to markets. There could not have been a better time for a project of this magnitude to commence.”
He noted that the Akwanga–Jos–Bauchi–Gombe Super Highway would significantly strengthen Plateau State’s economy. As one of Nigeria’s leading producers of Plateau potatoes, vegetables, maize, tomatoes, fruits, and livestock, Plateau has long contended