Residents of several communities in Kogi East have received a major infrastructure boost as Senator Isah Jibrin commenced the grading of selected rural roads across the senatorial district, beginning with the Ibobo–Emewe Ogane road in Biraidu District.
The intervention, aimed at improving transportation and economic activities in the area, is expected to enhance connectivity among rural communities, ease the movement of people and goods, and open up access to markets, schools and healthcare facilities.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony on behalf of the senator, Alhaji Akpa Anana said the project reflects Echocho’s commitment to addressing the infrastructural challenges facing communities in Kogi East.
According to him, quality road infrastructure remains critical to economic growth and social development, noting that the senator is determined to connect farmers to markets, workers to employment opportunities, students to educational institutions and patients to healthcare services through improved road networks.
“The senator understands the strategic importance of rural roads in driving development and improving the living conditions of our people,” he said.
Project contractor, Alhaji Mikail Isa, disclosed that the Federal Government initially approved the grading of a two-kilometre stretch beginning from Ajakeya Junction. However, he revealed that Senator Echocho had directed that the project be extended to Emewe Ogane to ensure that more communities benefit from the intervention.
He assured residents that the work would be executed promptly and in line with approved standards.
Traditional rulers in the area welcomed the project, describing it as a significant step toward restoring economic activities and improving the quality of life of residents.
Representing His Royal Highness, Chief Jonah Idris Okai, the Onu Gbologwo Emewe, HRH Mathew Daikwo, commended the senator for prioritising infrastructure development and responding to the long-standing needs of the people.
He noted that the road network would not only ease transportation challenges but also stimulate commerce and strengthen social interactions among communities across the district.
Residents of Abocho, Ajakeya and Emewe Ogane also expressed appreciation for the intervention, saying the poor state of the road had for years increased transportation costs and hindered economic activities.
Many of them described the project as a timely response to the infrastructural needs of the area and expressed optimism that it would bring relief to farmers, traders and commuters who rely heavily on the route.
The road grading initiative forms part of broader efforts by Senator Echocho to improve infrastructure and facilitate development across Kogi East, where access roads remain a major concern for many rural communities.
The project is expected to boost local commerce, improve access to essential services and contribute to the socio-economic development of the senatorial district.