NEDC, Yobe Partner to Reconstruct 77 km Damaturu–Gujba–Magza Highway

NEDC, Yobe Partner to Reconstruct 77 km Damaturu–Gujba–Magza Highway

The North East Development Commission (NEDC), in collaboration with the Yobe State Government, has commenced the reconstruction of the 77-kilometer Damaturu–Gujba–Magza road, a strategic route expected to enhance security, ease transportation, and stimulate economic recovery across Yobe and neighbouring states.

The groundbreaking ceremony, held on the outskirts of Damaturu, was performed by Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni.

He described the road—often referred to as the Sambisa Forest corridor—as a critical link connecting Yobe to southern Borno, Adamawa, Taraba, and parts of the Southeast.

According to Governor Buni, the 52-year-old road has deteriorated significantly over time due to increasing traffic and years of wear, necessitating urgent intervention. He recalled that the route had previously undergone reconstruction during the administration of former Governor Ibrahim Geidam, but growing usage had since overwhelmed its capacity.

“We cannot overstate the importance of this road,” stated Governor Buni. “It is not only vital for economic activities but also crucial for security operations in the region.”

He explained that sustained engagements with NEDC leadership led to the mobilization of resources for the project. “Our earlier discussions this year with the Managing Director of NEDC have yielded positive results, and today we are seeing the outcome,” he added.

The governor emphasized that the completed highway would significantly improve the movement of troops involved in counter-terrorism efforts across the Northeast while also enabling farmers to access their farmlands and transport produce to markets more efficiently. He noted that improved infrastructure remains central to post-insurgency recovery and long-term development.

Buni expressed appreciation to the Federal Government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for its continued support for the state and the region. He urged host communities to cooperate with contractors to ensure smooth and timely completion of the project.

In his remarks, NEDC Managing Director Mohammed Alkali commended the governor’s persistence in pushing for the road’s reconstruction, describing it as a major step toward safer travel and regional integration.

Alkali assured residents that the commission is fully committed to delivering the project without delay. He disclosed that the reconstruction would be executed in two phases, with Phase I already underway. The first phase covers 25 kilometers, and contractors have since been mobilized to the site.

The Damaturu–Gujba–Magza road is widely regarded as a lifeline for communities across Yobe and Borno states, and stakeholders believe its rehabilitation will strengthen security coordination, boost commerce, and accelerate recovery efforts in Nigeria’s Northeast.