The Bauchi state branch of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), has applauded the state governor, Bala Mohammed over his commitment to infrastructure development, particularly in the realm of road construction across the state.
The Branch chairman, Engr. Muhammad Ibrahim, at a press conference held at the NUJ press centre, Bauchi, encouraged the state government to sustain the momentum and assured of the continued support of the branch in achieving greater milestones in the future.
He commended Governor Bala for prioritizing the long-term benefits of the infrastructure investments and appreciated the government’s emphasis on sustainability and durability in road construction.
“It is important for the public to be aware that infrastructure development comes with a price, and investments in quality roads have long-term benefits for the community. We, as the Nigerian Society of Engineers, support the government’s commitment to infrastructure development and attest to the integrity of the cost estimation for the Ningi-Gudduba dual carriegeway road project.
“We want to address the recent insinuations circulating in some quarters regarding the Ningi-Gudduba 11Km dual carriegeway road project recently awarded by the Bauchi State Government at the cost of 10.3 Billion Naira. It is important to provide clarity and counter any misconceptions that may have arisen regarding the perceived over-inflation of the project cost.
“The insinuation that the project was awarded at the sum of 1 Billion Naira per kilometer is highly erroneous and misleading, because the road is not a single lane road but a dual carriage one. It is essential to understand that infrastructure projects, especially road construction, involve various factors that contribute to the overall cost. The cost estimation for such projects considers not only the length of the road but also the terrain, soil conditions, drainage requirements, environmental considerations, and the need for quality materials.
“Therefore, any attempt to oversimplify the cost based solely on the length of the road may not capture the full picture. Notably, every Nigerian is aware of the rising cost of everything including construction materials.”