Senator representing Kogi West Senatorial District, Sunday Steve Karimi, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the rehabilitation of two major federal highways linking Kogi State with Kwara and Ekiti states.
The projects, approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) as part of a nationwide road infrastructure programme valued at N3.9 trillion, include the Obajana–Kabba–Isanlu–Egbe–Omu Aran–Ilorin road and the Kabba–Ifaki–Ado Ekiti road.
According to details released after the FEC meeting, N104 billion was approved for the rehabilitation of Sections One and Two of the Kogi-Kwara corridor, while N24.7 billion was earmarked for the upgrade of the Kogi-Ekiti route.
Speaking during a meeting with leaders and stakeholders from the seven local government areas of Kogi West, Karimi described the approvals as a demonstration of the President’s commitment to equitable infrastructure development across the country.
He noted that the Obajana–Kabba–Isanlu–Egbe–Omu Aran–Ilorin road has suffered years of neglect despite its strategic importance in connecting parts of the South-West and North-Central regions.
“Many people see it simply as a road linking Kogi and Kwara states, but its significance goes beyond that. It provides an alternative route for travellers from states such as Osun and Oyo heading to Abuja and other parts of northern Nigeria,” he said.
The lawmaker also highlighted the importance of the Kabba–Ifaki–Ado Ekiti road, describing it as a critical transport corridor that connects Ekiti, Kwara and Osun states with Kogi and the wider northern region.
Karimi said commuters have endured years of hardship on both routes due to poor road conditions, leading to prolonged travel times, vehicle damage and security concerns.
He expressed optimism that the rehabilitation projects would improve mobility, boost economic activities and enhance security by reducing opportunities for criminal elements that often exploit bad road conditions.
The senator further commended the Minister of Works, David Umahi, for his role in advancing the projects, noting that sustained engagement with the ministry contributed to securing federal attention for the roads.
Karimi urged Nigerians to continue supporting the administration’s Renewed Hope agenda, arguing that ongoing investments in infrastructure and economic reforms are laying the foundation for long-term national development.
He added that improved road networks would not only ease transportation challenges but also strengthen regional integration and economic growth across the country.