Kano govt unveils urban renewal project

The Kano State Commissioner of Works, Engr. Marwan Ahmad, has reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to completing major infrastructural projects, revealing that billions of Naira have been spent on ongoing construction efforts across the state.

During a media briefing, Ahmad highlighted key projects, including road construction, bridge development, office renovations, and streetlight installations. He emphasized the government’s determination to improve public infrastructure for residents.

Addressing progress on the Dan Agundi flyover bridge, he acknowledged delays due to the importation of essential construction materials from China. However, with the materials now in Kano, the next phase of work has commenced.

Most of the pier views on the bridge are complete, and the next step is launching the beams, followed by deck casting, which will mark the bridge’s completion.

At the current pace, construction will be accelerated with plans to introduce night shifts to make up for lost time. By the end of this year, the bridge should be ready for public use.

He also provided updates on the Tal’udu construction project, confirming that previous challenges had been resolved and work would soon commence, with completion expected before the end of the year.

Ahmad disclosed that the state government has launched an ambitious Urban Renewal Project, which includes rehabilitating six major roads. These projects have already begun, with contractors actively working on Murtala Muhammad Way, Club Road, and Muhammadu Buhari Way. Asphalt overlay has started, and drainage works are also in progress.

Other roads near the Government House have seen significant progress, with milling and drainage excavation nearing completion. These projects have a strict completion timeline of three months. The first batch of six roads is expected to be delivered on schedule, with an additional seven roads identified for rehabilitation soon.

Beyond urban renewal, several relief roads across Kano are near completion, with many set to open within two to three months.

Ahmad confirmed the completion of 5-kilometer road projects in Albasu, Gezawa, Tofa, Dawakin Tofa, and Dambatta, all equipped with solar-powered streetlights. Additional projects in six local governments, including Shanono, Ghari, and Kabo, are near completion as part of the state’s broader initiative to improve road networks in both metropolitan and rural areas.

He also provided updates on the metropolitan solar streetlight project, stating that Phases One and Two had been completed, while preparations were underway for Phase Three to enhance lighting across Kano city.

Addressing concerns about road expansions, the Commissioner clarified that some long-pending projects, initially awarded over 12 years ago, had been revalidated for completion. The Federal Government has also awarded some of these roads, which were previously under the state’s control. Efforts are underway to reconcile these developments to prevent duplication of work and ensure efficient use of resources.

Funds saved from federal interventions will be redirected to other critical infrastructure projects across the state.

Engr. Ahmad concluded by stating that preparations were underway to roll out new infrastructure projects under the 2025 budget, with several already in the tendering process. By the end of this year, most of the earmarked projects will be fully underway, with contractors mobilized to sites to ensure timely completion.

With these ongoing efforts, the Kano State Government aims to enhance transportation, public services, and urban development, significantly improving the quality of life for residents.

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