The Plateau State Government has moved to strengthen economic connectivity across the state with the reconstruction of the 41-kilometre Bisichi–Fan–Mangu Halle Road, linking communities and opening up a major route for the movement of people, farm produce and goods.
Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, who flagged off the project on Wednesday at Fan District, said the road was no longer being treated as a routine rehabilitation project but as part of his administration’s broader plan to provide infrastructure capable of supporting Plateau’s long-term development.
The road, originally awarded in 2012 as a surface-dressed road on a laterite base, is now being upgraded to a full asphalt road to meet current traffic demands and address the deteriorating condition of the existing route.
Mutfwang said the completed road would reduce travel time and improve access to markets, healthcare facilities, schools and other essential services across the benefiting communities.
“Upon completion, this road will reduce travel time, improve road safety, facilitate access to markets, healthcare facilities, schools and other essential services,” the governor said.
The governor said the project would also complement the Foron–Bakin Kogi–Kadunu–Gindiri Road, describing the various road projects as part of efforts to strengthen connections between communities and the state’s three senatorial districts.
Beyond the state-funded project, Mutfwang disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had approved the Mararaban Jama’a–Mangu–Kanke–Langtang–Shendam–Ibi Road, a development he said would further expand Plateau’s connection to neighbouring areas.
He expressed appreciation to Tinubu for his support, saying the collaboration between the state and Federal Government was creating opportunities for infrastructure development, economic growth and improved livelihoods.
For communities along the route, the project is also expected to improve access to agricultural markets and encourage economic activities, particularly as the state government seeks to increase agricultural productivity.
Mutfwang said the government was working towards introducing modern greenhouse farming systems that would require less land while producing higher yields, stressing the need to create sustainable economic opportunities for rural communities.
Commissioner for Works, Dr. Cletus Shurkuk, described the road as an important economic and social link, saying its completion would stimulate economic activities, create opportunities and improve the quality of life of residents.
The Chairman of Barkin-Ladi Local Government Area, Hon. Stephen Pwajok, and the Da Gwom Rwai of Fan, Da Iliya Dashwai, pledged the support of the communities, while the contractor, Eighteen Engineering International Construction Company, assured the government that the project would be delivered according to specification and within the agreed timeframe.
The project, therefore, represents more than a road connection for the communities along the corridor, as the Mutfwang administration seeks to use infrastructure to improve mobility, expand economic opportunities and build stronger links across Plateau State.
