Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, on Monday described former President Dr Goodluck Jonathan as his political father and mentor, saying the values he learnt under Jonathan shaped the commissioning of 18 township roads in the state capital worth N58.7 billion.
Jonathan, who was Special Guest of Honour at the ceremony in Bauchi metropolis, was praised by the governor for exemplary leadership and commitment to democracy.
“We are deeply honoured by your presence. Your dedication to the unity of our nation will continue to inspire many,” Mohammed said.
Speaking directly to the former president, the governor said the project reflected lessons absorbed while serving in Jonathan’s administration.
“Today is more than the commissioning of roads. It is a celebration of a promise kept. Whatever I learned as a politician, I learned from Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan: clear roadmap, prudent use of resources, inspection and timeliness,” he said.
“I will never forget you, my dear father, because you inspired me to come back home to serve after being prepared by you.” The governor further disclosed.
The governor announced the completion of 18 roads covering 49.7 kilometres across Bauchi metropolis at an estimated cost of N58,726,413,058.95.
He said the roads strategically link residential areas, commercial centres, schools, security formations and public facilities, and were built to engineering standards with durable pavement, efficient drainage, reinforced culverts, traffic signs, thermoplastic markings and solar-powered street lighting on selected routes.
According to Mohammed, the administration’s approach to public funds was drawn from Jonathan’s example.
“This project represents our commitment to prudent management of public resources that you taught us, and our determination to provide infrastructure that drives economic growth and improves quality of life,” he stated.
On his part, former President Jonathan said the 49.7km network is more than asphalt, describing it as one of the largest urban infrastructure investments in the state’s history.
“It is a celebration of visionary leadership, responsible governance, and purposeful investment in infrastructure that directly improves the quality of life of our people,” he said.
The former president noted that this was his third visit to Bauchi and stressed the role of roads in national development.
“No society can achieve sustainable growth without reliable roads. Roads remain critical for development, connecting communities, facilitating commerce, creating opportunities, and promoting inclusive growth,” Jonathan said.
He urged residents to protect the new infrastructure, adding that “their maintenance and protection are shared responsibilities.”
Jonathan also described Bala Mohammed, who served as FCT minister, as one of the best ministers that served under his government.
“He has continued to justify the confidence reposed in him by the people,” he said.
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