Opinion: Gusau -Magami-Dansadau’s Road Project Approval — Progress or Poor Judgment?

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By Mohammed Kabir. 





The Zamfara State Executive Council’s recent approval of the second phase of the Gusau–Magami–Dansadau Road project may appear, on the surface, as a step forward in the state’s infrastructure development. However, a closer look at the details reveals more cause for concern than celebration.

At the Council’s meeting on Monday, 20th October 2025, it was announced that the first phase of the road, awarded to Dantata and Sawoe Construction Company, had seen only 10 kilometres completed out of the planned 30. Despite this poor performance, the government decided to retain the contractor — merely warning that failure to accelerate progress could lead to termination of the contract.

This decision raises legitimate questions about accountability and the management of public contracts. In a state where infrastructural decay has slowed economic growth and rural development, allowing an underperforming contractor to continue sends the wrong signal. Citizens expect decisive leadership — not repeated tolerance of mediocrity.

Even more troubling is the absence of transparency surrounding the new approvals. The second and third phases of the same road have been awarded to PW Nigeria Limited, yet the announcement offers no information on the total project cost, source of funding, or the criteria used to select the company. Without such critical details, the process risks appearing opaque — a familiar problem that has plagued many public projects across Nigeria.

The government’s statement also ends with the now-familiar political refrain about “rescuing Zamfara” and “boosting economic activities for all citizens.” While such rhetoric sounds inspiring, residents have heard similar promises before — often without corresponding action on the ground.


It is worth reminding policymakers that good governance is not measured by the number of contracts approved, but by the number of projects completed on time, within budget, and to acceptable standards. A responsible government must not only build roads but also build public trust through transparency, discipline, and accountability.


Before awarding new phases, the Zamfara State Government should have ensured that the first segment of the Gusau–Magami–Dansadau Road was completed to standard. Anything less suggests misplaced priorities and weak oversight.


If the administration of Governor Dauda Lawal is genuinely committed to rebuilding the state, it must demonstrate that commitment through strict enforcement of contracts, open disclosure of financial details, and visible results — not just statements.

Only then will such announcements inspire confidence rather than skepticism.

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