From Umar Danladi Ado, Sokoto
The Chairman of Kebbe Local Government Area, Hon. Abdullahi Yarima, on Saturday lauded the Minister of State for Works, Alhaji Bello Mohammed Goronyo, and the Sokoto State Government for their swift intervention in the rehabilitation of the collapsed Rara Bridge.
The bridge, which links Kuchi District to several neighbouring communities and serves as a major route to Sokoto metropolis, collapsed weeks ago, cutting off residents from vital social and economic activities.
Speaking on the development, Yarima said the collapse subjected farmers, traders, motorists, and commuters to severe hardship, as they were forced to take longer and more dangerous alternative routes to markets, schools, and health facilities.
He lamented that the situation almost crippled the economy of Kebbe, describing the area as one of the state’s major food-producing zones.
Yarima, however, noted that the intervention of the Works Minister came as a “huge relief” to residents of Rara, Kuchi, and surrounding communities, who had been living in fear and uncertainty since the bridge caved in.
According to him, the prompt approval for the rehabilitation project demonstrated Goronyo’s commitment to the welfare of rural dwellers and the importance the Federal Government places on grassroots development.
The Kebbe Chairman also commended Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s administration for swiftly dispatching officials to assess the damage and provide immediate relief to stranded commuters, saying the gesture reassured the people that their plight had not been ignored.
He added that the collaboration between the federal and state governments rekindled the hope of Kebbe residents in purposeful leadership and responsive governance.
“The rehabilitation of the bridge will not only restore free movement of goods and services but also boost agriculture, trade, and security across the region,” Yarima stated.
The Council boss further urged residents to support government initiatives and protect public infrastructure, stressing that sustainable development could only be achieved through collective responsibility.
While praying for the success of Governor Aliyu’s administration, Yarima reiterated his gratitude to Minister Goronyo, describing the Rara Bridge project as a milestone in the history of Kuchi District and a true symbol of responsive governance.