One of the major casualties of the Boko Haram insurgency – Damaturu/Biu highway in Yobe State- came back to life yesterday following its re-opening for public use by the army.
It was last used three years ago when it was rendered impassable by the insurgency.
The 132 km road is a critical artery that connects Yobe, Gombe, Taraba and Adamawa states.
Chief of Army Staff, Lt – Gen Tukur Buratai, speaking at a ceremony to mark the event at Buni Yadi one of the towns captured by the insurgents said the road was re-opened because of the “tremendous security improvement recorded in the area, and its socio-economic significance to Yobe, Borno and other neighbouring states.”
He described the occasion as another milestone by the army in its resolve to end insurgency and fast track the return of normalcy to sub-region.
His words:”a few weeks ago, Maiduguri -Damboa-Biu road was re-opened. Road re-opening will continue in all other affected areas to ensure that law abiding citizens go about their legitimate businesses while encouraging socio-economic activities to go on unhindered on this axis without fear of molestation or harm.
“This road is vital to the economy of Yobe and Borno considering the large scale economic activities taking place in southern part of the state.”
The Army Chief promised to continue to protect life and property of all law-abiding citizens plying the road, pointing out that the road reopening will encourage the return of more people to their communities.
He asked returnees to provide timely information on elements of the Boko Haram wherever they may be.
Yobe State governor, Alhaji Ibrahim Gaidam, represented by Commissioner of Works, Alhaji Mohammed Surajo Wakil assured that the state government would mobilize the contractors back to work. He also sought collaboration with Army co-engineers to complete the road project.
He commended the Nigeria Army for their commitment in ensuring that peace has returned, adding that they are waiting for final clearance from the military to return IDPs back to their communities.
Many residents of Buni Yadi went in droves after three years to clear their damaged houses preparatory to their return to normal life. Click to signup for FREE news updates, latest information and hottest gists everyday
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A few months ago, this same road was reported to be opened. So what happened then that it is been reopened again. did Boko Boyz recaptured it? make una they tell us the truth !
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