RAAMP says Kwara govt drives infrastructure development

Isaac Kolo, the Kwara State Coordinator of the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), a World Bank-assisted Programme, has reaffirmed the Government commitment to enhancing the livelihoods of citizens through improved road infrastructure and connectivity.

Kolo stated this while delivering a speech at the 47th Media Parliament of the Kwara State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).

Speaking on the theme, “Ending Rural-Urban Migration Through Quality Road Infrastructure,” he highlighted the critical role of road networks in fostering economic growth and improving the living standards of rural dwellers.

He noted that migration from rural to urban areas often leads to negative consequences for both the departure and destination communities, including increased crime rates, inadequate infrastructure, overcrowding, and deepening poverty.

Kolo emphasised that quality road infrastructure plays a vital role in curbing rural-urban migration by facilitating free movement, enhancing transportation of goods, improving farmers’ access to farmlands, reducing transportation costs, and ensuring seamless delivery of essential services such as healthcare, education and others.

He further stated that well-constructed and motorable roads would significantly reduce migration, boost local markets, and promote sustainable development.

Read also: World Bank, FG’s $600m RAAMP project to expand farmers’ market access

On the issue of funding, Kolo stated that the Kwara State Government had approved over N4 billion as Counterpart funding for road projects.

He assured that the funds were judiciously utilised to execute critical road projects across the State even as he revealed plans to upgrade some key markets to international standards.

Kolo, praised Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq’s administration for its commitment to substantial financial investments in the sector so as to ensure road infrastructure development.

Earlier, Abdullateef Lanre Ahmed, Chairman of the Kwara State Council of NUJ, described the Media Parliament as a platform for Government officials and stakeholders to engage with journalists on pressing societal issues.

He urged participants to pay close attention to the discussion, as the topic directly impacts food security and sufficiency through improved road networks.