A torrential downpour has caused severe damage to the federal highway connecting Kano to Maiduguri, particularly between Malori and Guskuri villages in the Katagum Local Government Area of Bauchi State.
The heavy flooding has carved a large crater in the middle of the road, leaving motorists stranded and forcing them to seek alternative routes.
The Kano-Maiduguri highway is a vital artery linking Nigeria’s Northwest and Northeast regions, facilitating the movement of goods and services across the country. The road’s destruction has sparked concerns over its impact on regional trade and transportation.
Bauchi State Governor Bala Muhammad visited the site on Thursday to assess the extent of the damage.
Speaking to journalists, Governor Muhammad underscored the strategic importance of the highway and called on the Federal Government to expedite repairs.
“This is a major highway, the Northeast highway, and the dual carriageways have been completely washed away. We are calling on the Federal Government to assist. We will report this issue to Abuja through the Controller of Works,” Governor Muhammad said.
He also emphasized that if federal assistance is not forthcoming, the state government will take action to implement temporary or permanent repairs, similar to interventions made during previous rainy seasons.
Bauchi State has been heavily impacted by flooding this year, with significant damage reported across multiple local government areas.
The destruction of the Kano-Maiduguri highway is the latest in a series of infrastructure challenges posed by the seasonal rains.
The governor’s call for urgent federal intervention highlights the critical need for infrastructure resilience in the face of extreme weather events.
As the region grapples with the aftermath of the flood, the quick restoration of the highway is seen as essential for maintaining economic stability and ensuring the safe passage of goods and travelers across Northern Nigeria.