The Kano State government has approved N1.705 billion for the construction of a surface-dressed road linking Chiromawa to Garun Babba in Garun Malam Local Government Area, following years of complaints by residents over the poor condition of the road.
The approval, which covers the construction of the Chiromawa–Garun Babba road, was part of decisions taken at the 37th Kano State Executive Council meeting held on January 16, at the Malam Aminu Kano House, Governor’s Lodge, Asokoro, Abuja.
For residents of Garun Babba and surrounding communities, the decision marks a major turning point after decades of neglect that left the road almost impassable, especially during the rainy season.
The road serves as a critical link for farmers, traders, students, and commuters travelling between rural settlements and urban markets in Kano.
The government’s action comes less than four months after a Community Report aired on Cool FM Kano, Wazobia FM Kano, and Arewa Radio on October 10, drawing public attention to the deteriorated state of the road.
The report documented collapsed sections, deep potholes, erosion damage, and the difficulties faced daily by residents, particularly women, children, and the elderly.
Following the broadcast, community members intensified calls for urgent government intervention, warning that continued neglect would worsen economic hardship and safety risks in the area.
Residents reported frequent vehicle breakdowns, higher transport fares, delayed access to healthcare, and reduced movement of farm produce to markets.
According to official records from the Executive Council meeting, the approved sum of N1,705,212,281.42 will be used to construct a surface-dressed road, a method expected to improve durability while reducing maintenance costs.
The project is expected to significantly ease transportation challenges and boost economic activities across Garun Malam Local Government Area.
Reacting to the approval, the District Head of Garin Babba, Abdulmumin Zakari, welcomed the decision, describing it as timely and responsive to the needs of the people.
“This approval is commendable and long overdue. The road is very important to our people because it connects several farming communities. Its rehabilitation will improve movement, enhance safety, and support livelihoods.”
He added that community leaders would continue to engage relevant authorities to ensure the project is executed according to specifications and completed within the schedule.
A youth leader in the community, Musbahu Haske, also expressed optimism, noting that the road project could open up economic opportunities for young people.
Haske also praised the role of the triple station in amplifying community concerns and holding authorities accountable.
“We appreciate Cool FM, Wazobia FM, and Arewa Radio for consistently highlighting the challenges faced by communities like ours. Without sustained media attention, many of these issues would remain invisible,” Haske said.
Haske urged the contractor handling the project to prioritise quality and transparency throughout the construction process, stressing that poor execution would only compound existing challenges.
“This road must be done properly. We expect transparency, adherence to standards, and regular supervision so that the money approved truly benefits the people.”
Residents say the road’s rehabilitation could also improve access to essential services such as healthcare and education.
During the rainy season, pregnant women and sick residents often struggle to reach health facilities due to flooded and damaged sections of the road. Schoolchildren, they say, are frequently late or absent because vehicles avoid the route.
Community members hope the project will not only restore confidence in government responsiveness but also serve as proof that citizen-led reporting can influence policy action.
While optimism remains high, residents and community leaders agree that sustained monitoring will be necessary to ensure the project delivers lasting impact.
As construction is expected to commence in the coming months, the Chiromawa–Garun Babba road stands as a test case for how public engagement, media advocacy, and responsive governance can converge to address long-standing infrastructure gaps in rural communities across Kano State.
