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Friday, January 24, 2025

Delta Launches Stakeholders’ Consultation On Road Sector Reforms

BY JUMAI NWACHUKWU

The Delta State Government has kicked-off the inaugural stakeholders’ consultation for road sector reforms under the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), a ground-breaking initiative aimed at improving rural connectivity and agricultural marketing.

The project, a collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, the Federal Ministry of Finance, and the World Bank, seeks to address critical challenges faced by rural communities.

The consultation was held in Asaba with both in-person and virtual participation, organized by the Federal Project Monitoring Unit (FPMU) of RAAMP and hosted by the State Coordinator of the project, Engr. Solomon Aghagba. In his opening remarks, the State Coordinator of RAAMP, Engr. Solomon Aghagba emphasized the transformative potential of the initiative, highlighting its focus on improving rural access, enhancing market opportunities, and reducing post-harvest losses.

“This project represents a transformative opportunity for rural roads development in Delta State,” Engr. Aghagba stated. “Through RAAMP, we are committed to addressing challenges in rural connectivity, improving market access, and reducing post-harvest losses. The success of this initiative depends on the active participation of all stakeholders present here today.”

Similarly, a consultant engaged by the FPMU, Mr. Graham Smith  outlined the project’s focus on institutional reforms, particularly the establishment of two key bodies: the Rural Access Roads Agency (RARA) and the State Road Fund (SRF).

“These institutions are critical for ensuring the sustainability and maintenance of rural road networks, RARA will oversee road development, while the SRF will ensure consistent funding for road maintenance, safeguarding long-term benefits for rural communities.” He said

In his address, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, reiterated the state government’s commitment to bridging the gap between rural and urban areas through infrastructure development.

“This initiative is not just about building roads; it is about empowering our rural communities, improving livelihoods, and creating opportunities for economic growth,” he said. Mr. Aniagwu also emphasized the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to maximize the project’s impact. Mr. Aniagwu noted that the inaugural consultation will mark a significant step forward in Delta State’s journey toward improving rural connectivity and fostering sustainable development. With the establishment of institutional frameworks and active stakeholder engagement, the state is poised to unlock new opportunities for its rural communities.

According to the convener of the event, Engr. Alhassan Aliyu, highlighted an overview of the RAAMP initiative, which was conceived in 2018 and is currently active in 19 states, with Delta State as one of the latest entrants. He explained that the project aims to rehabilitate rural roads, enhance access to agricultural markets, and foster sustainable development across Nigeria.

Engr. Aliyu also stressed the importance of stakeholder involvement in shaping the project’s goals and ensuring the sustainability of the reforms.

“The purpose of this consultation is to sensitize stakeholders on the project’s objectives and institutional road reform agenda while obtaining valuable feedback to guide implementation,” he said. He noted that the consultation features two phases of engagement, bringing together a broad spectrum of stakeholders from various sectors and levels of governance. Participants included representatives from government agencies, local communities, agricultural groups, and development partners, all united in their commitment to RAAMP’s objectives.

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