Federal Ministry of Works

Oct

2026

LATEST PRESS

GORONYO COMMENDS SOKOTO GOVERNOR FOR DONATING 10 HILUX VEHICLES TO STRENGTHEN SECURITY ALONG SOKOTO–BADAGRY SUPERHIGHWAY

The Honourable Minister of State for Works, Rt. Hon. Bello Muhammad Goronyo, Esq., has commended the Governor of Sokoto State, Dr. Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, PhD, for donating 10 operational Toyota Hilux vehicles to strengthen security operations along the Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway and other strategic infrastructure corridors.

The vehicles were formally commissioned and handed over to the Nigerian Army at the Headquarters of the 8 Division, Nigerian Army, Sokoto, on Thursday, October 8, 2026, by the Honourable Minister of State for Works, on behalf of the Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. David Nweze Umahi, CON, FNSE.
The donation is expected to enhance the operational capacity of military personnel and other security agencies responsible for protecting construction workers, contractors, equipment and host communities along the highway corridor.

Speaking during the ceremony, Goronyo described the donation as a demonstration of the Sokoto State Government’s commitment to national development and the successful implementation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly its landmark infrastructure projects.

The Minister emphasised that the Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway represents a long-standing national infrastructure vision that dates back several decades, with its conception traced to the era of former President Shehu Shagari in the 1970s. However, the vision remained unrealised for decades until the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, initiated the construction of the 1,068-kilometre highway in October 2024.

He described the project as a significant step towards translating a historic aspiration into tangible infrastructure that will connect communities, expand economic opportunities and strengthen national integration.

According to Goronyo, President Tinubu’s commitment to the project demonstrates the Federal Government’s determination to bridge critical infrastructure gaps and improve connectivity between northern and southern Nigeria.
He noted that the superhighway, which traverses Sokoto, Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, Oyo, Ogun and Lagos states, is designed to facilitate the movement of people and goods, reduce transportation costs, stimulate trade, create employment and open up new economic opportunities along its route.

The Minister added that the highway would improve access to markets, schools, healthcare facilities and other essential services while supporting agriculture, commerce, industry and the development of communities across the corridor.
He stressed that the successful delivery of the project would require sustained commitment, effective coordination and cooperation among the Federal Government, state governments, security agencies, contractors and host communities.

Goronyo maintained that effective security remained essential to the timely and successful completion of the Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway. He explained that the provision of operational vehicles would strengthen the mobility and response capabilities of security personnel deployed to safeguard the project and its surrounding communities.

The Minister highlighted other strategic infrastructure projects being undertaken by the Federal Government, including the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, the Calabar–Abuja/Trans-Saharan corridor, the Akwanga–Jos–Bauchi–Gombe corridor, the Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano route and the Zaria–Gusau–Sokoto corridor.
He explained that these projects form part of the Federal Government’s broader commitment to developing an integrated road network capable of supporting commerce, strengthening inter-state connections and accelerating national economic growth.

Rt. Hon. Goronyo further noted that the use of continuously reinforced concrete pavement on the Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway was intended to provide durable road infrastructure capable of serving Nigerians for decades. He added that complementary environmental and safety measures, including tree planting and solar-powered street lighting where provided for in the project, would contribute to environmental sustainability, visibility and road safety.

Goronyo commended the Nigerian Army and other security agencies for their resilience, professionalism and sacrifices in protecting lives, property and critical national infrastructure. He acknowledged the difficult conditions under which security personnel operate and urged them to remain steadfast in carrying out their constitutional responsibilities.

The Honourable Minister also expressed deep condolences to the Nigerian military over the reported loss of personnel in a bandit attack while on official duty the previous day. He described the loss as painful and extended his sympathy to the affected personnel, their colleagues and bereaved families, while praying for the peaceful repose of the departed and strength for their loved ones.

He further acknowledged the support of the National Security Adviser in addressing security challenges associated with the project, particularly through assistance and coordination aimed at strengthening security operations along the highway corridor.

Reaffirming his commitment to the Federal Government’s infrastructure development agenda, Goronyo said the Ministry of Works would continue to support the implementation of strategic projects under President Tinubu’s leadership, working in collaboration with relevant stakeholders to ensure their successful delivery.

He expressed optimism that the continued implementation of the Federal Government’s development programmes would bring lasting benefits to Nigerians, while acknowledging the complementary role of the Sokoto State Government in supporting infrastructure development and security.

In his remarks, the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 8 Division, Nigerian Army, Sokoto, Major General Bengba Paul Koughna, expressed appreciation to the Federal Government, the Federal Ministry of Works and the Sokoto State Government for the donation of the 10 Hilux vehicles.

The GOC noted that the vehicles would significantly enhance the operational mobility and response capabilities of troops deployed along the highway corridor, particularly across the approximately 440-kilometre section extending through Sokoto and Kebbi states.

He explained that troops conduct regular patrols and maintain multiple deployment points along the corridor, making the additional vehicles a valuable boost to their operational effectiveness.

He assured the Minister that the vehicles would be deployed appropriately to support security operations and protect construction workers, contractors, equipment and other stakeholders involved in the project.

The GOC also commended the representative of Hitech Construction Company, retired General Sa'ad Abubakar, for the company's involvement in the project.

The event was attended by retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) Aliyu Garba, officials of the Federal Ministry of Works, representatives of the Sokoto State Government and other stakeholders.
The donation underscores the importance of sustained collaboration among the Federal Government, state governments, security agencies, contractors and host communities in addressing security challenges and ensuring the safe and timely delivery of strategic infrastructure projects.

The Federal Ministry of Works reiterates its commitment to working with all relevant stakeholders to protect national infrastructure and advance the objectives of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR’s Renewed Hope Agenda for sustainable economic growth and development.

Oct

2025

TINUBU BUILDING ROADS THAT CAN LAST 50 TO 100 YEARS — Says UMAHI The Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, CON, FNSE, FNATE, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to delivering durable road infrastructure capable of lasting between 50 and 100 years. He made this statement during a follow-up inspection of ongoing works on the Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano Expressway, Section I (Abuja-Kaduna) on October 28, 2025. Speaking to newsmen, Engr. Umahi explained that the Ministry is adopting modern construction methods and using materials that ensure road longevity and sustainability under varying climatic and traffic conditions. “You cannot achieve a better California Bearing Ratio (CBR) by simply bringing laterite on the road. The existing subgrade, which has consolidated over years of traffic, has a stronger bearing capacity than a new one. That is why we are changing the approach — we are insisting on milling, stabilising, and strengthening, rather than removing old asphalt layers and replacing them with new materials,” the Minister stated. He praised the contractor, Messrs Infiouest International Limited for the quality of work done so far, noting that the project’s design is among the most advanced in the country. He further explained the engineering method being applied to ensure lasting results. “Wherever we have potholes within the carriageway, we don’t just patch. We treat the entire section using a stone base and, where necessary, stabilise it with cement. On the shoulders, we excavate about 10 centimeters below the existing asphalt, refill with a stone base slightly above the level, and compact properly. This ensures stability and prevents water from undermining the structure,” he revealed. Engr. Umahi emphasised that proper milling and concrete reinforcement at critical points are key to extending the life span of Nigerian roads. “Our design now prioritises rigid pavement (concrete roads) for major highways, while flexible pavements (asphaltic roads) are being phased out gradually. Where asphalt is used, we are introducing concrete shoulders to enhance strength and prevent failure. The goal is to ensure that no section of the road fails prematurely,” he further explained. The Minister also cautioned Engineers and Contractors against tampering with existing asphalt layers that are structurally stable. “Asphalt has a designed lifespan of about 25 years. When it is milled and recycled properly, it can serve even longer. We must adopt international best practices and stop unnecessary replacement of strong materials,” he advised. Engr. Umahi concluded by reiterating the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring that all ongoing projects meet the highest quality standards and deliver value to Nigerians. “We are building roads that will stand the test of time — roads that will last 50 to 100 years, save public funds, and promote economic growth, he affirmed. The Honourable Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammed Goronyo, Esq., has also reaffirmed that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, under the Renewed Hope Agenda, remains fully committed to improving the road infrastructure across the nation. He commended the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, for his dedication and hands-on approach in the field, particularly in mentoring and inspiring young Engineers to contribute, meaningfully, to national development. The Director of Highways, Special Projects (North), Engr. Olufemi Adetunji, also commended the pace and quality of work being executed by the Contractor, noting that the Minister’s consistent inspection visits are helping to ensure timely and high-standard project delivery. In his remarks, the Chairman of Infiouest International Limited, Mr. Joseph Aboue Jaoude, stated that the company has deployed about 300 units of equipment to the project to ensure efficient operations and the delivery of quality work within schedule. Similarly, the Special Assistants to the President (S.A.-P) on Community Engagement, North Central and North West Zones, Dr. Abiodun and Hon. Abdullahi Tanko Yakasai appreciated the efforts of the current administration in transforming the nation’s road network, describing the progress as a true reflection of the President’s commitment to development and quality service delivery to the Nigerians. ...

Oct

2025

Ministry Officials Pay Condolence Visit to Essan Community Over Lives Lost in Tanker Explosion ~ Promise Accelerated Palliative Works The Federal Ministry of Works has extended its heartfelt condolences to the people of Essan Community in Katcha Local Government Area of Niger State following the tragic tanker explosion that claimed several lives and caused extensive damage in the area. The delegation, on behalf of the Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, CON, expressed deep sorrow over the unfortunate incident. The Director, Highways, North Central, delivered the Minister’s message. Salihu Kolapo Ahmed, during a visit to the community head, the Dekechi of Essan, Alhaji Muhammad Dauda Muhammad. Engr. Umahi commiserated with the bereaved families and the entire community, describing the incident as a painful and avoidable tragedy. He assured the people that the Federal Government remains committed to improving the condition of the road network in the country to prevent similar accidents in the future. > “The Federal Ministry of Works mourns with you at this difficult time. We pray for the peaceful repose of the departed souls and strength for the families they left behind,” Engr. Umahi conveyed through his representative. “This sad event underscores the urgent need to accelerate, especially, the ongoing Reconstruction of the Lambata-Lapai-Agaie-Bida Road in Niger State. We are fully committed to ensuring safer and more reliable road infrastructure to avert future occurrences of such tragedies.” Following the message, prayers were offered for the repose of the departed souls and divine comfort for the grieving families. Responding, the Dekechi of Essan, Alhaji Muhammad, expressed deep appreciation to the Honourable Minister for his compassion and prompt response. He lamented the poor condition of the road linking the area, describing it as a “death trap” that has continued to endanger the lives of road users. > “We thank the Honourable Minister for standing with us in our moment of grief. The bad state of the road has made movement extremely difficult and dangerous. We appeal to the Federal Government to give urgent attention to this route so that lives can be saved,” the community head said. He called on the management of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to stop, forthwith, the overburdening of articulated vehicles with human beings, revealing that most of those who lost their lives in the inferno were such travelers not indigenes. The Ministry reaffirmed its resolve to prioritise the reconstruction of the road as part of ongoing efforts to enhance road safety, ease transportation challenges, and support economic development in the State and Nigeria, in general. “The Honourable Minister has directed that immediate assessments be carried out on the affected section with a view to implementing lasting engineering solutions that will improve safety and mobility,” Engr. Ahmed stressed. The visit underscores the Ministry’s human-centered approach under the leadership of Engr. David Umahi, CON, remains focused on building durable road infrastructure and responding promptly to the needs and concerns of Nigerian communities affected by road-related tragedies. Engr. Ahmed described the pace of work on the affected alignment as “too slow and unacceptable,” directing the contractor, Messrs CGC (Nig.) Ltd. to quickly deploy more resources and approach the work from more locations. “The contractor needs to mobilise more equipment to the site and let us have free movement of vehicles. Failure to do so, in the next few days, will attract decisive action,” he stated. The Project Manager, Mr. Fan Bo, assured that the company would mobilise more equipment within days to intensify work and ease the movement of people, goods, and services on the critically failed portions of the road. The Deputy Director, Construction at the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure Development, Niger State, Engr. Nasir Ahmed, disclosed that the Minister’s directive was aimed at ensuring free vehicular movement and reducing frequent accidents along the busy corridor. “This is a follow-up to the Niger State governor’s efforts. The Minister wants serious action so that there will be no more gridlocks or accidents on this road,” he added. He urged motorists, especially truck drivers, to remain patient and cooperate with the contractors during the construction period. “Their impatience causes a lot of the nuisances we see. They should be patient and follow instructions so that work can progress smoothly,” he advised. The 124.8-kilometre project, awarded several years ago, was phased into two sections by the current administration, with Phase 1 covering 92 kilometres from Lambata to Agaei, valued at N39 billion, remaining 10 kilometres to completion, and Phase 2, which covers the most critical section from Agaei to Bida, is soon to be awarded. ...

Oct

2025

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT STRENGTHENS PARTNERSHIP WITH ISLAMIC DEVELOPMENT BANK TO ACCELERATE ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT The Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. David Nweze Umahi, CON, FNSE, FNATE, has reiterated the Federal Government's commitment to strengthening partnerships with international development institutions to fast-track the completion of major road and bridge projects across the country. Engr. Umahi said this on the 22nd October 2025, when he received a delegation from the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Regional Hub (RH) in Nigeria, led by its Team Leader, Operations, Mr. Ibrahim Chalive, during a courtesy visit to his office in Abuja. The discussions held, centred on deepening the collaboration between the Federal Ministries of Works, Finance, and the IsDB, to fund and implement key components of the Four (4) Renewed Hope Legacy Road Projects under the administration of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. The Honourable Minister also emphasised that infrastructure remains a major driver of economic growth, noting that the Ministry is committed to transparent, innovative, and cost-effective project delivery. He reaffirmed that President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda accords high priority to road development as a catalyst for economic emancipation, job creation, and improved mobility of goods and people nationwide. He also expressed a profound gratitude and appreciation to the Honourable Members of the National Assembly for their support towards infrastructure development, particularly in facilitating funding interventions that align with the Renewed Hope Legacy Projects. Umahi further commended the Islamic Development Bank for its sustained interest and partnership in Nigeria’s infrastructure sector, describing the visit as a constructive step toward consolidating gains already achieved and expanding the scope of cooperation. In his remarks, Mr. Chalive conveyed the Bank’s satisfaction with the Ministry’s ongoing reforms in engineering design, quality assurance, and project management. He assured that the Bank remains committed to providing both financial and technical support to strengthen Nigeria’s infrastructure base. After their discussions, both parties agreed to establish a joint technical team to identify priority areas and develop a framework for collaboration that ensures accountability, transparency, and timely project delivery. This reinforced collaboration marks another milestone in the Federal Government’s drive to modernise Nigeria’s road network and advance the vision of sustainable national development. In attendance at the meeting was the Special Assistant to the President (S.A.-P.), Stakeholders Engagement, South East, Barr. Chioma Nweze. Mohammed A. Ahmed, Director, Press and Public Relations. 22nd October 2025. ...

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PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT

Nov

2025

OTHER NEWS

Mar

2022

FCE Guzau Joins Beneficiaries Of FG’s Ongoing Road Intervention Scheme

· As Fashola commissions, hands over 1.5 km rehabilitated road to the all-female institution

The Federal College of Education (Technical) Guzau, Zamfara State, Tuesday, March 8, 2022, joined other beneficiaries of the on-going Federal Government Road Intervention Scheme in Federal tertiary institutions across the country as the Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, SAN, commissioned and handed over a 1.50-kilometre internal road rehabilitated by the Ministry.

The road, which, according to some students and staff of the all-girls institution, was in a very dilapidated condition before the intervention by the Federal Government, constituted a very big challenge to both residents and day students, especially in terms of access to lecture halls and hostels as it is a major link between the halls of residence and lectures as well as administrative blocks.

In his address at the event which attracted top administrators of the institution and other dignitaries, including the Emir of Guzau, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Bello, among others, Fashola reiterated the commitment of the President Muhammad Buhari administration to extend infrastructure provision to tertiary institutions saying the purpose was to improve the education environment of the institutions.

The Minister, who was represented by the Federal Controller of Works in the State, Alhaji Hassan Muhammad Isa, said in addition to improving the quality of education in the institutions, the objective was also in line with the progressive ideal of the Buhari administration to improve human condition, adding that the scheme represented “a critical intervention to support education”.

The Minister told the esteemed audience which also included the Chairman Governing Council of the Institution, Architect Ubokutom Nyah, “It is undebatable that the quality of education will be impacted by the quality of infrastructure and the learning environment.” He added that those in doubt of the assertion should “Simply listen to feedbacks from students in the various institutions that have already benefited from the scheme.”

Pointing out that the Ministry is currently intervening in internal roads in 30 Federal Institutions across the country, Fashola said the Ministry had already successfully intervened in 45 such institutions, 29 of which had been handed over since 2021 while the handing over of another set of 17 completed ones, including the FCE (Technical) Guzau, has commenced.

“Today, we converge at the Federal College of Education (Technical), Guzau, to hand over an important asset, 1.50-kilometre rehabilitated road by the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing on behalf of the Federal Government”, the Minister said, adding that while a lot of work still needed to be done in all sectors of the nation’s economy, including education, the Buhari government has stepped up to lead the process of getting that work done.

He declared with delight,” The gap of our infrastructure need is steadily being bridged by a gradual process of repairs, renewals and constructions on our major highways and it has now reached the schools,” pointing out that the interventions have enhanced the enthusiasm of students with regards to attending classes as some defective roads in the institutions had been restored to good condition.

Pointing out that although the interventions come as civil Works project, they represent an investment in education as well as means of job creation. The Minister added that during the construction of the road, 31 people were employed in the process “contributing to the job creation initiative of the government”, expressing the hope that the benefiting schools would take ownership of the assets and protect them from abuse.

In his address, the Deputy Governor of Zamfara State, Senator Hassan Muhammad Nashiha, commended, the Federal Government for the intervention in the institution describing it as unique in the history of governments in the country. He specially congratulated the Minister “for undertaking the project in a very special way”.

He also commended the Chairman Governing Council of the Institution, who, according to him, has brought so many projects to the institution during his tenure, including renovation of hostels and toilets as well as recreation centre. The Deputy Governor, however pleaded with the Federal Government to build a perimetre fence around the institution considering the state of insecurity in the state.

Also in his goodwill message, the Emir of Gusau, HRM Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Bello, thanked President Buhari and the Minister of Works and Housing for carrying out the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the road in the institution saying it had constituted a grave challenge to students. He also pleaded with the government to help put a perimetre fence around the school especially as it is an all-female institution.

As for the students, the event was an occasion to express their joy and gratitude to the Federal Government and particularly the Minister of Works and Housing whom they praised for his consistency and dedication in carrying out the project to conclusion.

From the President of the Institution’s Students’ Union Government (SUG, Comrade Mariam Salisu, who studies Home Science to Nwada Oluchi Alago, who studies Home Economics and Fatima Abubakar, a Second Year Primary Education student; through Salihu Hamisu of ICT Department and Promise Julius and her two friends, Yemisi and Justina, who both study Biology and Integrated Science as well as Fatima Mohammad, a physically challenged student in Special Education Department, the intervention was both “God-sent and timely.”

Also present at the occasion were the Secretary to the Government of Zamfara State, The Chief of Staff to the Governor and some top officials of the State Government, deans of faculties and Directors of Departments as well a the executive officers of the Students Union Government and the students body who came in their large numbers to show their gratitude to the Federal Government for the intervention.

SPEECHES

Nov

2021

ADDRESS DELIVERED BY THE HONOURABLE MINISTER OF WORKS AND HOUSING, BABATUNDE RAJI FASHOLA SAN AT THE 27TH MEETING OF THE NATIONAL COUNCIL ON WOKS

PROTOCOL

It is my pleasure to welcome you all to the fourth day of this memorable event of the 27th meeting of the National Council on Works (NCW) being held in Bauchi State.

2. Let me first express my profound gratitude to His Excellency, Senator Bala A. Muhammed CON, the Executive Governor and the entire people of Bauchi State for accepting to host the 27th meeting of the National Council on Works (NCW). This has demonstrated the mutual relationship and peaceful coexistence between the Federal and Bauchi State Government. The Bauchi State, "the Pearl of Tourism" is no doubt the treasure of the Nation considering its many beautiful tourist attraction canters across the State.

3. The theme of this year's Council meeting "Infrastructure Delivery, Maintenance Economy and National Prosperity" was carefully selected to alleviate the problems associated with lack of maintenance of infrastructure being provided by the Federal, State and Local Governments which results to huge money and retard the economy growth.

4. Nigeria like other developing Countries is seriously confronted with inadequate resources for establishment of infrastructure which are essential for National Economic Development. Since the Independence, a large chunk of the country's resources has been channelled to infrastructure constructions including roads infrastructure. However, maintenance culture which encompasses provision for adequate care of hard-earned infrastructure is needed to ensure sustainability of these roads’ infrastructure for national prosperity. Experts have posited that if any nation can imbibe the maintenance culture in every sector of the economy, it will reduce cost and ensure national economic growth. Therefore, provision of adequate road infrastructure with a maintenance backup will no doubt help the government in saving more money to achieve National Economic Prosperity.

5. The highly acquired capital infrastructure is not given adequate maintenance to enable it have a longer lifespan needed to support development efforts and thereby deteriorate to the point of starting afresh. Therefore, acquired infrastructure such as constructed road network, bridges, road signage should be properly managed and adequately maintained to ensure durability and enable them live up to their life span of 20 years of road construction.

6. In prioritizing Maintenance culture in the road network with the goal of improving its 195,500 km road network of which about 60,000 km are paved while 135,000 road networks are un-tarred, the Federal Government and the States need to collaborate together along with investments from International
Finance Institutions and Public Private Partnership intervention in order to achieve the desired goal in Infrastructure Delivery, Maintenance Economy and National Prosperity.

7. Therefore, the 27th Council is expected to provide policy frame work that will sustain concerted and consistent culture of maintenance on the infrastructure on ground and also build in maintenance policy in the future road projects to move the country to the next level.

8. Kindly bear in mind that your recommendations will bear far reaching importance in Nation building and it is my prayer that our Highways will become safer and more comfortable for all and the nation's economy will be revamped and sustained.

9. I urge you to contribute meaningfully to the deliberations here today which will not only enhance improvement in the road infrastructure but will also stimulate world standard maintenance culture in the Nigerian road system.

10. Once again, I wish to express my profound gratitude to the Executive Governor and the entire people of Bauchi State for providing necessary provisions to ensure the hitch free of this year's Council meeting.

11. Thank you all and God bless