


Permanent Secretary charges Council to offer technical support The Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Works, Yakubu Adam Kofarmata (PHD) has urged members of the Council of Works to provide technical support to unlocking infrastructure potentials in Nigeria. Kofarmata stated this while speaking at the 29th meeting of the National Council on Works holding at Abakaliki, Ebonyi State. The Council which commenced on Monday 15th July, 2024 has the theme: UNLOCKING INFRASTRUCTURAL POTENTIALS AND OPPORTUNITIES AS CATALYST FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT UNDER THE RENEWED HOPE AGENDA. The Permanent Secretary said: " the objective behind the choice of this theme is to ensure that all memoranda from stakeholders and the general public are strictly based on as well as informed by those issues and subject matter that address the thematic areas of the various sub- themes derived from the Council's theme held the previous day. "I am pleased to note that these strategic sub- themes include; policy formulation and implementation, institution strengthening, adoption of Continuously Reinforced Concrete Pavement (CRCP) in road construction in Nigeria, integrated financing and alternative funding for roads and bridges projects in Nigeria ". Kofarmata also noted other sub-themes include emergency preparedness and response in road maintenance and sustainability, tackling road infrastructure deficit through strategic partnership and use of alternative technologies, and development of a national infrastructure data bank: a veritable tool for road infrastructure delivery in Nigeria. He said that the meeting of the Permanent Secretaries of Ministries of works across the States in Nigeria is coming after the meeting of the Directors and experts earlier held, purposely to enable them to have high level of technical session to deliberate and adopt drafted technical reports generated from the previous session of experts. "I therefore urge you to passionately apply due diligence in your consideration of the draft technical report with a view to doing justice by being objective to enable us deliver this national assignment seamlessly, without fear or favour. "We must focus our eyes on the ball, having at the back of our minds the ultimate goal, which is the preparation of a comprehensive, credible and a good draft technical report admissible by the National Council on Works (NCW) at the end of the day", he said. Abdullahi Mohammed Assistant Chief Information Officer. For: Acting Head, Information and Public Relations ...
10 DAYS TO THE 2024 BIRTHDAY ANNIVERSARY OF A MAN OF GREAT INTUITIVE SAGACITY AND STEWARD LEADERSHIP, AN INGENIOUS INNOVATOR AND DOYEN OF HUMAN CAPITAL TRANSFORMATION The hall of fame of people with transformative powers in contemporary Nigeria's democratic leadership trajectory surely flourishes with records of people who have made remarkable impacts in inspiring positive transformation in all spheres of territorial governance. I am proud to speak to the great attributes of the Honourable Minister of Works, His Excellency, Sen. Engr. Nweze David Umahi CON and his contributions in positively changing the narrative of every domain of national and subnational territorial governance where he has the opportunity to serve humanity. Born on 25th July 1963 to the humble family of late Elder and Deaconess Joseph Umahi Nweze in Umunaga Uburu in Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Sen. Umahi, by nature, nurture and inclination, is a humble servant leader and innovator, a passionate problem solver and development strategist, and an exemplary leader with transformative powers. He is best described as a man of great intuitive sagacity and steward leadership, an ingenious innovator and rare doyen of human capital transformation. Sen. Umahi's impacts as a successful captain of industry, Deputy Governor, Governor of Ebonyi State for 8 years, Chairman of South East Governors' Forum for 8 years, Chairman of Southern Governors' Forum, first Deputy Majority Leader of the 10th Senate and Chair of the Senate's Integrity Group, and now Honourable Minister of Works, Federal Republic of Nigeria, have added a significant value in the development milestones of our country. He is a great benefactor as many have received his magnetic and magnificent inspirations of love, compassion, mentorship, philanthropy, and empowerment. He is a gem of inestimable value, a wealth creator, and a great political stabilizer; he is a seasoned advocate and proclaimer of justice, equity, and good conscience; he is a nationalist, bridge builder and patriot. Among his landmark triumphs in his political sojourn is his vision to become Governor, which was perfected by God alone in the most historic and symbolic manner, and his record-breaking performance as Governor that thrilled human imaginations; his prophetic declaration for national mainstreaming through the progressive platform of All Progressives Congress (APC) at a time the journey seemed suicidal and his victorious flags and flying colours that outwitted all legal and extra-legal recourses that ambushed his generous political calculations. Thank God for the inherent rights of appeal that saw him through in both the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court. Thank God also for the mutual fidelity between him and his successor, who provided the unshaken foundational support that saw him through during the battles. In his new office as Honourable Minister of Works, the waves of road infrastructure transformation and policy innovations are creating greater hopes and returning the desired confidence of road users nationwide in line with the visionary aspirations of the Renewed Hope administration of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, the grand initiator of concrete technology in Nigeria. All these are virtues that deserve our celebration. Thursday, 25th July 2024, is a great day in the hearts of all who have benefitted in one way or the other from the large and kind heart of His Excellency, Sen. Engr. Nweze David Umahi, Commander of Order of the Niger, Fellow Nigerian Society of Engineers, Fellow Nigerian Association of Technologists in Engineering, and Great Grand Commander Ebonyi Hall of Fame, as he shall turn 61 years of impactful life. It is a day to especially remember our benefactor and his family in our prayers and to share our joy, extend our best regards, and convey our best wishes to him, glorifying God for his rewarding service to humanity and his stewardship which he anchors gloriously. Indeed, 25th July is always memorable in our hearts. Hearty cheers in advance to the Honourable Minister of Works. ...
Sokoto-Kebbi Superhighway: Leaders Applaud President Tinubu's Bold Initiative The Minister of Works, Engr. Nweze David Umahi; together with major stakeholders have applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's government for heeding to the cry of millions of Nigerians to resuscitate the 48-year-old Superhighway project. They expressed their appreciation at the stakeholders' meeting held in Birnin-kebbi on the alignment for sections 1 & 2 of the superhighway, covering 120 KM in Sokoto and 258 KM in Kebbi, totaling 378 KM, and ending in Badagry, Lagos State. In his opening remarks, the Honourable Minister disclosed that the superhighway will begin from Illela in Sokoto (120 KM) through Argungu, Bunza, and Kamba, ending at Bida town in Niger State for the first and second phases. Umahi explained that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would officially kick off the project in Kebbi State, benefiting the people of the state, especially in agriculture, commerce, and boosting security. He stated, "I request the people of Kebbi State and Sokoto State to support this project. Wherever there is a need to compensate the people, we will sit down with you and work it out with the local communities." The Minister noted that the route of the superhighway was the oldest Trans-Sahara trade route, initiated over 48 years ago but not implemented until President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration. He emphasized that the federal government would start using concrete for road construction in the Northern region to ensure longevity for up to 100 years. Umahi also highlighted that the federal government had completed many road projects in Sokoto State and promised that all road projects in Kebbi State, particularly the Koko-Mahuta-Dabai and Malando-Wara roads, would be addressed. He added that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu should be commended for implementing the 48-year-old project, which would benefit not only Nigerians but also neighboring countries like Niger Republic, Bénin, and others. In his remarks, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, described the project as very important. He noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had asked cabinet members to source funds for executing the project despite global economic challenges. Bagudu stated that the vision of the President was to address the reality on ground and secure necessary funding for the benefit of Nigerians and future generations. He said, "That is why President Bola Ahmed Tinubu directed us to go and source the funds to6 execute our projects. Nigeria is the most vibrant economy with a lot of potential capacity. This project is just the tip of the iceberg. Nigerians should expect many more of such projects." He added that due to the courage and determination of the current administration, world leaders have acknowledged Nigeria's boldness and readiness to assist in areas of need. Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for implementing the project and kicking it off in Kebbi State. Idris sought the state's input on the route passages, noting that the government wanted the project execution to be fair and just to the communities directly benefiting from it. "We need to give our inputs before the conclusion of the project so that we can do justice to our people. We are taking a lion's share of the project, and we have to be just and fair to our people since the project will have direct benefits for them," he said. The Governor also sought the Minister's intervention on the Koko-Mahuta-Dabai and Malando-Wara roads, stressing that the people of these areas, including four LGAs, are suffering due to bad roads. Senator Adamu Aliero, representing Kebbi Central Senatorial District, expressed his full support for the project and urged the Minister to address the Koko-Mahuta-Dabai and Malando-Wara roads. The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Senator Barinade Npigi, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for implementing the project, noting that it had been initiated over 48 years ago. He assured that the Senate would continue to support the Presidency in executing meaningful projects for Nigerians. Hon. Hakeem Alabi, stated that the House of Representatives would also provide legislative support to ensure appropriate budget allocation for the President's projects. Traditional rulers, including the Emir of Argungu Alhaji Samaila Muhammad Mera, pledged support and cautioned against potential flooding during construction. Former Governor Alhaji Saidu Nasamu Dakingari commended President Tinubu for liberating a vast forest area. Abdullahi Ameen Mohammed For: Ag Director Press and Public Relations ...
FG Scales Up Infrastructure Development in Tertiary Institutions
Hands Over 1.1km road to Fed. Poly Ukana-Uyo
76 Tertiary Institutions to benefit
The administration of President Muhammadu Buhari has again lived up to its campaign promise of bridging the infrastructural gaps in the country by providing accessible roads network in tertiary institutions across the six geopolitical zones.
That was evident as a fully rehabilitated and constructed 1.1 kilometre road at the Federal Polytecnic Ukana-Uyo in Awka Ibom State executed by the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing was commissioned and handed over to the institution on Tuesday, March 29,2022 by the Honourable Minister of Works and Housing,Mr.Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN.
Represented at the ceremony by the Federal Controller Works in Akwa Ibom State, Engr.Gabriel Akinwande said, " The gap of our infrastructure needs is steadily being bridged by a gradual process of repairs, renewal and construction on major highways and it has reached the schools."
Fashola described the construction of internal roads at various campuses as a deliberate step by government to positively impact on the quality of education as well as create a conducive learning environment for renewed enthusiasm with regards to attending classes by students.
'' We have successfully intervened in the internal road networks of 46 tertiary institutions and have handed over 29 as at 2021.We now have another 17 ready to be handed over with about 30 more roads in similar institutions across the country receiving attention of the Buhari-led administration," he added.
Earlier in his opening remarks, the Rector of the Federal Polytecnic Ukana,
Akwa Ibom State, Dr. Udak Ukekpe appreciated President Muhammadu Buhari for his interest in enhancing education in the country through the provision of logistics like the construction of internal road network in tertiary institutions.
He added that the road rehabilitation was timely and will add great value to the students and other road users in the campus, noting that the action of the Federal Government will also go a long way in addressing the infrastructural deficit in the institution.
Dr. Ukekpe pleaded with the Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN to further assist the institution in the remaining 3.1km road left to be covered.
In an Interview, the Vice President of the Students Union Government (SUG) Ms. Blessing Mbonisa said the construction of the road had made the school opened to everyone and that it has boosted the morale of the students academics.
A lecturer, the coordinator of Mechanical Engineering Department, Engineer Emabong Etieakpan, while appreciating the Minister, pointed out that the road has been helpful to both staff and students most especially the motorists and those walking in and out of the school.
“There was no road in this place before. It was a busy area that nobody can access, but now, with the road construction, students can now easily go to their lecture rooms without flood which was not like that before."
The event was well attended by students, staff and board of directors of the school as well as the traditional leader of Ukana West in person of His Royal Highness Okuku Sylvanus Obot Ekanem.
Remarks by The Honourable Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, SAN Represented by Zonal Director Highways (C&R), Engr. Wasiu Adetayo at The Commissioning and Handover Ceremony on Saturday 18th June, 2022 at Birniwa, Jigawa State
On behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria and President Muhammadu Buhari, I bring good tidings to the peoples and Government of Jigawa State, who will be impacted by the Hadeijia-Nguru Road, that our President will hand over today.
My principal message to you all is that this is the first of the second phase of project Completion and Handovers our country will be witnessing as we progress further in this season of completion and impact which started in the last quarter of 2021.
In this second phase of completion Mr. President has also approved that Ministers from the various States where projects have been completed should represent him to perform the handover formalities.
The other handing over formalities that will follow these formalities Jigawa will be in:
a) Delta for Isoko Ring Road Section II covering Aviara – Uzere.
b) Yobe for Section II and Phase I of the Nguru – Gashua – Bayamari Road covering Gashua to Bayamari; Section I, Phase II covering Nguru to Gashua.
c) Nasarawa for Lafia – Obi – Awe – Tunga Road.
d) Gombe for Phase II of the Gombe – Numan –Yola Road covering Gombe – Kaltungo.
These projects represent major investment in road Transport infrastructure, which is a commitment of the Buhari administration as a driver for economic growth and prosperity.
They are visible and incontrovertible Assets in proof of what Nigeria’s resources are invested in, from a combination of our earned resources, and borrowings.
This occasion affords the opportunity to restate that in addition to other innovative sources of funding, our Budgetary provisions are also being diligently applied to complete projects such as these.
I want to express deep gratitude to the Ministry of Finance, and the members of the National Assembly, especially the Chairmen of the Senate and House Committees on Works in the 8th and 9th Assembly for their support.
To our staff and contractors who have worked very hard to bring these projects to conclusion I also say thank you, as I cannot fail to acknowledge the cooperation of the host communities where these projects pass through or are hosted.
I hold them out as examples of what peace can achieve, and the investments that collaboration and some sacrifice can deliver if we embrace partnership with Government.
Ladies and Gentlemen, none of these would have been possible without the support of Ministers in the Federal Executive Council during debates over the projects.
To all Ministers in the first term and this current term, I express gratitude on behalf of the Ministry of Works and Housing for your support.
To the President and Vice President who preside for long hours over the Council meetings, your leadership is now bearing fruits and the evidence of change is now manifesting.
Ekiti/Osun, Delta, Gombe, Yobe, and Nasarawa among several other States bearing witness and there is more to come.
Thank You.
BABATUNDE RAJI FASHOLA, SAN
MINISTER OF WORKS AND HOUSING
DRIVING NIGERIA’S FUTURE: CELEBRATING TWO YEARS OF TRANSFORMATIVE LEADERSHIP AND THE LAGOS-CALABAR COASTAL HIGHWAY MILESTONE
DRIVING NIGERIA’S FUTURE: CELEBRATING TWO YEARS OF TRANSFORMATIVE LEADERSHIP AND THE LAGOS-CALABAR COASTAL HIGHWAY MILESTONE
MID -TERM REVIEW MEETING ON THE IMPLIMENTATION OF THE DECISIONS REACHED AT THE 29TH NATIONAL COUNCIL ON WORKS (NCW) DAY 1
MID -TERM REVIEW MEETING ON THE IMPLIMENTATION OF THE DECISIONS REACHED AT THE 29TH NATIONAL COUNCIL ON WORKS (NCW) DAY 1