Federal Ministry of Works

Sep

2026

LATEST PRESS

UMAHI ORDERS IMMEDIATE EMERGENCY INTERVENTION ON BENIN-ASABA ROAD, AND SOME OTHER CRITICAL FEDERAL ROADS

The Honourable Minister of Works, Senator Engr. David Nweze Umahi, CON, has directed the immediate deployment of major contractors to all three sections of the Benin-Asaba Federal Road to restore the failed sections and bring an end to the suffering of motorists and other road users.

This is because, the situation on the concessioned Benin-Asaba Road has reached a point where the overall public interest must take precedence over the existing concession agreement.

Recall that the Honourable Minister of Works was on the Benin-Asaba Road about seven days ago, where he assembled a number of contractors and directed them to prepare for immediate palliative intervention on the affected sections of the road at no cost to the concessionaire. In line with the Concession agreement which requires that before the Federal Government could intervene, the permission of the concessionaire must be required, and that permission was not granted to federal government.

The Minister subsequently proposed three options to the concessionaire, any one of which would have enabled the Federal Government to move in and address the worsening condition of the road. Unfortunately, none of the options was accepted by the concessionaire. Immediately after the Minister left Asaba, the already limited equipment deployed to the road by the concessionaire was further reduced to just one, worsening the situation and increasing the suffering of motorists and other road users.

While the Minister takes responsibility for the concerns and suffering of Nigerians using the road, it is important to state that the concessionaire has also not taken the suffering of Edo people and travelling public sufficiently into consideration by declining all the options put forward by the Federal Government. The concessionaire continues to rely on the terms of the concession agreement entered into by the previous administration, an agreement which weighs heavily against the Federal Government’s ability to intervene quickly in the interest of the public in a situation like this.

In view of this situation, the Honourable Minister of Works has directed the immediate deployment of major contractors within the corridor to all three sections of the Benin-Asaba Road to restore the failed sections and bring relief to the people, with the cost of the emergency intervention being borne by the Federal Government. The Honourable Minister has also directed immediate redesign of the entire route to be rebuilt with reinforced concrete pavement. The public should therefore take note that immediate action is underway to restore every failed section of the Benin-Asaba Road and subsequently rehabilitate the entire sections of the road using reinforced concrete pavement.

2. On the Benin-Sapele Road:
The Governors of Edo and Delta States, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), and the Federal Government are currently engaged in interventions on different sections of the road to restore the entire route. While some sections are receiving palliative attention, permanent works are also ongoing on other sections.

3. On Ifaki(Ekiti) - Kabba (Kogi) Road:
The Federal Government is engaging both the contractor; Gamji Nigeria Company Limited, and Dangote PLC on immediate emergency and permanent intervention on the most failed sections of the road, while efforts are being made to financially mobilise the company for more extensive permanent work to commence on the axis.

4. On the Sokoto-Zamfara-Katsina Road: This is an inherited project involving the dualisation of approximately 350 kilometres, which translates to about 700 kilometers. The project has since been redesigned and is currently ongoing and most sections are being reconstructed using reinforced concrete pavement. From the Sokoto axis towards Zamfara, over 50 kilometres of one carriageway have been fully completed with reinforced concrete pavement. From Zamfara to Katsina, some sections have been completed and palliative works have been ordered over the sections that have not been reconstructed. However, the pace of work slowed down due to the redesign and rephasing of the project. The contractors currently engaged on the road include CBC, SETRACO, Triacta and Mothercat. They are being remobilised to return to site and complete the outstanding works.

5. On the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Road: The Federal Government took over the Road project and has currently completed the 118-kilometer mostly on reinforced concrete pavement on lot 1. The Lot 2, which covers 164 kilometres, is over 60 percent completed on reinforced concrete pavement. The Federal Government has also introduced solar-powered light on the entire route of Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria - Kano to improve visibility during night travel and enhance the overall security situation on the route. The entire project is scheduled for completion by December 2026.

6. On Bauchi-Jigawa Road: Triacta Nigeria Limited has been mobilised to carry out the necessary interventions on some failed sections and work is currently ongoing in those failed sections.

7. On the Sagamu-Ore Road: 48 Kilometers of the 96-kilometre road have already been completed using reinforced concrete pavement. There is also a 24-kilometre section around Ore which was abandoned by the previous contractor. The Federal Government has directed its immediate restoration to ensure seamless travel. Solar lights are being installed in the entire 96kilometer of the road.

8. On Flooded Sections on Sagamu-Ore-Benin Road: The flooded sections on the same corridor between Sagamu-Ore-Benin Road, as well as other flooded sections in Ondo State, are being designed for emergency procurement and intervention.

9. On the East-West Road:
Some failed and critical sections, including defective sections of bridges along the East-West Road, are being marked out for emergency procurement and intervention.

10. On the Abuja-Lokoja Road:
Several contracts are ongoing along the route, while the three critical sections currently without contracts are being procured for emergency intervention.

11. On the Lokoja-Benin-Warri Road: The President has directed a complete redesign and procurement of the 400-kilometre dualised route covering the uncompleted sections, using reinforced concrete pavement, while palliative works will continue with the contractors currently on the road.

12. On Carter Bridge:
While the Federal Government continues to undertake weekly maintenance of the underwater elements of the bridge. The site has also been handed over to the contractor, CCECC, for the construction of a permanent new bridge, and work has commenced.

13. On the Third Mainland Bridge:
With regard to the defective underwater structural elements, the Federal Government is at the final stage of determining the appropriate intervention for the repair of the affected elements.

14. On the flooded section of the Lagos-Ibadan Road: Work has commenced on the affected section. There are also several flooded sections on federal roads across the six geopolitical zones, largely occasioned by excessive flooding and the effects of climate change. The Federal Government is identifying and marking these sections for immediate attention.

15. On the First and Second Niger Bridges:
Intervention work is ongoing on the approach roads to the Second Niger Bridge damaged by flood and the work is progressing very well. The First Niger Bridge has been closed to traffic to enable immediate repair works. Contractor has mobilized to site and comprehensive rehabilitation of the bridge has started. From Summit Junction to the First Niger Bridge, massive rehabilitation work is also ongoing using reinforced concrete pavement.

16. The Honourable Minister wishes to commend the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the massive work being undertaken on the nation’s roads since the administration assumed office in 2023.

17. It is important to state that when the present administration came into office, there was hardly any part of the country where one could travel for an hour without encountering significant challenges on the road network. The condition of the country’s roads and bridges was a major national infrastructure challenge.

18. Rather than shy away from the problem, the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu made the nation’s road network a priority. Virtually every part of the country became a priority, and the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Works, Regional Commissions, Parastatals and other MDA’s has continued to respond extensively to these challenges.

19. The Federal Government is currently working on over 80 percent of the inherited federal roads, an unprecedented level of intervention in the country’s road infrastructure.

20. We ask the public to understand the enormous challenges inherited on our roads and bridges and to take note not only of the problems being solved, but also of the permanent solutions being introduced.

21. A major part of this new approach is the use of reinforced concrete pavement, designed to significantly extend the lifespan of major roads. These roads are expected to last between 50 and 100 years. This means that roads being constructed under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration are being designed with future generations in mind, rather than simply providing temporary solutions to today’s problems. And this is a complete departure from the past, when roads often deteriorated only a few years after completion, resulting in a continuous cycle of reconstruction and expenditure.

22. We appreciate the concerns of Nigerians over the condition of some roads presently and the difficulties faced by motorists and commuters who cannot move easily from one point to another. Those concerns are legitimate, and the Federal Government is listening. But Nigerians should also recognise the enormous scale of the problems inherited and the amount of work currently being undertaken across the country.

23. It is simply impossible to resolve every road challenge accumulated over many years of neglect by the past administrations within three years. What is important is that the government is working, the government is responding, and the government is putting permanent solutions in place.

25. We appreciate members of the public who send situation reports on failed roads and other infrastructure challenges. These reports help the Ministry identify areas requiring urgent attention. However, we also appeal to members of the public to report when such problems have been addressed, just as they report when they occur.

24. We are aware of situations where photographs and reports of road challenges continue to circulate on social media even after the Federal Government has intervened and resolved the particular problem.
25. However, the Ministry will continue to respond as rapidly as possible to genuine reports and concerns from Nigerians.
26. It is also important to note that we have compiled a comprehensive record of all inherited, ongoing and intervention projects across the country which is available to the public. This is to ensure that Nigerians have access to information on the infrastructure projects being undertaken nationwide and can fully participate in and appreciate the infrastructure revolution of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

May

2025

WORKS MINISTER, SEN. UMAHI PARTNERS FORUM OF STATE APC CHAIRMEN ON ROAD PROJECT MONITORING AND FEEDBACK MECHANISM DESCRIBES AS UNPRECEDENTED RENEWED HOPE INTERVENTION ON ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT NATIONWIDE The Honourable Minister of Works, Sen. Engr. Nweze David Umahi CON has assured the Forum of State Chairmen of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Nigeria of a strategic collaboration in project monitoring and in fostering feedback mechanism in project delivery management. He made this assurance during a courtesy call by the forum held at the conference hall of the Federal Ministry of Works, Mabushi, Abuja, on 6th May 2025. Speaking during the event, the Honourable Minister gave a thrilling account of the achievements of the Renewed Hope administration of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR in the works sector across the six Geo-Political Zones, which he said had helped to accelerate economic recovery in line with the 8-point agenda of the Renewed Hope administration. He praised the progress made by Mr. President in taking Nigeria out of recession. "There are a lot of improvements in our economy. I've always said that Mr. President inherited an economy that was in oxygen; that was in shock, and then he came, and he put oxygen. Today, we have removed the oxygen. And the economy is promising. If you come and look at the fuel subsidy removal, you just ask yourself, if that was not done, where would this country have been? People darken counsel without knowledge. And when you criticize, can you give us an alternative? When people criticize fuel subsidy removal and we came at the time that the ugly effect of the Naira redesign brought a lot of hardship for the people. But with the floating of the Naira, Mr. President has been able to stabilize the economy. When we came on board, we saw the way the Naira and the dollar were. But today, we have a stable Naira. He maintained that the policy direction of Mr. President was aimed at stabilizing and strengthening the economy and making Nigeria to be self-sufficient and self-reliant in the world of economic uncertainties. "Just yesterday, Mr. President unveiled a policy on local content, and his address touched on this local content because jobs that our people are supposed to be doing, we can't give it to outsiders. The President has directed that local materials that could be locally sourced can not be imported. The food prices are coming down. I was very shocked for the first time in this celebration of the Muslim festival. Instead of food prices going up, the food prices came down. And it's something that we have to appreciate Mr. President. Commending the President on the huge intervention he has made on the road infrastructure, he said, "He is a man that understands that the road sector, the bridge sector, the infrastructural sector is the catalyst that grows the GDP of the nation of which every other sector will grow from." He particularly thanked the Forum of State APC Chairmen, the National Chairman and the National Working Committee of APC, as well as the Governors in Nigeria for their support to the progressive economic reforms of the Renewed Hope administration and their confidence in it efficacy, noting that road project delivery policy under Mr. President guarantees active citizenship participation and consensus building. He urged members of the forum to feel free to task contractors and project managers on quality and accountability. Earlier in his mission statement on behalf of the forum of State APC Chairmen, the spokesman in the event and Chairman of APC Cross River State, Alphonsus Ogar Eba Esq, JP thanked the President of Nigeria for his illuminating stewardship in the works sector which he said would speak for him at the time of his re-election in 2027. He praised the profound passion, the intellectual capacity and the professional sagacity and dexterity of the Honourable Minister of Works which has added great impetus to the transformation witnessed in the road sector of the economy. "Your Excellency, we are Chairmen and this visit is a solidarity visit to commend you for being the light that has brought proper illumination to the pitiful darkness that was found in the road infrastructure And so for us, we can only thank Mr. President, who discovered you even when you were in a comfort zone of being a Senator. He continued, "This is a visit of thanksgiving to the Honourable Minister and his very supportive Honourable Minister of State, and all the Directors that have been giving you this support. If we remain in our respective States, we'll write a long letter and send it to you. People will not know about it. We have come to seek partnership with you. We are ready in the field. We have done our political evangelism and are prepared for the election of Mr. President. The partnership we seek today is to say we want to become volunteers who will be helping to supervise your projects. We have always been trying to get to sites. When we are not satisfied with the contractors, we take immediate action. Your Excellency, we want to be the catalyst towards those actions." In his vote of thanks, the Honourable Minister of State for Works, Rt Hon. Muhammad Bello Goronyo, Esq described Senator Umahi as a patriotic professional with deep expertise in the road sector. He emphasised that Nigeria is fortunate to have a Minister so knowledgeable and committed to nation-building. He also thanked the APC Forum for their warm visit, encouraging party chairmen across the States to continue supporting the Renewed Hope Agenda. “Your presence here is not just a show of solidarity but a testament to our shared commitment to building a stronger infrastructure base for Nigeria. ...

May

2025

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT COMMENDS PROGRESS ON ABUJA-KADUNA ROAD, SECTION I, PHASE 1 The Honourable Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, Esq., expressed his satisfaction with the progress and quality of work on the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano Road (Zuba Section). He commended the contractor, Messrs Infiouest (Nig.) Limited for its professionalism and alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda. During an inspection tour, the Minister announced that approximately six (6) kilometres-three (3) kilometres on each side had already been completed using reinforced rigid concrete pavement. “The quality of work delivered so far reflects the President’s unwavering commitment to national development through robust infrastructure,” he stated. He praised the dedication of the workforce and the use of modern equipment, saying, “The commitment of the workers is commendable. I salute their resilience and their support for Mr. President's vision. “The Minister emphasized that once completed, the road will reduce travel time, improve safety, curb insecurity, enhance trade, and create employment opportunities. Regarding the quality of construction materials, the Minister remarked, “What we are seeing here is superb. The reinforced rigid pavement is expected to last 50 to 100 years superior to conventional asphalt.” Mr. Robert Turner, the Project Manager and Representative of the construction company reaffirmed its commitment to delivering a world-class project. “There are no shortcuts. We are giving our very best to achieve the project’s goals,” he stated. Turner highlighted that the team operates daily from 6:00 a.m. to as late as 9:00 p.m., constrained only by security concerns along the corridor. “We have a spirited and dedicated team. Despite challenges, we are fully focused on delivering this critical project within record time,” he added. Earlier in his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Works, Engr. Olufunsho O. Adebiyi, emphasised the strategic importance of adopting rigid pavement technology, especially given Nigeria’s soil composition, water table level, and high axle loads. “Rigid pavement is new to Nigeria, but it has become necessary due to the consistent failure of flexible pavements under our local conditions,” he explained. He cited previous challenges with bitumen and cement interactions that compromise flexible pavements, particularly in high-traffic corridors like the Apapa-Oworonshoki Expressway in Lagos state. “This new method, reinforced with Y20 steel bars at 200mm centres, is stronger than most bridge decks,” he noted. Adding that “It is a sustainable solution that will outlast many of us and withstand the test of time.” Engr. Adebiyi urged road users to be patient during the construction period, assuring them that the phased opening of completed sections will help minimize disruptions. “We understand the temporary discomfort, but in the end, this road will significantly improve lives and the economy.” The Zuba section of the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano road remains a critical link in Nigeria’s transport network, and the Federal Government has reaffirmed its determination to ensure its successful and timely delivery. ...

Apr

2025

REVVING UP PROGRESS: HISTORIC FLAG-OFF OF LAGOS–CALABAR COASTAL HIGHWAY IN CROSS RIVER STATE The Honourable Minister of Works, His Excellency, Senator David Umahi Nweze, CON, FNSE, FNATE, on behalf of the Federal Government has officially launched Sections 3A & 3B of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway in Cross River State on Monday, April 14th, 2025. The event which was held in Calabar, marks the beginning of a monumental infrastructure project aimed at connecting eight coastal states across Nigeria. In his speech, the Honourable Minister highlighted the project's groundbreaking nature, describing the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway as not just another road but a symbol of progress for Nigeria. Engr. Dr. Umahi reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to completing the highway on schedule, with the project set to boost trade, tourism, and economic growth in the affected regions. He also reiterated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's dedication to fulfilling his promises on infrastructure development. Senator Umahi praised Hitech Construction Ltd. for their outstanding work and for their partnership in delivering this significant project that will benefit not only Calabar but the entire nation. Governor Prince Bassey Otu, representing President Bola Tinubu, GCFR, spoke passionately about the historical importance of the project. He expressed deep gratitude to the federal government for initiating such a transformative project in an area long deprived of modern infrastructure. Governor Otu emphasized that the completion of the road would improve connectivity and open up significant economic opportunities for Cross River State, fostering long-term growth and development. Bello M. Goronyo, Esq. Honourable Minister of State for Works, who was also in attendance, spoke about the fulfillment of promises made during President Tinubu’s campaign, noting the critical infrastructure needs of underserved regions. He expressed gratitude for the continued support from local communities and emphasized the collaborative efforts between the federal and state governments in achieving national progress. Mr. Danny Aboud of Hitech Construction Ltd., the project contractor, assured attendees of the company’s commitment to delivering a high-quality road. He discussed the use of innovative concrete pavement technology that will ensure the durability and longevity of the highway. Aboud also emphasized the significance of engaging local Labour and businesses, contributing to regional socio-economic development and job creation. In his goodwill message, Engr. Pius Edet Ankpo, Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure in Cross River State, expressed sincere gratitude to the Federal Government for initiating the project. He praised President Bola Tinubu’s visionary leadership and acknowledged the historic nature of constructing a road through forested terrain. Ankpo also advocated for the reinitiation of other key federal road projects in the state, such as the Ikom–Odukpani Junction and Calabar–Itu road, which have faced delays. He urged the Federal Government to prioritize these projects to ensure ongoing development in Cross River State. Mr. Asuquo Ukpanyang, the Youth Liaison Officer for the state, conveyed the excitement and anticipation of local communities regarding the project. He emphasized that it would not only create jobs but also drive economic participation, improving residents' standards of living. Ukpanyang stressed the importance of involving local populations to ensure the project’s success. Prominent figures such as Prof. Eyo Etim Nyong, an Elder Statesman, and Senator Eteng Williams, representing Cross River Central, also delivered powerful goodwill messages. Both leaders expressed profound gratitude to the Federal Government and shared how the hopes of Cross Riverians are being renewed through this project. They pledged strong support for the initiative, recognizing its transformative potential for the region. Prof. Nyong commended the Federal Government’s commitment to lasting development in the South-South, while Senator Williams highlighted the project’s role in unlocking new trade and economic opportunities for Cross River State and neighboring regions. Additional goodwill messages were delivered by Former Senator Ita Giwa and Hon. Gift Johnbull, SSA to the President on Committee Engagement. Senator Giwa praised the federal government for spearheading the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, noting its potential to create new economic opportunities. Hon. Johnbull echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the broader importance of the project in line with President Tinubu’s ongoing commitment to nationwide infrastructure development. Engr. Olufunsho Adebiyi, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works, also addressed the audience. He expressed full confidence in the project’s success and reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to ensuring the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway is completed to the highest standards, benefiting not only Cross River State but the entire nation. His remarks reinforced the Ministry of Works’ dedication to providing the necessary oversight and support for the project’s successful execution. The launch of Sections 3A & 3B of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway signals a transformative infrastructure project that will greatly enhance the lives of Nigerians, particularly in the South-South region. With the combined efforts of the Federal Government, state authorities, contractors, and local communities, the successful completion of this critical initiative is assured. The project is set to be a key driver of Nigeria’s long-term economic growth, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s infrastructure development. ...

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Nov

2025

OTHER NEWS

Sep

2021

Road Blockade: FG Appeals to Truck Drivers for Understanding on Bida -Lambata Ongoing Work

The Federal Government has appealed for understanding of truck drivers on the ongoing construction work on Bida-Lambata road, saying that government is committed to deliver a quality work that will stand the test of time for the benefit of the users.

The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, Babangida Hussaini made this appeal over the weekend.

Hussaini was reacting to the blockade of a section of the Bida -Lambata and Suleja - Minna roads by some articulated trucks drivers in Niger State, protesting that government should expedite action to complete the ongoing construction to ease their difficulties in using the roads.

" I am appealing to the truck drivers for understanding of the efforts of the Federal government in fixing this road. This Bida-Lambata road is among the many other ongoing projects across the nation which the government prioritised to deliver," he said.

Hussaini also noted that the rehabilitation work has not reached the sections that collapsed but the Contractor has been directed to do palliative work on all such sections while the contruction progress as scheduled.

He however lamented that the contractor has been denied access to the road due to blockade by the tanker drivers.

The Permanent Secretary stated that the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari gives premium to providing road infrastructure across the country as a way of improving the social and economic well-being of the people.

He assured the truck drivers that the Federal Government through the Federal Controller of Works in Niger State is working round the clock with the contractors on site to ensure not only timely completion but to deliver a qualitative road that would stand the test of time.

SPEECHES

Nov

2019

DPRS Council of Works Remarks

Introductory Remarks by The Director Planning Research & Statistics, Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, Dr. Famous S. Eseduwo at the On-going 25th Meeting of The National Council on Works at Calabar on Monday, 25th November, 2019.

PROTOCOL

I am delighted, on behalf of the Organizing Committee, to welcome you to the 25th Meeting of the National Council on Works with the theme: “INFRASTRUCTURE AS THE PARHWAY FOR PROSPERITY”, holding here in Calabar, Cross River State from today, Monday 25th to Thursday 29th November, 2019.

2. I wish to express our profound gratitude to the Honourable Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, the Honourable Minister of State Engr. Abubakar D. Aliyu FNSE, the Permanent Secretary Mohammed Bukar, the Directors and entire staff of the Ministry for their support in organizing this meeting.

3. As you are aware, the Meeting of the National Council of Works is an annual event and the highest policy formulating organ of the Works sector where stakeholders in the Works sector deliberate on issues concerning the Sector.

4. It is important to highlight that the council meeting is signaled by a two day technical meeting of Directors and the Permanent Secretaries Meeting. Our responsibility is to create a solid and resourceful foundation by diligently reviewing the memoranda submitted and fine-turning the recommendations for presentation to Council through the Meeting of Permanent Secretaries.

5. I urge all Directors present to own up to the process and show the right attitude and commitment towards heralding a successful Council Meeting.

6. At this juncture, I will like to assure you that all necessary arrangements have been put in place by the Ministerial Organizing Committee (MOC) and the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) to ensure the success of this year’s Council Meeting. The secretariat is available for any possible assistance.

7. Once again, I welcome you to the 2-day brainstorming session preceding this year’s National Council Meeting on Works and also wish you all a fruitful deliberation.
Thank you.