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.

Jul

2026

PRESIDENT TINUBU CONGRATULATES ENGINEER DAVID UMAHI ON HIS BIRTHDAY President Bola Tinubu heartily congratulates Engineer David Umahi, Minister of Works, on his birthday on July 25. Before he was appointed Minister of Works, Engineer Umahi served as the Senator representing Ebonyi South District. He was also a two-term Governor of Ebonyi State from May 2015 to May 2023, during which the state recorded landmark infrastructural development. Recognising the Minister's sustained efforts in delivering durable road infrastructure, President Tinubu commends Engineer Umahi for his passion, dedication to duty, and deep sense of patriotism. The President urges the Minister to accelerate road construction, rehabilitation, and delivery, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda’s objective of improving citizens’ quality of life and boosting economic activity. “Engineer Umahi has been one of my outstanding, hardworking ministers—passionate about the job and delivering durable roads and bridges that will last for about a century. “As a minister, he does not just sit in his office or rely on reports from subordinates; he is constantly on the road, personally monitoring construction work nationwide to ensure compliance with specifications and approvals,” President Tinubu notes. President Tinubu celebrates with the minister and his family and wishes him good health and renewed strength as he continues to serve the nation. ...

Jul

2026

PRESIDENT TINUBU REITERATES COMMITMENT TO QUALITY INFRASTRUCTURE DELIVERY AT THE 34TH COREN ENGINEERING ASSEMBLY President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has reaffirmed the Federal Government's unwavering commitment to strengthening engineering regulations, promoting quality infrastructure, and safeguarding public safety across Nigeria. Represented by the Honourable Minister of Works, *Engr. David Umahi, CON, FNSE, FNATE *, while declaring open the 34th COREN Engineering Assembly, the President described the Assembly’s theme, *"Advancing Public Safety in Nigeria through Strategic Engineering Regulatory Enforcement and a Tiered Sanctioning Regime,"* as timely and relevant to the nation’s developmental aspirations. The President stated that engineering remains the backbone of national development and that effective regulatory enforcement is essential for protecting lives, ensuring quality infrastructure, and restoring public confidence in the engineering profession. He stressed that regulations are not intended to punish professionals but to protect public interest, noting that *” no road, bridge, or building is more valuable than human life.”* President Tinubu assured participants that his administration remains fully committed to completing the four (4) Legacy Road Projects across the six geopolitical zones, under the Renewed Hope Agenda. He described them as strategic investments that will transform the nation’s economy, improve connectivity, and stimulate sustainable development. The Honourable Minister of Works commended the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) for choosing an apt theme that aligns with the Federal Government’s vision for quality infrastructure delivery and adherence to public safety. He noted that engineering is a profession where mistakes can cost human lives, emphasising that, unlike many other professions, there is often no opportunity for appeal after a structural failure. He, therefore, called for stronger regulations, strict enforcement, and effective sanctions against unqualified practitioners and professionals, who compromise ethics and standards. Engr. Umahi stressed that site engineers must discharge their responsibilities professionally and should never allow contractors to dictate engineering decisions. He urged Council to strengthen its disciplinary mechanisms, similar to other professional regulatory bodies, to ensure that only qualified engineers are allowed to practice. The Minister highlighted the achievements of President Tinubu’s administration, especially the ongoing Legacy Road Projects spread across all the geopolitical zones, designed to improve economic integration, enhance national security, create employment opportunities, and stimulate investment. He expressed confidence that with continued discipline, transparency, and adherence to engineering ethos, Nigeria’s infrastructure deficit would be significantly reduced within the coming years. Presenting the *Keynote Address* on behalf of the Honourable Minister, the *Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Works, Mr. Rafiu Adeladan,* stated that the Renewed Hope Agenda places infrastructure development at the centre of Nigeria’s economic transformation. He explained that the Ministry is implementing four major Legacy Projects across the geopolitical zones to connect communities, promote commerce, improve national integration, and encourage investment. The Permanent Secretary emphasised that quality assurance, competence, professionalism, and independence amongst stakeholders remain fundamental requirements for sustainable infrastructure development. He urged engineers to uphold ethical standards, comply strictly with engineering regulations and best practices, and strengthen resilience through adherence to due process The Chairman of the occasion, *Alhaji Aliko Dangote, GCON,* represented by *Prof. Hassan Umaru* described the Assembly as timely and significant, noting that engineering excellence remains the foundation of public trust, industrial competitiveness, and national development. He observed that every infrastructure project must be executed according to approved standards and maintained throughout its lifespan. Drawing from the experience of the *Dangote Refinery* project, he explained that rigorous engineering design, quality control, technical discipline, and strict compliance with standards were critical to its successful delivery. The Chairman called for sustained excellence within the engineering profession and urged COREN to continue strengthening regulatory frameworks, while enforcing disciplinary measures against erring practitioners, in order to safeguard lives and property. In his *Welcome Address,* the *President of COREN, Engr. Prof. Sadiq Zubair Abubakar, FNSE,* outlined the Council’s statutory responsibility of regulating engineering education and practice in Nigeria, in line with international standards and recommended practices. He explained that engineering graduates are expected to undergo mandatory industrial training before participating in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), describing practical exposure as critical to professional competence. Prof. Abubakar further disclosed that COREN has successfully introduced digital verification and enforcement systems to improve transparency, eliminate fraudulent practices, and strengthen regulatory compliance. He assured members that the Council would continue to uphold integrity, professionalism, and accountability, while addressing attempts by some practitioners to circumvent established standards. According to him, engineering regulation must remain transparent, sustainable, and effective in preventing infrastructure failures across the country. In his introductory remarks, *Prof. O. A. U. Uche* emphasised the importance of sustaining quality infrastructure development through continuous improvement in engineering practice. He described infrastructure development as a collective responsibility requiring collaboration among government, professional bodies, academia, industry, and private sector stakeholders. In this vein, he, therefore, called for stronger synergy in advancing engineering excellence and national development. The *Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Bosun Tijjani*, stated that science, technology, and engineering remain critical drivers of economic growth, innovation, and public safety. He pledged continued collaboration between the Ministry and engineering regulatory agencies. Representing the Nigeria Governors' Forum, the *Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang,* opined that engineering is one of the most respected professions globally and emphasised the need to create an enabling environment for engineers to thrive, while sustaining public safety and economic development. The *National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda*, commended COREN for its achievements in regulating engineering practice. He described engineers as the backbone of national development and praised the Federal Ministry of Works, under the leadership of Engr. David Umahi for the remarkable progress recorded on the four Legacy Road Projects and others across the six geopolitical zones. He congratulated the Ministry for its commitment to quality infrastructure and affirmed that Nigerian engineers continue to distinguish themselves through professionalism and excellence both nationally and internationally. The 34th Engineering Assembly reaffirms COREN’s commitment to strengthening engineering regulations, enforcement, and a tiered sanctioning regime to ensure public safety and sustainable infrastructure development in Nigeria. ...

Jul

2026

Works Ministry Celebrates A Chequered Career, As Director Ogbuagu Retires The Federal Ministry of Works, on Thursday, honoured the retirement of its Director of Highways, Construction and Rehabilitation, Engr. Clement Azubuike Ogbuagu, in recognition of his exceptional contributions to Nigeria's road sector development and his distinguished service to the Federal Civil Service. The colourful retirement ceremony, attended by the Honourable Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, Esq., the Permanent Secretary, Rafiu Adeladan, Directors and other staff, family members, friends, and well-wishers, was marked by glowing tributes celebrating Engr. Ogbuagu. He was described as a visionary leader, accomplished engineer, mentor, peacebuilder, and consummate professional, whose enduring legacy will continue to inspire generations of public servants. Speaking at the event, the Honourable Minister of State congratulated Engr. Ogbuagu, on the successful completion of an illustrious public service career, described his retirement as a celebration of excellence, dedication, integrity, and impactful leadership. He commended the retired Director for his unwavering commitment to national development and his invaluable contributions to the growth of Nigeria's road infrastructure, praying that his retirement would usher in many more years of good health and prosperity. In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary portrayed Engr. Ogbuagu as an exemplary Civil Servant, whose career reflects the highest standards of professionalism, discipline, humility, and integrity. According to him, the retiring Director navigated the challenges of public service with distinction, leaving behind an enviable legacy of excellence and selfless service. Mr. Adeladan urged serving officers to emulate Engr. Ogbuagu's dedication to duty, commitment to excellence, and professional conduct, stressing that true success in the Service lies not only in years of service but in retiring honourably with an unblemished record and lasting impact. Delivering his farewell remarks, Engr. Clement Azubuike Ogbuagu expressed profound gratitude to Almighty God for granting him a successful career spanning more than three decades in the Federal Civil Service. He also appreciated the Federal Government for the privilege of serving the nation and contributing to the development of critical road infrastructure nationwide. Reflecting on his years of service, he noted that working at the Federal level afforded him the unique opportunity to interact with people from every part of Nigeria, an experience he described as invaluable in promoting national unity, understanding, and mutual respect. The retired Director commended the Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. David Nweze Umahi, CON, FNSE, FNATE, for introducing innovative engineering solutions, particularly the adoption of continuously reinforced concrete pavement (CRCP) technology, which he said has significantly enhanced the durability, quality, and sustainability of Federal road projects nationwide. He also appealed to the Federal Government for adequate and timely funding for road projects, describing the sector as a critical catalyst for economic growth, national integration, and sustainable development. Addressing his colleagues, Engr. Ogbuagu encouraged them to remain committed to the ethics, values, and rules and regulations of the Federal Civil Service, urging them to discharge their responsibilities with diligence, honesty, and integrity so that they, too, could retire with honour and pride. He further commended the ongoing implementation of the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (FCSSIP), particularly its digital transformation initiatives, and called for sustained support to consolidate the reforms and further improve service delivery across government institutions. Earlier, in a goodwill message, the Director of Information and Public Relations, Mal. Mohammed A. Ahmed described Engr. Ogbuagu is one of the Ministry's finest professionals, whose career was defined by competence, integrity, humility, and unwavering dedication to public service. He noted that, beyond his engineering accomplishments, the retiring Director distinguished himself as an exceptional mentor who invested in the growth and development of younger engineers and officers through patient guidance, exemplary leadership, and an untiring commitment to excellence. According to him, Engr. Ogbuagu's remarkable contributions have left an enduring imprint on the Ministry, while his values of discipline, accountability, teamwork, and selfless service will continue to inspire present and future generations of public servants. He thanked the retired Director for his loyal, meritorious, and dedicated service to the Federal Ministry of Works and the Federal Republic of Nigeria, at large, praying that Almighty God would grant him good health, peace, joy, and fulfilment in retirement. The ceremony featured the presentation of gifts, numerous goodwill messages from colleagues and associates, as well as prayers for God's continued guidance and blessings upon Engr. Ogbuagu, as he embarks on a new chapter after an illustrious and impactful career in national service. ...

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PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT

Nov

2025

OTHER NEWS

Feb

2024

Meeting of Cement Manufacturers – Dangote Cement Plc, BUA Cement Plc, Larfarge Africa Plc & Cement Producers Association with the Honourable Minister of Industry, Trade & Investment, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite and the Honourable Minister of Works, Sen. Engr. Nweze David Umahi, CON held at the Office of the Honourable Minister of Works, Mabushi, Abuja on Monday, 19th February, 2024

1. The meeting noted the challenges of the manufacturers like:
   a.   Cost of gas;
   b.   High import duty on spare parts;
   c.   Bad road network;
   d.   High foreign exchange; and
   e.   Smuggling of cement to neighbouring nations.

2. The government noted the challenges and reacted as follows:
a. Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment to seek some remedies from Mr. President on cost of gas and import duties.

b. Federal Ministry of Works to give more attention to fixing of the roads, especially around the locations of the manufacturers.

c. On the issue of smuggling cement, the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment to deepen the already started engagement with the National Security Adviser on how to stop the smuggling.

3. The cement manufacturers and the Government noted that the current high price of cement is abnormal in some locations nationwide. Ideally, cement retail prices should not cost more than ₦7,000.00 to ₦8,000.00/ 50kg bag of cement. Therefore, the three cement manufacturers: Dangote Cement Plc, BUA Cement Plc and Larfarge Africa Plc have agreed that cement cost will not be more than between ₦7,000.00 and ₦8,000.00/50kg bag depending on the location.

4. Going forward, Government advised cement manufacturers to set up a price monitoring mechanism to ensure compliance, and manufacturers have willingly accepted to do so and to sanction any of her distributors or retailers found wanting.

5. Government expects the agreed price to drop after securing government's interventions on the challenges of the manufacturers on gas, import duty, smuggling, and better road network.

6. The meeting agreed to reconvene in 30 days to review progress made.

SPEECHES

Jul

2024

Welcome Remarks By The Director, Planing Research And Statistics At The 29th Edition Of National Council On Works Holding In Abakaliki, Ebonyi State From Monday 15th – Friday 19th July, 2024

PROTOCOL

I am delighted to welcome you on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Works to the 29th Meeting of National Council on Works with theme “Unlocking Infrastructural Potentials and Opportunities as a Catalyst for Sustainable Development under the Renewed Hope Agenda”.

The National Council on Works is a meeting of all the relevant stakeholders in the Works Sector to proffers new ideas and solutions to the challenges of moving the sector and the country forward. The theme of this year’s Council “Unlocking Infrastructural Potentials and Opportunities as a Catalyst for Sustainable Development under the Renewed Hope Agenda” is critical for our national development and well-being. Infrastructure is the backbone of any nation’s economy, providing the necessary support for economic activities and societal progress. Unlocking these potentials and opportunities is essential for sustainable development and the prosperity of our country.

As we gather here in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, we have the opportunity to explore innovative strategies and collaborative efforts that can enhance our infrastructure. Our discussions and deliberations over the next few days will focus on identifying key areas of improvement, leveraging technology, and ensuring that our infrastructural development is inclusive and sustainable. This council meeting provides a platform for sharing experiences, best practices, and developing actionable plans that will drive the Renewed Hope Agenda forward.

Proper infrastructure development is not just about building roads and bridges but also about ensuring that these structures are resilient and beneficial to all Nigerians. We must also ensure uniformity in infrastructural standards across the Federal, State and Local levels, fostering a cohesive approach to development. Our focus should be on creating infrastructure that can withstand future challenges, including climate change and urbanization pressures. It is crucial that we incorporate sustainable practices and innovative solutions to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of our infrastructure projects.

I urge all participants at this meeting to engage actively, share your valuable insights, and collaborate towards developing concrete solutions that will unlock the full potential of our infrastructural development. Let us work together to create a framework that supports sustainable development and improves the quality of life for all Nigerians.

Enjoy the moment and hospitality of Ebonyi State. I wish you a happy deliberation.
Thank you.