NORTH-CENTRAL ROAD PROJECTS UNDER SPOTLIGHT AS WORKS MINISTER SUSTAINS ROUTINE INSPECTION OF PROJECTS The Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, CON, FNSE, FNATE, has expressed satisfaction with the quality and pace of work on the Reconstruction and Expansion of the 43.65-kilometre Mararaba–Keffi Road. He made the remarks while inspecting ongoing Federal Government road projects in the FCT and Nasarawa State. The contractor on the Mararaba–Keffi (Keffi Bound) Road project is China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) Ltd. During the inspection of projects within the corridor, the Minister also commended another contractor, Messrs JRB Construction Company, for the standard of work being delivered in the Full Emergency Rehabilitation of the Mararaba–Keffi (Abuja-Bound) Road. He expressed confidence that the project would be completed before the scheduled 1st March, 2028 deadline, with ancillary components, including the installation of solar-powered street lighting. “This is highly commendable. The quality of work is evident, and I encourage you to sustain this standard through to completion,” the Minister urged the Contractor. Engr. Umahi reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to ending the era of abandoned and substandard infrastructure projects that have impeded national development over time. He stressed the need for contractors to adhere strictly to approved specifications, contractual obligations, and the Ministry’s directives, while maintaining open communication with the Ministry on operational challenges. “If you encounter any difficulty, inform us immediately. The Federal Government remains committed to meeting its obligations, including timely payments. However, quality must never be compromised,” he asserted. The Minister further directed the contractor to prioritise the completion of all outstanding sections of the road before commencing additional asphalt works. He noted that several projects across the country had suffered setbacks due to unfinished stretches and emphasised that the Ministry’s priority is the delivery of durable, safe, and fully serviced infrastructure that will serve Nigerians for decades. The Minister also inspected the Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano Road, Section II, being handled by Messrs Infiouest International Ltd. He noted that completion of outstanding works is scheduled for 12th November, 2026. Also speaking during the tour of duty, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Sen. Allwell Onyesoh, and the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Works, Hon. Akin Alabi, alongside the Member representing Akwanga/Wamba/Nasarawa Eggon Federal Constituency, Hon. Jeremiah Sa’idu, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the renewed momentum in infrastructure development across the nation. They described the ongoing road projects as strategic investments capable of stimulating economic growth, improving connectivity, facilitating trade and commerce, and enhancing national integration. They pledged their continued support and oversight of the projects. Also speaking is the Federal Controller of Works, FCT, Engr.  Mohammed Usman highlighted the level of commitment demonstrated in the execution of the ongoing projects. He commended the Minister for his hands-on leadership and consistent supervision, as well as the contractors for maintaining quality standards and ensuring steady progress on the projects. The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement, North Central Zone, Dr. Abiodun Essiet, lauded President Tinubu’s commitment to improving the welfare of Nigerians through sustained investments in critical infrastructure, agricultural empowerment programmes, and other people-centred initiatives designed to promote economic prosperity and ease of movement. In his briefing, the Managing Director of JRB Construction Company, Mr. Jamilu Ogunbola, disclosed that the company’s participation in the Abuja–Keffi Road project demonstrates the growing capacity of indigenous construction firms to successfully execute complex infrastructure projects, in line with global standards and best practices. The inspection tour further highlights the Federal Government’s resolve to ensure the timely completion and delivery of critical road projects across the country in tandem with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu. The Ministry remains committed to sustaining the current pace of infrastructure development as a catalyst for transformation, national cohesion, and improved quality of life for all Nigerians. ...

DON’T POLITICIZE SECURITY, IT WILL BE DEFEATED UNDER PRESIDENT TINUBU, SAYS UMAHI AS FG FLAGS OFF GOMBE–BIU DUALIZATION The Federal Government on Thursday, June 4, 2026 officially flagged off the Gombe–Biu Super Highway, a major component of the Akwanga–Jos–Bauchi–Gombe–Biu–Maiduguri Dualization Project, with the Minister of Works, Senator Engr. David Umahi, CON, expressing confidence that Nigeria's security challenges will be overcome under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Speaking at the ceremony in Gombe State, Umahi described the project as another demonstration of President Tinubu's commitment to infrastructure development and national unity, while commending Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya for the transformation of the state. "I’m very proud to boldly say that Gombe is an APC state. I’m very proud to have you as the Governor of Gombe State. Very proud to have President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the President of Nigeria," Umahi said. "Just a few hours ago, you took us around, but what we saw, we are honestly very, very proud of what you have achieved in this state. We never knew that Gombe was this developed by you. We thank you, and we thank you because you’re a true Nigerian." Umahi disclosed that the Federal Government had expanded the scope of the Gombe-Biu section following requests from the state government and assured residents that construction activities would begin almost immediately. "We promise you that within the next 30 days, you will see real work on this highway." According to him, the Gombe-Biu section forms part of the approximately 700-kilometre Fourth Legacy Project stretching from Akwanga through Jos, Bauchi, Gombe and Biu to Maiduguri. He explained that the section was awarded to construction giant HITECH after a rigorous procurement process. "There were five other companies that contested with HITECH, and HITECH won it." The Minister also addressed the nation's security challenges, expressing confidence that the Tinubu administration would overcome them through collective efforts and sustained government action. “Security should not be politicized. It should not be weaponized. Why is it that anytime we are trying to have an election, there is heightened insecurity? This is very concerning because anybody who takes the life of others under any guise, God is watching, and God is going to pay back. “If anybody has a hand in the insecurity because the person wants power, God will resist such a person. "So we stand with the President, we pray for him, and we work with him. This phase will also pass, and we will win our election by God’s special grace." He noted that President Tinubu had demonstrated leadership in stabilizing key sectors of the economy and would also succeed in restoring lasting peace across the country. "The boat is already on sail. It is on the high sea. We are experiencing turbulence, but the President has been able to stabilize the boat in so many directions." "The macroeconomy is stabilized, the naira is stable, and we are descending the gains of the reforms to the micro level. This insecurity will also be solved by this President, and then we will all be grateful to God Almighty." The Minister described President Tinubu as a leader committed to delivering projects that had remained unrealized for decades. "I was shocked when the Governor traced back the history of this project, how past governments attempted it, but it remained a dot in a circle." "But the man that God has sent to solve the impossibilities, and that’s why I’m confident that this security issue will be solved by him." He cited the Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway, the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Akwanga-Maiduguri Corridor as examples of long-conceived projects now being actualized under President Tinubu's administration. "The Sokoto-Badagry project was dreamt about fifty years ago by the Shagari administration. Who actualized it? President Bola Tinubu." "The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway was dreamt by himself about twenty-eight years ago. Who is actualizing it? President Bola Tinubu." "This one also goes back decades. Who is bringing it to fruition? The same President Bola Tinubu." Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, in his remarks, described the project as one of the most significant infrastructure investments in the history of Gombe State and expressed appreciation to President Tinubu and the Minister of Works for making it a reality. "The joy and excitement on the faces of our people speak for themselves. Across the state, people are celebrating because this project has come at a very important time in our history," the Governor said. He noted that the project aligns with the state's livestock and agricultural industrial zone initiative and would serve as a major catalyst for economic growth. "The livestock and agricultural zone will connect directly to the Super Highway, linking economic activities to critical infrastructure and opening up new opportunities for trade and investment." Governor Yahaya assured the Federal Government, contractors and stakeholders of the state's full support throughout the execution of the project. "On behalf of the Government and people of Gombe State, I assure you that the security of your personnel, equipment, and machinery is guaranteed throughout the duration of the project." Managing Director of HITECH Construction Company, Engr. Dany Abboud, assured stakeholders that the company would deliver the project according to the highest international standards. "We will execute this project to the highest international standards, as I have previously assured Your Excellencies. We will mobilize all necessary resources to ensure its successful delivery." He also pledged to create employment opportunities for host communities, particularly young people. "We are also committed to creating employment opportunities and empowering as many people as possible from the host communities, particularly the youth." Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Senator Allwell H. Onyesoh, commended President Tinubu's commitment to infrastructure development and called on Nigerians to support the administration. "We know we'll be coming here often considering the so many federal projects here. And I want to appeal to all of you to support Mr. President. He's doing very wonderfully for the nation." "Forget about induced insecurity that people are trying to bring to destabilize the country, but God will not allow it to work." Similarly, Chairman of the House Committee on Works, Hon. Akin Alabi, praised the partnership between the Executive and Legislature in delivering critical infrastructure projects across the country. He commended HITECH Construction Company for its quality of work, timely delivery of projects and positive relationship with host communities, describing the company as a strong partner in Nigeria's development. "As legislators, we oversee appropriations and project funding. From what we have seen on the ground, the company has delivered work that shows commitment and value." The traditional ruler of Yamaltu Emirate, The Mai Tangle and Chairman of the Gombe State Council of Chiefs, Dr. Danladi Sanusi Maiyamba III expressed appreciation to President Tinubu, the Federal Ministry of Works and all stakeholders involved in the project. He also pledged the full support of his people toward the successful execution of the highway. A significant portion of the road within Gombe State passes through the Yamaltu Emirate, and the monarch assured contractors of a peaceful and conducive environment throughout the construction period. Dignitaries at the flag-off ceremony included Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi, Senator Ede Dafinone; Senator Anthony Yaro; Vice Chairman of the House Committee on Works, Hon. Usman Banye; Hon. Ajilosoro; Hon. Inuwa Garba; Hon. Alex; SSA-President Community Development (North East); SSA to President Community Development (SouthEast), Barr. Chioma Nweze, traditional rulers; government officials; representatives of HITECH Construction Company; and other stakeholders from across the country. ...

FG, NIGERIA POLICE DEEPEN PARTNERSHIP AS MINISTER UMAHI, IGP DISU STRENGTHEN SECURITY COLLABORATION FOR SAFER HIGHWAYS, NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT The Honourable Minister of Works, Sen. Engr. David Umahi, CON, FNSE, FNATE has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for its impact on road infrastructure development across the six geopolitical zones of the country, while reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Nigeria Police to safeguard critical national infrastructure and improve security along major highways. Engr. Umahi made the remarks during a working visit by the Nigeria Police delegation led by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, PSC, NPM, to the Federal Ministry of Works Headquarters in Abuja, where discussions focused on improving security around major road projects, deepening inter-agency cooperation, and advancing national developmental objectives. The visit underscored the Force's commitment, under the leadership of the IGP, to strengthening strategic collaboration with the Ministry to protect critical infrastructure and ensure safer highways across the country. He asked for logistic support from the Ministry to reposition the Nigeria Police Highway Patrol Unit in the face of a recent nationwide surge in the theft and vandalism of vital road furniture. Speaking during the visit, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, commended the Honourable Minister of Works for the transformation taking place in Nigeria’s road sector. He described roads as vital links of national unity, economic growth, social interaction, and public safety. According to the IGP, roads not only connect communities but also create employment opportunities, stimulate commerce, and contribute to crime reduction by expanding economic activities for citizens. He stated that his visit was aimed at reinforcing collaboration and synergy between the Ministry and the Nigeria Police to ensure improved transportation safety and enhanced security across Federal roads. IGP Disu noted that some of the ongoing road projects have attracted national and international attention due to their economic, tourist, and sporting potentials, stressing that improved infrastructure would open up opportunities for tourism, commerce, sports, and other socioeconomic activities across the country. He also pledged the readiness of the Force to strengthen security presence along major highways and critical project corridors, nationwide, emphasising that effective security on our highways remains essential for sustainable national development and economic stability. Responding, the Honourable Minister expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police and the Nigeria Police for their continued support in securing ongoing and completed road projects, particularly in areas experiencing security challenges. He described the IGP as a dependable, disciplined, and professional officer, whose dedication to service continues to strengthen public confidence in the organisation. Engr. Umahi also welcomed the proactive security initiatives introduced under the IGP’s leadership, describing them as timely measures capable of enhancing peace, public safety, and national stability. He insisted that the success of the Federal Government’s ambitious road development agenda would not have been possible without the commitment and sacrifices of security agencies working tirelessly to protect project sites, personnel, and equipment, as well as installed furnishings such as solar panels, lights, batteries, and poles and reinforcements to road medians and CCTV systems. He also noted that many strategic road projects, particularly in insecurity-prone areas, would have been difficult to execute without the support and sacrifices of officers and men of the Nigeria Police and other security agencies. The Minister highlighted the ongoing four (4) Renewed Hope Legacy Road Projects and other strategic infrastructure developments being executed across the country, noting that no geopolitical zone has been left behind in the Federal Government’s development agenda, under President Tinubu. He further applauded the President’s determination to reposition Nigeria’s infrastructure landscape, explaining that government borrowings are being strategically directed toward economically viable and critical infrastructure projects capable of improving transportation, boosting commerce, and enhancing the quality of life of Nigerians. He explained that the current administration had adopted reinforced concrete pavement technology on several strategic road projects to ensure durability and long-term value, noting that many of the completed roads are designed to serve Nigerians for decades with minimal maintenance. He also disclosed that the Ministry had already begun integrating modern security features into major infrastructure projects, including surveillance systems, observation facilities, rest stations, and collaborative response mechanisms with security agencies along strategic highways. Engr. Umahi proposed the integration of a dedicated police security architecture into highway development plans, including designated security checkpoints, patrol bases, and operational centres to support intelligence gathering and emergency response along major road corridors and construction sites. In his address, the Honourable Minister of State for Works, Hon. Bello M. Goronyo, Esq., welcomed the IGP and his delegation and commended the Inspector-General for his leadership and untiring dedication to national security. He stressed the importance of security support for ongoing infrastructure development, especially with several strategic road projects currently underway across the country. He noted that improved collaboration between the Ministry and security agencies remains essential for protecting workers, equipment, and communities along project corridors. Goronyo further stated that President Tinubu has continued to provide the necessary budgetary support to enable the Ministry to execute numerous infrastructure projects nationwide, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to delivering quality roads and infrastructure capable of driving economic growth, connectivity, and national integration. In a Vote of Thanks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Rafiu Adeladan, appreciated the Inspector-General of Police and his team for the visit and commended the existing collaboration between the Ministry, the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), and other security agencies in protecting critical national infrastructure across the country. He noted that huge investments have been committed to road infrastructure development nationwide, echoing the need for sustained protection of these national assets to ensure their long-term value and impact on the lives of Nigerians. He expressed confidence that the working visit would further strengthen collaboration between the  Ministry and the Nigeria Police in safeguarding critical infrastructure projects. Mohammed A. Ahmed Director, Information and Public Relations 25 May, 2026. ...