Federal Ministry of Works

Oct

2025

LATEST PRESS

TINUBU BUILDING ROADS THAT CAN LAST 50 TO 100 YEARS — Says UMAHI

The Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, CON, FNSE, FNATE, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to delivering durable road infrastructure capable of lasting between 50 and 100 years.

He made this statement during a follow-up inspection of ongoing works on the Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano Expressway, Section I (Abuja-Kaduna) on October 28, 2025.

Speaking to newsmen, Engr. Umahi explained that the Ministry is adopting modern construction methods and using materials that ensure road longevity and sustainability under varying climatic and traffic conditions.

“You cannot achieve a better California Bearing Ratio (CBR) by simply bringing laterite on the road. The existing subgrade, which has consolidated over years of traffic, has a stronger bearing capacity than a new one. That is why we are changing the approach — we are insisting on milling, stabilising, and strengthening, rather than removing old asphalt layers and replacing them with new materials,” the Minister stated.

He praised the contractor, Messrs Infiouest International Limited for the quality of work done so far, noting that the project’s design is among the most advanced in the country. He further explained the engineering method being applied to ensure lasting results.

“Wherever we have potholes within the carriageway, we don’t just patch. We treat the entire section using a stone base and, where necessary, stabilise it with cement. On the shoulders, we excavate about 10 centimeters below the existing asphalt, refill with a stone base slightly above the level, and compact properly. This ensures stability and prevents water from undermining the structure,” he revealed.

Engr. Umahi emphasised that proper milling and concrete reinforcement at critical points are key to extending the life span of Nigerian roads. “Our design now prioritises rigid pavement (concrete roads) for major highways, while flexible pavements (asphaltic roads) are being phased out gradually. Where asphalt is used, we are introducing concrete shoulders to enhance strength and prevent failure. The goal is to ensure that no section of the road fails prematurely,” he further explained.

The Minister also cautioned Engineers and Contractors against tampering with existing asphalt layers that are structurally stable. “Asphalt has a designed lifespan of about 25 years. When it is milled and recycled properly, it can serve even longer. We must adopt international best practices and stop unnecessary replacement of strong materials,” he advised.

Engr. Umahi concluded by reiterating the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring that all ongoing projects meet the highest quality standards and deliver value to Nigerians. “We are building roads that will stand the test of time — roads that will last 50 to 100 years, save public funds, and promote economic growth, he affirmed.

The Honourable Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammed Goronyo, Esq., has also reaffirmed that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, under the Renewed Hope Agenda, remains fully committed to improving the road infrastructure across the nation.

He commended the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, for his dedication and hands-on approach in the field, particularly in mentoring and inspiring young Engineers to contribute, meaningfully, to national development.

The Director of Highways, Special Projects (North), Engr. Olufemi Adetunji, also commended the pace and quality of work being executed by the Contractor, noting that the Minister’s consistent inspection visits are helping to ensure timely and high-standard project delivery.

In his remarks, the Chairman of Infiouest International Limited, Mr. Joseph Aboue Jaoude, stated that the company has deployed about 300 units of equipment to the project to ensure efficient operations and the delivery of quality work within schedule.

Similarly, the Special Assistants to the President (S.A.-P) on Community Engagement, North Central and North West Zones, Dr. Abiodun and Hon. Abdullahi Tanko Yakasai appreciated the efforts of the current administration in transforming the nation’s road network, describing the progress as a true reflection of the President’s commitment to development and quality service delivery to the Nigerians.

Dec

2024

CALL ERRING CONTRACTORS TO ORDER... GORONYO CHARGES FERMA. The Honourable Minister of State, Federal Ministry of Works, HMSW, Mohammed Bello Goronyo Esq, has charged the Managing Director/ CEO of Federal Emergency and Roads Maintenance Agency, (FERMA), to warn contractors who fail to deliver on their contract awards to desist. He said the era of abandoning projects is over. These contracts are awarded and paid through the tax payers money who desire value for their money. The list of defaulting Contractors must be made available to the Headquarters not later than next week. He also proposed the need for a strong Technical Committee that will criss-cross the country to monitor FERMA projects with a view to ascertaining the quality of their deliveries. The Honourable Minister made these remarks on Monday 2nd November, 2024, during his familiarisation tour of the South West section of FERMA, where the State Coordinators made presentations before the HMSW on the progress, challenges and expectations in the cause of the discharge of their duties. Goronyo commended the Federal Road Management Engineers, ( FRME), from the South-West States, assuring them that all issues raised will be looked into to make FERMA great and successful. He was quick to add that though the challenges are real, huge and enormous, they are not insurmountable. “The country must tighten up its belt and combat the challenges frontally. We have been drawing from a well without water for so long. We now have a President who is willing to face the challenges head on without complaining. We must be ready to support one another and do things differently. We must all support His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to deliver on his mandate.” He remarked. The HMSW pledged to pay unscheduled visits to contract sites to have a first hand knowledge of the commitment of contractors to projects, while also assuring that Staff Welfare is a paramount issue of concern which will not be toyed with. ...

Dec

2024

MINISTER COMMISSIONS SOLAR-POWERED STREETLIGHT PROJECT IN LAGOS The Honorable Minister of State for Works (HMSW), Muhammad Bello Goronyo, Esq, has commissioned a solar- powered streetlight project in Lagos on Monday, 2nd December, 2024. The streetlights being provided by the Federal Emergency Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), are a relief and a welcome development for the residents of the community of Isale- Eko in Lagos State. Goronyo identified the benefits of the project to include improvement in the socioeconomic well-being, as well as mitigating insecurity challenges confronting the area. “This aligns well with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR,” he added. The Minister further urged residents to take full ownership of the project with a view to safeguarding it from vandalization by unscrupulous elements. The HMSW, on an earlier Courtesy Visit to His Royal Majesty, the Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Babatunde Osuolale Akiolu, in his Iga Idugaran Palace, noted that the initiative is part of a conscious effort by the Federal Government at investing in renewable energy solutions, stating that “as a responsible Government, we have to continue to do more to improve the wellbeing of our teeming communities.” He solicited for prayers and support of His Royal Majesty and indeed Nigerians to be able to do more for the overall growth and development of the nation. Speaking at the Palace, the Managing Director/CEO of FERMA, Engr. Dr. Chukwuemeka Agbasi, thanked the Oba for the warm reception accorded the entourage, also stated that the installation of the solar powered lights will provide extended hours for trading and, therefore, arrest unemployment among the youth. While commending the community for providing an enabling atmosphere for the installation of the facility, Engr. Agbasi, cautioned against vandalisation, pledging that FERMA has resolved not shirk in its responsibility to ensure adequate maintenance, as well as deliver value in road maintenance in the community and the state. Responding, HRM Oba Akiolu, appreciated the Honourable Minister for the visit, noting that FERMA has been wonderful and cooperative in the discharge of its duties to the community. His Royal Majesty also used the occasion to warn miscreants and criminals to desist from vandalising public goods and infrastructure, assuring that Nigerians will laugh soon as the Government of the day is responsible and working very hard to put things right. Patience, the Monarch emphasised, is the keyword, while appealing to Nigerians to give peace a chance. ...

Nov

2024

Nigeria - China Partnership: Driving Growth and Development The Honourable Minister of State for Works (HMSW), Mohammed Bello Goronyo, Esq has applauded the partnership between Nigeria and China as a driver of growth in infrastructure, transportation, mining and knowledge transfer. Speaking at the CAETE Exhibition in Africa (Nigeria) and the 18th China Engineering and Technology Expo in Abuja on November 28, 2024, Goronyo emphasised the nations' shared commitment to sustainable development through strategic cooperation. The Minister highlighted Nigeria’s National Integrated Infrastructure Master Plan (NIIMP), which aims to increase infrastructure’s GDP contribution from 30-35% to 70% by 2043, prioritising investments in transportation, energy, healthcare and water systems. He noted China’s significant role in projects like the Abuja-Kaduna Railway, Lagos - Ibadan Expressway and renewable energy initiatives, which have boosted connectivity, commerce and local capacity. He also stressed the importance of green infrastructure, smart cities, and innovative financing mechanisms to ensure sustainability and urged for greater technical training and public-private partnerships. “I am delighted to share Nigeria's strides in redefining its infrastructure landscape through the National Integrated Infrastructure Master Plan (NIIMP). This long-term strategic framework prioritises investments across key sectors, including transportation, energy, water, irrigation and healthcare infrastructures,” the HMSW further emphasised. NIIMP will promote innovative financing models, public-private partnerships, as well as enhance collaboration with global partners like China to deliver on sustainable and inclusive infrastructure. Through this plan, it is hoped that Nigeria will build robust infrastructure, which will drive industrialisation, improve the quality of lives and position the nation as a hub for trade and investment in Africa. This is in tandem with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. In his Keynote Address, the Honourable Minister of Transportation, Sen. Abubakar Sa’id Alkali, commended the progress achieved in the rail, road and maritime sectors through a Nigeria-China collaboration. The Ambassador of China to Nigeria, Yu Dun Hai described the partnership as a model for South-South cooperation with transformative projects like the Abuja - Kaduna Railway, which showcase the potential of engineering and technology. The event reaffirmed the role of Partnerships in fostering economic growth, regional integration and sustainable development, which align with one of the Renewed Hope Agenda’s vision of enhancing infrastructure and transportation as enablers of growth. The Chairman of the Chinese Community in Nigeria, Mr Erie Ni emphasised that the event is of key importance and would deepen the relationship between the two countries, fostering immense innovation, growth and sustainable development. He stated that "over the years, China and Nigeria have been involved in a dynamic and mutually beneficial relationship as Chinese enterprises, engineers and investors have been privileged to contribute to Nigeria's development in various sectors including construction, telecommunications, energy and transport." The Director General and Global Liaison, the Nigeria – China Strategic Partnership Reached by the Two Countries, Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe reiterated the need for enhanced collaboration, cultural exchange and trade to cement a prosperous future for both nations ...

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PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT

Jul

2024

OTHER NEWS

Mar

2022

FG Hands 0ver 1.6 Kilometre Road To Bayero University Kano.

. To install transformers for the institution soon

. Plans to work on more internal roads in BUK

The Honourable Minister of Works and Housing Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola ,SAN, has handed over the 1.636 internal road in Bayero University Kano to the University authorities on Wednesday, March 23, 2022.

Represented by the Federal Controller of Works in Kano State, Engineer Yahaya Baba Ali, the Minister stated that the internal road construction and rehabilitation in tertiary institutions by the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing on behalf of the Federal Government was part of the steady effort by the Federal government under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari to bridge the gap in the Infrastructural needs in the country.

Fashola said "The gap of our Infrastructural need is steadily being bridged by the gradual process of repairs, renewal and reconstruction on major highways and it has reached the schools."

He further said, "We have successfully intervened in the internal roads network of 46 Tertiary Institutions and handed over 29 as at 2021 and we now have another 17 ready to be handed over while we are currently attending to 30 roads in similar institutions across the country making a total of 76".

The Minister revealed that efforts were being made for another intervention work on the internal roads of BUK that is three times bigger than the one that was being handed over to the University. This is in addition to the plan to construct a pedestrian bridge at the entrance gate of the institution to put a stop to the accidents that occur sometimes when people are trying to cross the road to the University.

In his address, the Vice Chancellor of the University , Professor Sagir Adamu Abbas who was visibly overjoyed expressed gratitude to the Federal government and the Ministry of Works and Housing for the intervention work adding that the road being handed over which leads to the solar plant of the institution was in a very bad shape before.

He said, " We are really very grateful to the Minister and the Federal Government and we are appreciative of another gesture of coming in to rehabilitate more roads for us so we extend our gratitude to the Minister and the Ministry."

The VC also disclosed that the University had received the award letter to the contractor that is coming to install transformers in the institution, adding that once that is done most of the problems of the school associated with power supply will be a thing of the past.

Mustapha Aminu, a Deputy Registrar in the University said in an interview, "Before the commencement of the project, this place was very hard to reach . Now with the completion of the road done by the Federal Government, it has linked the main road that leads to all parts of the University community. So it will make movement and other activities easier.I want to commend the effort of the Ministry for doing a great job."

The Acting Director Establishment in the institute, Binta Yahaya Naisa said, " The road was bushy, so bushy that sometimes people could not pass through. But now that the road has been constructed, it has opened up the place so much that you can see the next village from here."
" It is a very good development . It will improve our security and provide easy access from one place to another."

Nura Garba had this to say, "It is a road that leads to other parts like farms around and new hostels under construction." It was very difficult to pass through this place especially during the raining season, we had to park our cars far away."

" This work is a sigh of relief, you can see people moving around. It is so good to move around here now because the contractor has done a very good job so we thank the Federal Ministry of Works for doing this great job."

SPEECHES

Jun

2022

Welcome Address by The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, Bashir Nura Alkali, FCA, FCTI, Represented by the Federal Controller Jigawa State, Engr. Atewolora Oladele Gabriel at The Commissioning and Handover of The Hadeija-Nguru Road, Phase II (Kirikasama-Nguru) in Jigawa State on Saturday 18th June, 2022.

PROTOCOLS
       It is my great pleasure to welcome you all to this significant event in the affairs of our National life. I welcome all the eminent and distinguished invited guests to the occasion of the commissioning of the second phase of the completed roads across the country.
2.       On behalf of the Honourable Minister Babatunde Raji Fashola SAN, Directors and Head of Units, Federal Ministry of Works & Housing, I welcome all distinguished invited Guests, the Royal Fathers and the entire people of Jigawa State to this event.
3.       As part of President Muhammadu Buhari’s developmental agenda of addressing road infrastructural development across the length and breadth of Nigeria, the Federal Government as a policy direction focused on the completion of several on-going projects to stimulate economic development, job creation and promoting local content. The focus is to link the major arterial roads to Refineries, Ports, tertiary institutions and high volume commercial centres with a view to reducing travel times, vehicle maintenance costs, safety and security of commuters etc.

4.       The Ministry has successfully completed several roads and maintained several bridges to ensure that road users have a rewarding road travel experience. Several other roads and bridges are at various stages of completion such as the 2nd Niger Bridge and its approach road, Dualization of Abuja-Kaduna-Kano, Loko-Oweto Bridge linking Nasarawa to Benue States, Dualization of Enugu-Portharcourt Expressway, Bodo-Bonny Brigde, Lagos-Ibadan Dualization project, to mention just a few.
5.       We have now entered the season of completion and handover of several roads and bridges projects across the country. Recently, 5-roads were commissioned by Mr. President who was represented by the Cabinet Ministers from the states where the projects were sited such as:
i.   Commissioning of Sokoto-Tambuwal-Jega-Kotangora-Makere Road, Phases I&II in Kebbi State;
ii.   Vandeikya-Obudu Cattle Ranch Road Phases I&II in Benue State;
iii.   Nenwe-Oduma Road Sections I&II in Enugu and Ebonyi States;
iv.   Kano-Maiduguri Section III (Azare-Potiskum) in Bauchi/Yobe States; and
v.   Kano-Maiduguri Road Section II Shuwarin-Azare, with spur from Dutse to Kwanar Huguma in Jigawa/Bauchi States.
6.        In this phase of the commissioning, Mr. President approved the commissioning of the following roads:
i.   Rehabilitation of Efon Alaaye-Erinmo-Iwaraja Road In Ekiti/Osun States;

ii.   Isoko Ring Road in Delta State;
iii.   Rehabilitation of Hadeija-Nguru Road, Phase II CH 40+000-CH 73+150 Kirikasama-Nguru in Jigawa State;
iv.   Completion of Gombe-Numan-Yola Road Phase II (Gombe-Kaltungo) in Gombe State;
v.   Construction of Nguru-Gashua-Bayamari Road Section II, Phase I, (Gashua-Bayamari), Yobe State;
vi.   Rehabilitation of Nguru-Gashua-Bayamari Road Section I (Nguru-Gashua) Phase II in Yobe State;
vii.   Rehabilitation of Lafia-Obi-Awe-Tunga Road in Nasarawa State.
7.       As we complete the commissioning of this road here in Jigawa State, the train will move to Nasarawa State and on to the others.
8.        Our joy is that Nigerians are benefitting from the fruits of democracy and the promises made by the present Administration. These projects have created direct and indirect jobs as well as provided socio-economic benefits that the magnitude of such projects carries with it.
9.   At this juncture, I welcome you all once again to the commissioning ceremony of this laudable road project in Jigawa State.

Thank you and God bless you.