BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja
R-L: Minister of Works, Engr. Nweze David Umahi and Minister of State Works, Bello Mohammad Goronyo Esq while briefing the media in Abuja on the progress of ongoing construction work in all the States.
President Bola Tinubu has directed the full implementation of the fourth Legacy Road Project, just as the contract will be awarded soon for speedy dualisation.
The fourth legacy road project, which is the dualisation of the Akwanga-Jos-Bauchi-Gombe road, will pass through the North Central, North West and North East zones.
Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi stated this in Abuja during an interactive session with newsmen on President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda for the road sector and various projects undertaken by the government to promote development and security, particularly in the Southeast zone.
Responding to the issues raised by Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe representing Abia South Senatorial District, the minister disclosed that President Tinubu is determined to ensure that the region is not left behind in national development.
He appreciated the Southeast Governors for their unwavering support to the President and his administration, especially Governor Alex Otti for the notable progress recorded in Abia State.
Highlighting achievements under the administration, the minister emphasised the significant strides made in nationwide infrastructure development.
He cited the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, transversing nine (9) littoral states, noting that a substantial part of Section I, Phase 1 is already opened to motorists, with positive feedback from the residents of Lagos and its environs. He stressed that the project is a long-term investment in Nigeria’s future, not merely a road.
Umahi addressed misconceptions surrounding the project’s procurement process, stating that there are three procurement methods clearly provided for in the Public Procurement Act (PPA).
He said: "I challenge anyone to investigate and compare the procurement processes adopted in Lagos and other States. Across the country, several road projects are ongoing, with many nearing completion. Design works are also in progress for most of the other sections of the legacy projects in all geopolitical zones. The Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, including its elevated and portal sections, is progressing steadily."
The minister was confident that these projects, when completed, will significantly improve mobility, stimulate socio-economic growth, and enhance the quality of life of Nigerians.
He expressed concern over the increasing rate of road infrastructure vandalism and encroachment by traders and motorists across the country.
"It is distressing to see that some parts of our roads in many states of the Federation have been taken over by traders and motorists. In Lagos, a bridge, which is a critical infrastructure, is used as a parking lot for trucks, which is not permissible. Similarly, the Abuja-Kano highway has been encroached by traders, who operate on one carriageway on a particular day of the week. This is unacceptable and poses a serious threat to the safety of road users," the minister stated.
Umahi drew the attention of journalists to the menace of iron rod scavengers, who are removing iron rods from the median of the roads while compromising their structural integrity.
"This is a serious safety risk, and we must collectively take action to prevent it. I urge citizens to take it upon themselves to protect our road infrastructure, which is a collective responsibility," he added.
To address the challenges, the minister announced that he will reach out to the Inspector General of Police for support to activate 'Operation Safe Highways', a multi-agency task force that was established to secure the nation's highways.
He acknowledged the support of the police during inspections, as well as the contributions of the Department of State Security (DSS) and the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA).
"The activation of a section of the Police known as Operation Safe Highway in all states will help to clear and secure our road infrastructure. I assure Nigerians that we will not relent in our efforts to ensure that our roads are safe and secure for all users," the minister assured.
Umahi appealed to citizens to report any case of road infrastructure vandalism or encroachment to the relevant authorities and to support the government's efforts to protect our roads.
He reassured Nigerians of the Federal Government’s untiring resolve to national development and security, adding that remarkable progress has been recorded in the road infrastructure sector and that the government will continue to work diligently to deliver quality infrastructure.
Reiterating the government’s stance on transparency, the minister maintained that accountability remains paramount, just as he invited the public for the unbiased scrutiny of all procurement processes by the ministry.
The Minister of State, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, Esq. urged Nigerians to visit the projects and appraise the quality of work delivered at the sites.
He indicated that the government’s improved road infrastructure, which includes solar-powered street lighting has made driving safer and more enjoyable.
Goronyo added that Nigerians are free to invite anti-corruption agencies such as the ICPC and EFCC to independently investigate the administration’s road infrastructure projects.
While responding to questions from journalists, he minister said that the contract for the construction of a flyover and bridges at Okoolowo and Shao in Kwara State will soon be awarded.
He promised that the projects will bring relief to commuters and residents of the area, who have been affected by the long absence of the critical infrastructure.
On the recurring traffic gridlock along Mararaba road, especially Mogadishu Cantonment spot, the minister explained that the said alignment falls under the jurisdiction of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).
He directed the Permanent Secretary in the ministry to contact the Permanent Secretary of FCTA for immediate remedial measures.
The interactive session was a testament to the ministry’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
Several journalists commended the minister for his dedication to improving road infrastructure across the country. They acknowledged the renewed efforts in addressing the challenges faced by Nigerians on a daily basis on the roads.
The Permanent Secretary, Mr. Rafiu Olarinre Adeladan emphasised the strong collaboration between the ministers, directors, and other staff of the ministry, noting that teamwork remains key to achieving the Federal Government’s developmental goals.
He appreciated the journalists for attending the interactive session and the minister for his sterling leadership.
The Federal ministry of works remains committed to delivering on its mandate to provide and maintain Nigeria's road infrastructure, just as the minister looked forward to continous engagement with stakeholders to ensure that road travels are safe, economical, timely, and seamless.
This was contained in a statement by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Mohammed Abdullahi Ahmed in Abuja.
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