Federal Ministry of Works

BREAKING NEWS

Jul

2025

Minister Inspects Damaged Flyover at Keffi, Directs Urgent Intervention

The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, CON, FNSE, FNATE, has inspected the damaged flyover at Keffi caused by an overburdened truck carrying an excavator. The impact of the collision completely dislodged one (1) of the beams and damaged two (2) others. The on-the-spot assessment was undertaken today, Sunday, July 20th, 2025.

The Minister, who was accompanied by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Mal. Mohammed A. Ahmed, the Deputy Director, Design and Bridges, Engr. Musa Seidu, Federal Controller of Works, FCT, Engr. Yakubu Usman and other officials disclosed that he had directed the Permanent Secretary, Engr. Olufunso Adebiyi, along with a team of engineers, to visit the damaged infrastructure on the day of the incident, Thursday, 17th July 2025. Following their preliminary inspection, which revealed visible cracks on the structure caused by the force of the impact, he ordered the immediate closure of the affected carriageway of the flyover to traffic to prevent further damage, as well as mitigate risk.

While one beam has fallen entirely and damaged the walkway and parapet, the other two beams, though damaged, have retained their structural integrity, according to the engineers. The underpass has been cleared, but the overpass remains closed as a precaution.

Engr. Umahi, appealed to Messrs CGC (Nigeria) Limited, the contractor currently working in the FCT, to urgently begin the redesign and molding of a replacement beam, while salvaging the other two (2) that were partially affected. The process is expected to take approximately thirty (30) days, after which a strength test will be conducted before reinstallation. He emphasised that the integrity of the structure will be fully restored before reopening it for vehicular traffic.

These emergency repairs, he revealed, will be handled through an intervention fund, pending the release of resources. He assured the general public that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR is fully aware of the unfortunate incident and has directed immediate remedial action to restore the facility, which serves a critical transport corridor. He also commiserated with the families that lost their loved ones, while wishing the wounded, quick recovery.

The Ministry will continue to work closely with the contractor and other relevant stakeholders to ensure a swift and safe reconstruction exercise.

Mohammed A. Ahmed,
Director, Press and Public Relations.
20th July 2025.

LATEST PRESS

Minister Inspects Damaged Flyover at Keffi, Directs Urgent Intervention

The Ministry will continue to work closely with the contractor and other relevant stakeholders to ensure a swift and safe reconstruction exercise.

Mohammed A. Ahmed,
Director, Press and Public Relations.
20th July 2025.

Jul

2025

FG MOVES TO PROTECT BRIDGE INFRASTRUCTURE, WARNS AGAINST OVERLOADING AND NON-COMPLIANCE WITH SAFETY STANDARDS The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s critical infrastructure. The Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, CON, FNSE, FNATE stated this today, July 17, 2025, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja, in response to recent damages to the structural integrity of key bridges and flyovers, nationwide. Engr. Umahi cited a recent structural incident at the Keffi Flyover, which prompted an immediate technical evaluation. The investigation revealed that the damage was caused by a container-laden trailer exceeding the permitted clearance height, highlighting a national disregard for vehicle height and load regulations. “When the height or weight of what you're transporting exceeds the permitted clearance, it directly compromises the structural integrity of bridges and flyovers,” the Minister stated. He further emphasized that “These infrastructures were never designed to accommodate such abuse. A single impact from an overloaded or improperly configured vehicle can lead to multi-billion-naira damage and threaten lives, as well as properties.” The Honourable Minister also noted that the minimum standard headroom for flyovers and interchanges ranges between 5.5 and 6.5 meters. Violating this engineering requirement not only breaches federal regulations but also significantly shortens the lifespan of essential transport infrastructure. Engr. Umahi reported that no fewer than seven bridges along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway have suffered structural compromises due to similar violations. He referenced the Eko Bridge, which was damaged by fire under the previous administration and is currently undergoing rehabilitation; it is now 80% complete, thanks to expedited funding approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. Addressing the state of the 3rd Mainland and Carter Bridges in Lagos, the Honourable Minister acknowledged the discomfort faced by commuters due to ongoing maintenance exercises as witnessed during a recent inspection and urged them to be patient, while complying with the approved standards. He reaffirmed that integrity tests are essential to ensuring the long-term safety of these structures and the millions of Nigerians who use them daily. “We appreciate the patience of Nigerians during this time. All findings from our assessments are being addressed with precision, and every repair and reinforcement is being executed according to international engineering standards. No shortcuts will be taken,” he assured. The Honourable Minister also announced that the Ministry, in collaboration with enforcement agencies, would launch a nationwide crackdown on non-compliant vehicles. This initiative includes strict enforcement of weight load regulations, clearance heights, and transport configurations across federal roads and bridges. The Permanent Secretary, Engr. Olufunsho O. Adebiyi, echoed the Minister’s sentiments, emphasising that bridge protection is a shared responsibility, not solely the government’s. “The bridges across Nigeria are a critical component of the nation’s economic and transport network. These structures are designed and constructed with load and height specifications. When motorists, especially operators of heavy-duty vehicles, ignore these, they place undue stress on our infrastructure, leading to premature and costly damage,” he stated. Engr. Adebiyi urged transport unions, construction firms, logistics companies, and motorists to comply with the federal regulations to preserve public assets and ensure road safety. “The government alone cannot monitor every kilometre of road or every single bridge. This must be a collective effort. We are open to collaboration, sensitisation, and enforcement because Nigerians must understand that protecting our roads is in our shared interest,” he affirmed. In conclusion, the Ministry also called on all stakeholders—transport unions, construction companies, logistics operators, and road users—to join hands with the government in ensuring that the nation’s infrastructure investments are not rendered futile by negligence and lawlessness. Mohammed A. Ahmed Director, Press and Public Relations 17th June, 2025 ...

Jul

2025

HONOURABLE MINISTER OF WORKS, SEN. UMAHI EXPRESSES CONDOLENCES ON THE PASSING OF FORMER PRESIDENT MUHAMMADU BUHARI, DESCRIBES HIS DEATH AS A GREAT LOSS TO THE NATION. The Honourable Minister of Works, His Excellency, Sen. Engr. Nweze David Umahi, CON, has expressed condolences on the passing of the immediate past President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR. He describes the late former President as a disciplined politician and a leader with profound integrity and sense of frugality who loved and served his country with unwavering dedication and who left positive footprints in his service to the nation as a Military Head of State and as a democratically elected President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The Honourable Minister sends his deep condolences to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the family of the late former President and the government and people of Katsina State, and prays God to grant his family and associates the strength of fortitude during this difficult time; may they find confort in the knowledge that we belong to God and to Him we shall return. ...

Jul

2025

HONOURABLE MINISTER OF STATE FOR WORKS, RT. HON. BELLO MUHAMMAD GORONYO, ESQ., HONOURED BY NBA SOKOTO BRANCH AT ANNUAL BAR DINNER AND AWARD NIGHT The Honourable Minister of State, Federal Ministry of Works, Rt. Hon. Bello Muhammad Goronyo, Esq., was recently honoured with the “Supportive Member Award” by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Sokoto Branch during its Annual Bar Dinner and Award Night. The award, which was presented by the National President of the NBA, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, recognises the Minister’s exceptional contributions to national development, unwavering commitment to the growth of infrastructure, and dedication to good governance and the rule of law. The “Supportive Member Award” specifically celebrates his long-time dedication, commitment, and outstanding efforts towards the growth and sustainability of the Caliphate Bar. In his acceptance remarks, Rt. Hon. Bello Muhammad Goronyo, Esq., expressed profound gratitude to the NBA Sokoto Branch and the national leadership for the recognition, describing it as a source of encouragement to redouble his efforts in the service of the nation. He commended the NBA for its steadfast role in defending justice, promoting the rule of law, and serving as a strong advocate for the people. The colourful event, which attracted members of the legal profession, government officials, and dignitaries from within and outside Sokoto State, also witnessed the recognition of other distinguished individuals including the National President of NBA and organisations for their outstanding contributions to society. The Honourable Minister reaffirmed the commitment of the Federal Ministry of Works to continue implementing critical infrastructural projects across the country aimed at boosting economic growth, enhancing connectivity, and improving the quality of life for all Nigerians. ...

PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT

Jul

2024

OTHER NEWS

Nov

2024

GORONYO MEETS MANAGEMENT AND BOARD OF FERMA
— Advocates Openness and Stakeholders’ Engagement

The Honourable Minister of State (HMS), Federal Ministry of Works, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, Esq has urged the Management of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) to give regular updates to the National Assembly and other Stakeholders, in order to bridge communication gaps. The HMS gave this charge at a meeting with the management of FERMA and Members of its Board led by the Managing Director/CEO, Engr. (Dr.) Chukwuemeka Agbasi, today, Wednesday, 6th November, 2024 in Abuja.

The meeting, which was the continuation of a prior one held in Kano on Monday, 4th November, 2024 is aimed at articulating a work plan with a clear roadmap for FERMA activities nationwide. It was also to address the fallout of the invitation by the National Assembly, where the need to upscale communication between the two was emphasised; the need to always bring Board Members up to speed with the activities of the Agency; grey areas observed in the non-implementation of the 2024 budget, as well as drawing a template for all on-going FERMA projects with a view to embarking on a visit to all the geo- political zones to access projects being undertaken by the Agency.

He appreciated the Management of FERMA and the Board for the visit, promising that more of such engagements will be held to bring the benefits of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, which seeks to enhance infrastructure and transportation as enablers of growth.

SPEECHES

Apr

2025

WELCOME REMARKS BY THE PERMANENT SECRETARY, ENGR. OLUFUNSO O. ADEBIYI FNSE, DURING THE MID-TERM REVIEW MEETING ON THE 29TH NATIONAL COUNCIL ON WORKS DECISIONS REACHED IN 29^TH NCW FOR THE PREPARATION OF 30TH EDITION OF THE COUNCIL MEETING

PROTOCOLS

It is with great pleasure that I welcome you all to this Mid-Term Review Meeting in preparation for the 30th National Council on Works (NCW). I extend my profound gratitude to the Honourable Minister of Works for approving this important gathering, which is a vital step towards ensuring the successful implementation of resolutions from our previous deliberations.

I would also like to express my appreciation to the Nasarawa State Government for the support and hospitality towards the hosting of the meeting in the State Capital. My gratitude equally extends to our distinguished stakeholders who have taken the time to be part of this crucial discourse.

RATIONALE FOR THE MID-TERM REVIEW MEETING

This Mid-Term Review Meeting serves as a statutory activity critical to tracking the progress made in implementing key resolutions from the 29th National Council on Works, which was held in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, from 15th to 18th July 2024. As we approach the 30th NCW, it is imperative that we take stock of our achievements, challenges, and the way forward.

The main objective of the maiden Mid-Term Review/ Preparatory meeting is to provide a veritable and suitable platform for critical Stakeholders in the road infrastructure Sector to have a robust national consideration on the dynamics and emerging issues concerning the sector, while the specific objectives for convening the meeting include to:

Assess the progress of newly deployed initiatives in the construction and maintenance of Nigerian road, especially the “Concrete pavement alternative”;
Examine access to alternative funding sources for argumentation of government scarce resources, especially leveraging on the Public Private Partnership models in construction and e-tolling of economic routes for maintenance of road infrastructure;
Evaluating the progress made so far in the implementation of key decisions reached during the 29^th edition of the NCW held at Abakaliki, Ebonyi State in July, 2024
Identity and benchmark constraints and challenges as well as do a SWOT analysis and make recommendations on the way forward; and
Make holistic recommendations and come up with a roadmap to guide Stakeholders in the preparation of a detailed Status of Implementation Report” for presentation at the 30^th Edition of NCW.

The discussions at this plenary session will set the tone for the deliberations of our six dedicated Desk Review Groups, which have been carefully structured to cover key technical and policy aspects of infrastructure development.

The Desk Review Group on Policy Formation and Implementation Decisions is expected to analyze policy frameworks and regulatory mechanisms guiding infrastructure projects, evaluating their effectiveness and proposing necessary adjustments to enhance policy coherence and sustainability.

The Desk Review Group on Institutional Strengthening Decisions will examine strategies for enhancing the capacity and efficiency of institutions responsible for infrastructure development, focusing on governance structures, inter-agency collaboration, and workforce competency.

The Desk Review Group on Alternative Technologies Decisions is tasked with exploring innovative construction methodologies and materials that offer cost-effective, durable, and sustainable solutions in road and infrastructure development.

The Desk Review Group on Technical and Operational Decisions will assess engineering standards, project execution models, and maintenance strategies, ensuring that technical best practices are integrated into the sector’s operational framework.

The Desk Review Group on Alternative Funding Mechanisms Decisions will evaluate existing and emerging financing models, identifying viable options for sustainable funding of infrastructure projects through public-private partnerships, concessional funding, and other financial instruments.

Finally, the Desk Review Group on Rule of Law and Good Governance will review compliance with legal and ethical standards in the sector, ensuring adherence to procurement laws, transparency, and accountability in project implementation.

As we embark on this review process, I urge all technical experts, policy advisers, and stakeholders present to engage in robust discussions, leveraging data-driven insights and global best practices to enrich our deliberations. The recommendations from this session will serve as the foundation for policy refinement, institutional reforms, and strategic decision-making at the forthcoming 30th NCW.

In this regard, we have invited three distinguished Resource Persons from the office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Central Delivery and coordinating Unit (CDCU), the Budget and National Economic Planning and the Head of Civil Service of the Federation to share their expertise and insights. Their contributions will undoubtedly enrich our discussions and provide strategic direction for achieving our collective goals.

I extend my profound gratitude to the Honourable Minister for his unwavering leadership and commitment to infrastructure transformation in Nigeria. Let us remain focused on our collective mission to build a resilient, innovative, and well-governed infrastructure ecosystem that will drive national development. I look forward to insightful contributions and practical resolutions that will enhance the effectiveness of the Works Sector.

CONCLUSION

As we engage in fruitful deliberations over the next few days, I encourage all participants to be proactive, open-minded, and solution-driven. The impact of our discussions here will go a long way in shaping the deliberations of the 30th NCW and, ultimately, the trajectory of infrastructure development in Nigeria.

Thank you, and I wish us all productive deliberations.