The Federal Ministry of Works continues to implement strategic infrastructure interventions across Nigeria, under the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. Since its inception in May, 2023, the administration has been implementing numerous federal road and bridge projects nationwide, focusing on priority corridors to improve connectivity, safety, and socio-economic outcomes. The North-East Zone National Media Tour and Commissioning of Emergency/Special Intervention Projects kicked off in Bauchi State on Sunday, 8th February, 2026, with a visit to the Rehabilitation of Bauchi–Gombe Road, a vital corridor linking Bauchi, Gombe, Adamawa, and Taraba States. The 35-kilometre section of the alignment was awarded in 2024 to Messrs Triacta (Nigeria) Limited at a contract sum of N39,999,177,118.59. The rehabilitation project aims to restore a major transport artery that has, in recent times, recorded frequent accidents and prolonged travel times. Ongoing works have already resulted in a noticeable reduction in road crashes, They are expected to significantly improve safety, reduce travel time, and cost of vehicle maintenance, as well as boost economic activities across the North-East Zone, upon completion. Also, as part of its ongoing efforts toward the provision of road infrastructure to Nigerians, the Federal Ministry of Works commissioned two completed emergency and special intervention projects on the same day, along the Bauchi–Darazo–Kari—Potiskum Road. The Federal Government’s recent road interventions in Bauchi State include the Emergency Repair of a Collapsed Concrete-Lined 3-Cell Pipe Culvert at Konkiyel Town (Chainage CH 120+500). The project was executed to permanently address perennial flooding, protect adjoining farmlands and communities, and safeguard the integrity of the federal road infrastructure. This was followed by the Emergency Repair of a Collapsed Section of a 2-Cell Pipe Culvert and Concrete-Lined Drain at Sauke Village (Chainage CH 162+000), restoring hydraulic capacity, mitigating flood risks, improving road safety, and ensuring uninterrupted movement of people, services, and goods. The Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. David Nweze Umahi, CON, FNSE, FNATE, who was ably represented by the Bauchi State Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Umar Saidu, led the commissioning ceremonies. He described the interventions as transformative, emphasising their role in bringing lasting relief to affected communities, preventing recurring flood damage, and enhancing the socio-economic well-being of the people of Bauchi State and the wider North-East Zone. He called for sustained collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the durability and effectiveness of both ongoing and Giving technical insight into the projects during the exercise, the Federal Controller of Works in Bauchi State, Engineer Bashiru Adamu, explained that the interventions form part of the 260 Emergency Projects initiated at the outset of the present administration to address critical infrastructure failures, nationwide. He noted that the Bauchi–Gombe road rehabilitation and the emergency drainage works along the Bauchi–Darazo–Kari—Potiskum Road were executed to mitigate flooding and protect federal assets. It will also help in mitigating the effects of climate change, he added. In his remarks, an official of the Bauchi State Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), Engineer Ibrahim Ahmed, commended the Federal Government for its prompt response to infrastructure challenges and expressed satisfaction with the engagement of licensed engineers and technologists on the projects, encouraging sustained professional oversight to further strengthen delivery standards. Similarly, the Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Bauchi Branch, Engineer Shehu Wakili, underscored the strategic importance of the Bauchi–Gombe and Bauchi–Potiskum corridors to regional connectivity and economic growth. He noted that the emergency culverts and drainage works protect the federal road network and support the smooth movement of goods and services, while urging host communities to complement government efforts through environmental protection measures such as the planting of trees. Speaking on the project, the Project Manager of Triacta (Nigeria) Limited, Mr. Joseph Samaha, expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for its support and assured that the Bauchi–Gombe Road rehabilitation is progressing according to schedule. He confirmed that works, including the construction of drainage, binder courses, and asphalt surfacing, are ongoing, with full completion expected within the year. Mallam Zakari Ya’ u, Head of Sauke Village, expressed profound gratitude to the current administration for the emergency intervention and prayed that Allah sustains it. Speaking on behalf of the host communities, Mallam Zakari Ya’ u stated that the projects have brought lasting relief by preventing annual flooding, protecting farmlands, and improving access for residents. He pledged the community’s commitment to protecting and maintaining the infrastructure to ensure its sustained benefits.
FG RESTORES CRITICAL ROAD LINKS, CURBS FLOODING IN BAUCHI COMMUNITIES
completed projects.
According to him, the culverts and concrete-lined drains are critical hydraulic structures that ensure roads, farmlands, and communities remain safe and accessible.
UMAHI, NIGER GOVERNOR STRENGTHEN COLLABORATION TO FAST-TRACK FEDERAL ROAD PROJECTS The Honourable Minister of Works, H.E. Sen. Engr. David Umahi, CON, FNSE, FNATE, has reiterated the Federal Government’s determination to accelerate the delivery of ongoing Federal road and bridge projects in Niger State, following a high-level meeting with the Governor of Niger State, His Excellency, Farmer Umaru Mohammed Bago. Speaking during the meeting held at the Ministry’s headquarters, Mabushi-Abuja today, 28 January, 2026, the Minister commended Governor Bago for his untiring efforts toward infrastructure development and urban renewal across Niger State. He noted, with appreciation, that many of the state government's interventions are on Federal road corridors that directly benefit the citizens. Engr. Umahi acknowledged the numerous challenges associated with Federal roads in the State, stressing that road infrastructure development is a shared responsibility, irrespective of jurisdiction. He praised the significant interventions in areas such as Bida, Minna, and Suleja, describing them as impactful urban renewal efforts that have enhanced mobility and boosted economic activities. The Minister assured the Governor of the Federal Government’s strong support, particularly on key projects including the Minna–Suleja Road (71km), which has received approval from the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) and is awaiting consideration by the Federal Executive Council (FEC). He disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has personally directed that the project be prioritised and assured that any advance intervention funds expended by the Niger State Government would be refunded. On the Jebba and Lambata Bridges, the Minister informed his August visitor that integrity tests and work on the expansion joints are ongoing. Engr. Umahi stressed the urgent need to curb indiscriminate parking, trading activities, and traffic congestion on bridges, which accelerate their structural deterioration. “Bridges are not designed to carry static loads but built for the dynamic flow of traffic,” he advised. He announced plans to engage key stakeholders, including transport unions and tanker drivers, to safeguard national assets and extend the lifespan of bridges. The Minister further disclosed that all ongoing NNPC-funded road projects, nationwide, have now been approved for takeover by the Ministry, in line with Mr. President’s directive. Funding templates are currently being finalised to ensure the seamless continuation of works on such projects. He also directed officials of the Ministry to provide comprehensive status reports on all Federal road projects in the state to enable prompt interventions, where required. Earlier, Governor Bago expressed appreciation to the Minister and his team for their responsiveness and collaborative approach. He highlighted the strategic importance of Niger State as Nigeria’s central corridor linking the North and South, with over 100,000 trucks traversing major routes in the State on a daily basis. The Governor raised concerns about severe traffic congestion, infrastructure degradation, and security challenges along critical corridors, such as Jebba–Lambata–Minna–Suleja. He called for urgent attention to the structural integrity of the Jebba Bridge and other heavily trafficked bridges, emphasising the need for structural testing, traffic control measures, and accelerated rehabilitation works to avert potential disasters. Governor Bago also commended the Federal Government for the ongoing concrete pavement works on the Abuja–Kaduna Expressway and urged that similar durable solutions be applied to other major highways in the country. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to sustained collaboration to fast-track federal road projects, enhance road safety, stimulate economic activities, and improve the quality of life for the people of Niger State and Nigerians at large. ...
FG Insists on Speed and Quality as Goronyo Inspects Sokoto–Gusau–Zaria Road Project The Federal Government has reaffirmed its determination to ensure the timely and high-quality delivery of the Sokoto–Gusau–Funtau–Zaria Road Project, warning that contractors who fail to meet agreed timelines and specifications risk sanctions. The Honourable Minister of State for Works, Rt. Hon. Bello Muhammad Goronyo, Esq., stated this on Sunday, 25th January, 2026, during an on-the-spot assessment of reconstruction works along key sections of the 750-kilometre highway spanning Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina and Kaduna States. Speaking during the inspection of sections from Dange to Shuni in Sokoto State, and onward through Talata Mafara, Maru and Bungudu in Zamfara State, the Minister stressed that the Federal Government would not tolerate undue delays on projects of critical national importance. According to him, the inspection exercise was conducted in line with the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to ensure strict compliance with approved standards, value for money, and early delivery of projects meant to ease transportation challenges and stimulate economic activities. “I am personally leading senior officials of the Ministry across these states to verify the quality of work being delivered and to ensure that contractors live up to their responsibilities,” Rt. Hon. Goronyo said. He added, “I am also representing the Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, GCON, to assess the level of work done and the degree of compliance with approved specifications.” While noting that some sections of the project recorded commendable progress, the Minister expressed concern over the overall pace of execution, stressing the need for contractors to accelerate work in order to reduce hardship faced by road users. He cited the Sokoto–Tureta–Mafara section, which has attained about 27 per cent completion, as relatively encouraging, but expressed dissatisfaction with the Mafara–Maru–Gusau section, where progress stands at approximately 16 per cent, describing it as unsatisfactory. The Minister warned that the Federal Government is prepared to restructure the project scope on underperforming sections, including restricting contractors to shorter distances and reassigning outstanding portions to more competent firms if noticeable improvement is not achieved. Rt. Hon. Goronyo explained that earlier challenges linked to compensation for affected properties had been resolved, crediting the intervention of Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State for facilitating payments and ensuring community cooperation. He also acknowledged the role of the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, in coordinating security support that has enhanced safety for workers and equipment along the corridor. Reiterating the Federal Government’s broader infrastructure strategy, the Minister noted that the adoption of concrete pavement technology under the Tinubu administration is aimed at delivering more durable, cost-effective, and long-lasting road infrastructure nationwide. He further highlighted the ongoing 1,068-kilometre Sokoto–Badagry Super Highway Project as a landmark initiative that revives the long-standing vision of former President Shehu Shagari, adding that it would significantly enhance connectivity, boost trade, and promote national integration. Rt. Hon. Goronyo commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for infrastructure development the priority it deserves, describing road infrastructure as a critical enabler of economic growth, national integration and shared prosperity. He noted that the President’s unwavering commitment to revitalising key transport corridors across the country is already yielding tangible results under the Renewed Hope Agenda. Goronyo also praised the Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, GCON, for his hard work, visionary leadership and dedication to delivering the mandate of the Ministry, adding that the ongoing reforms and adoption of durable construction standards reflect a clear focus on value, sustainability and long-term impact. “The Renewed Hope Agenda is about results. Nigerians deserve roads that last and projects that are completed on time, and this administration is committed to delivering just that,” the Minister stated. The inspection tour was accompanied by top management staff of the Ministry of Works, including Mr. U.B. Ekong, Director, Highways Construction and Rehabilitation, and Mr. C.A. Ogbuagu, Director, Highways Planning and Development. The Minister and his team also engaged with host communities, assuring residents that remaining compensation and project-related concerns would be addressed to ensure smooth and uninterrupted execution of the project. ...
FG RECORDS SIGNIFICANT PROGRESS ON KEY ROAD PROJECTS IN JIGAWA STATE In accordance with one of the eight items on the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Administration of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, which is the enhancement of infrastructure and transportation as enablers of growth, a Media Tour of ongoing projects in the North West Zone has been concluded with Jigawa State. The Tour also featured the Commissioning of Emergency/Special Intervention Projects in the State. The exercise showcases the Federal Government’s determination to deliver critical road infrastructure to Nigerians, with substantial progress recorded on several ongoing works and the pouring of encomiums by host communities across the states. Speaking in Gumel, the Federal Controller of Works (FCW), Jigawa State, Engr. Yusuf Mahmoud, disclosed that work is progressing on the Reconstruction of the Kwanar Danja–Tsalle–Hadejia Road. The project, being executed by Gerawa Global Engineering (Nigeria) Plc, is a 117-kilometre (Phase 1) reconstruction awarded in February 2022. The scope of work includes reconstruction of the existing carriageway, construction of lined drains, and installation of culverts to improve drainage, enhance road durability, and protect adjoining communities from flooding. Engr. Mahmoud explained that although the project was initially scheduled for completion in February 2025, delays were encountered due to challenges related to advance payment and budgetary provisions. He, however, noted that these issues have since been fully resolved, enabling the contractor to return to the site with renewed momentum. “It has attained about 75 per cent completion, with nearly 79 kilometres already reconstructed. Construction is ongoing simultaneously from the Gumel and Hadejia ends, with two teams (gangs) deployed to fast-track delivery,” he stated. The Project Manager of the company, Engr. Ibrahim Abubakar, confirmed that the company has mobilised extensive equipment, multiple asphalt plants, and deployed more personnel along the remaining alignments to accelerate completion. “With all challenges being surmounted, we are working with two construction gangs from both ends of the road. Our target is to complete the project before December 2026, ahead of the revised completion date of February 2027,” he confirmed. He further assured a cordial relationship with host communities, explaining that temporary work stoppages during peak rainy periods were unavoidable due to safety and technical considerations. The Chairman, Nigeria Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Gumel Branch, Salisu Muhammed, alongside another stakeholder, Mas’ud Usman, expressed satisfaction with the work, noting that travel time and cost of transportation, as well as vehicle maintenance have significantly reduced compared to the previous condition of the road. They commended the present administration for its commitment to road infrastructure development. The team also assessed progress on the Kunya–Kanya–Babura–Babban Mutum Road, a 47-kilometre rehabilitation project being executed by CRCC Construction Company (Nigeria) Limited. While briefing, the FCW, Engr. Mahmoud disclosed that the project has reached 82 per cent completion, with about 37 kilometres already rehabilitated. The remaining sections are expected to be completed within the year, following the resolution of earlier challenges. He noted that upon completion, the road will significantly boost cross-border trade due to its proximity to the Nigeria-Niger border, facilitate the movement of agricultural produce, and enhance regional connectivity. The Project Manager of the construction firm, Mr. Du For, highlighted the strong collaboration between Nigeria and China, assuring that the company remains committed to executing the project in tandem with approved specifications. Members of the benefiting communities on the corridor and road users thanked the Federal Government for hearing their complaints and for its inclusivity. Malam Audu Ibrahim stated that “The Government is trying and we really like the President because of the road. It has opened up business opportunities,” he added. In addition, the Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Jigawa State Council, Comrade Ismail Ibrahim, commissioned, on behalf of the Minister of Works, the Special Repairs of the Kano State Border–Dutse–Kiyawa–Bauchi State Border Road, an emergency intervention project approved under the 260 Emergency Road Projects. The project commenced in March, 2024 and was completed in December 2024, restoring the road from a severely deteriorated condition to a safe and motorable state. A community representative, Mustapha Isah, expressed appreciation for the quick response, while appealing for the provision of additional drainage infrastructure to address perennial flooding challenges. At the conclusion of the National Media Tour to the North-West, the Senior Special Adviser to the President (SSA-P) on Community Engagement, North-West, Hon. Abdullahi Tanko Yakasai, once again, commended the Federal Government for prioritizing road infrastructure in Jigawa State, describing the projects as critical to the state’s agrarian economy. He added that the projects align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and commended the Honourable Minister of Works, Sen. Engr. David Umahi, CON, FNSE, FNATE, the Minister of State, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, Esq., and all stakeholders for their sustained efforts to improve Nigeria’s road infrastructure. ...
FORMER MINISTER OF SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION, DR CHRISTOPHER OGBONNAYA ONU WAS A GREAT TRAILBLAZER AND SHINING LIGHT TO HIS PEOPLE. HE MARKED THRESHOLDS IN INTELLECTS, INTEGRITY, INDUSTRY, AND PASSION FOR EXCELLENCE
-SEN. UMAHI
BEING A TRIBUTE PRESENTED IN HONOUR OF HIS EXCELLENCY, LATE DR. CHRISTOPHER OGBONNAYA ONU, CON, BY THE HONOURABLE MINISTER OF WORKS, HIS EXCELLENCY, ENGR. SEN. NWEZE DAVID UMAHI, CON, DURING A TRIBUTE NIGHT HELD AT YAR’ADUA CENTRE, DATED 4TH NOVEMBER 2024.
I received the sad news of the passing of my dear brother, His Excellency, Dr. Christopher Ogbonnaya Onu, CON with profound shock and a deep sense of loss. His call to eternal glory on the 11th day of April 2024 at the age of 72 years was received with grief and deep sorrow.
Dr. Christopher Onu was a great trailblazer and a leadership light in Uburu Community and Ebonyi State, where I hail from. He was not just a mentor to me, he was a kinsman whose positive marks inspired great leadership motivations to his people. He was charming in character and charismatic in leadership. While alive, he marked a threshold in intellects, integrity, industry, and passion for excellence in all his endeavours; he was a great illustrious son of Uburu Community who made an immeasurable impact in nation-building and service to humanity.
Though he departed at the prime of his leadership and service to humanity, we shall forever cherish the values he bequeathed and the gains of the service he rendered as pioneer elected Governor of Abia State, former National Chairman of the All People’s Party (APP), first Presidential flagbearer of APP, former Honourable Minister of Science and technology and a host of other services he rendered to his community and the nation. Our consolation and fortitude are in the assurances that he lived the true purpose of life, which is service to God and humanity.
My deepest condolences go to his dear wife, children, the entire family of HRH, late Eze David Abba Onu, Eze Adu l of Uburu, and the government and people of Ebonyi State. May his soul rest in perfect peace, Amen.
As he makes his journey to immortality, I pray for God's eternal mercies upon him and divine fortitude and comfort to all of us who are impacted by this irreparable loss.
Thanks, and God bless you.
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 29TH 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:
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.
DRIVING NIGERIA’S FUTURE: CELEBRATING TWO YEARS OF TRANSFORMATIVE LEADERSHIP AND THE LAGOS-CALABAR COASTAL HIGHWAY MILESTONE
DRIVING NIGERIA’S FUTURE: CELEBRATING TWO YEARS OF TRANSFORMATIVE LEADERSHIP AND THE LAGOS-CALABAR COASTAL HIGHWAY MILESTONE
MID -TERM REVIEW MEETING ON THE IMPLIMENTATION OF THE DECISIONS REACHED AT THE 29TH NATIONAL COUNCIL ON WORKS (NCW) DAY 1
MID -TERM REVIEW MEETING ON THE IMPLIMENTATION OF THE DECISIONS REACHED AT THE 29TH NATIONAL COUNCIL ON WORKS (NCW) DAY 1