Federal Ministry of Works

Jun

2026

LATEST PRESS

UMAHI SHOWCASES FEDERAL PROJECTS IN EBONYI, SAYS SOUTHEAST IS GRATEFUL TO TINUBU AS EBONYI SET TO DEMONSTRATE ITS APPRECIATION TO THE PRESIDENT ON MONDAY

The Honourable Minister of Works, Senator Engr. David Umahi, CON, on Saturday, June 13, 2026 led a Federal Government delegation headed by Presidential Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, on an inspection of ongoing federal road projects across Ebonyi State, using the occasion to highlight what he described as the unprecedented infrastructure transformation taking place under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Speaking during the inspection, Umahi showcased several strategic federal projects across the state and the Southeast, explaining that the region remains deeply grateful to President Tinubu for the tangible evidence of inclusion, fairness and development.

At the Calabar - Abuja project sites, the Minister explained the strategic importance of a major flyover under construction along the Trans-Sahara Super Highway corridor.

“Let me say that this is the point where the Trans-Sahara Route takes a bend. The essence of this flyover is to resolve the conflict at this point,” he said.

According to him, the Federal Government has already made provision in the 2026 budget to connect the corridor directly to the Ebonyi State capital.

“The road going to the capital city, which is 18km from this point, is included in the 2026 budget, and the Federal Government will undertake the connection to the city centre.”

Umahi stressed that despite funding challenges, work would continue uninterrupted across project sites.

“Of course, the contractor has not been paid, but we are creditworthy. All contractors being owed will be paid. There should be no stoppage of work because we want to see if we can commission this project by December. The cost is ₦25 billion.”

The Minister described the projects as only a glimpse of what President Tinubu is delivering in the Southeast.

“This is just the beginning. You will see remarkable projects of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the South-East. When we talk about the gains of the South-East under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, some people who do not understand what we are talking about will continue to criticize us.”

He declared that the people of the Southeast have taken notice of the President’s interventions and are prepared to openly express their appreciation.

“The people of the South-East are very appreciative of what the President is doing. By Monday, under the leadership of the Governor of Ebonyi State, we will demonstrate this appreciation when we adopt the President as our sole candidate and, of course, the Governor.”

Umahi was emphatic about the region’s political direction.

“Let it be known that Ebonyi State is not obedient because we want to catch up with the rest of the country, and we will never be obedient. What happened before was an accident of history. It will not repeat itself.”

The Minister also provided updates on the flagship Trans-Sahara Super Highway, revealing that a ₦668 billion contract has already been awarded and construction is progressing steadily despite the rainy season.

“The project is about 28% completed. We are not stopping because of the rains. Work continues, especially with President Bola Tinubu’s concrete road technology.”

Tracing the history of the corridor, Umahi said the project was originally conceived during the colonial era but remained unrealized for decades.

“We presented the concept to the President, a man divinely called to do the impossible. What was once a colonial dream is now being realized more than sixty years later.”

He described the highway as a critical economic route that will connect Nigeria to neighbouring countries while unlocking agricultural and industrial opportunities across the country.

“The President is fulfilling that vision, and I am very happy because this is a major trade corridor. It connects us to Cameroon and serves as a transport route for rice-producing areas in Cross River, Benue, and Ebonyi States.”

Highlighting the broader economic vision behind the President’s infrastructure agenda, Umahi said the four legacy projects of the Tinubu administration are far more than roads.

“As I have always said, the four legacy projects of Mr. President are not merely road construction projects; they are investments.”

Drawing comparisons with advanced economies, he explained that infrastructure investment remains one of the most effective tools for stimulating economic growth.

“Infrastructure investment is critical. In countries such as the United States, whenever there is an economic downturn, governments invest heavily in roads and bridges because such investments stimulate growth across other sectors of the economy. That is exactly what the President is doing.”

He further pointed to visible projects already completed or nearing completion across Ebonyi and neighbouring states, including major bridges, flyovers, dual carriageways and the Dangote Tax Credit Road Project.

“We are grateful to the President and pleased with the work being done by our Governor.”

Reaffirming the Southeast’s support for President Tinubu, Umahi said the region now sees clear evidence of inclusion in federal infrastructure investments.

“The South-East has been included. Inclusiveness, fairness and equity are what we have always sought, and today we can point to tangible evidence of that inclusion.”

The Minister also noted that having a Minister of Works from the Southeast has helped ensure the region’s needs receive the attention they deserve.

“Without a Minister of Works from the South-East, we might not have secured all that has been achieved.”

He added:

“We can proudly say that while we may not be the first beneficiaries of federal road investments, we are certainly no longer the last.”

Providing updates on President Tinubu’s four signature legacy projects, Umahi highlighted progress on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, the Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway, the Calabar-Ebonyi-Benue-Kogi-Nasarawa-Abuja Corridor and other strategic national routes.

According to him, the administration’s infrastructure programme is designed to create jobs, support agriculture, expand regional trade, attract industries and unlock new economic opportunities nationwide.

“The four legacy projects are investments designed to transform the Nigerian economy.”

He explained that plans along the corridors include dams, irrigation systems, power infrastructure, agricultural settlements, housing developments, factories, hotels and renewable energy facilities.

“The benefits are extensive and include both direct and indirect employment opportunities for Nigerians.”

The Minister ended with a strong endorsement of President Tinubu’s leadership.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, God brought you. God will continue to guide and preserve you. We stand with you for the years ahead.”

Addressing contractors handling federal projects in the state, Umahi reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to quality and durability.

“The moment you do not execute the work properly, it will be obvious. If you do it well, it will reward you. The method is the same, the principle is the same, and the quality is the same. We are using Grade 40 concrete.”

He revealed that the 51-kilometre Okposi-Ohaozara-Ukawu-Cross River road project, valued at ₦53 billion, is nearing completion, with one section already over 90 percent completed and another at about 60 percent completion.

The Minister further disclosed that the Federal Government has included the extension of the road to Akam in the 2026 budget, where the newly approved South-East Army Depot is located.

He added that additional contractors are already working along the Enugu axis and that a new flyover has also been planned at Okposi to improve traffic flow and enhance connectivity in the area.

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. ...

Jun

2025

STAKEHOLDERS UNITE TO INSPECT ABUJA–KADUNA AND SULEJA– MINNA DUAL CARRIAGEWAYS -Declare Minna Road, an Emergency Project The Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, CON, FNATE, FNSE; the Deputy Chief Whip of the 10th Senate, Sen. (Barr.) Onyekachi Nwaebonyi; the Honourable Minister of State for Works, Hon. Muhammad Bello Goronyo, Esq.; PDP Chieftain, Otunba Segun Showunmi, among others Saturday, 28th June 2025, led a high-level inspection of the ongoing reconstruction of the Abuja–Kaduna–Minna dual carriageway, reaffirming the government’s commitment to transparency, engineering excellence, and sustainable infrastructure development. In his remarks, Engr. Umahi disclosed that over 11 kilometres of Section 1 have already been reconstructed using 200 mm reinforced concrete with a projected lifespan of 100 years. The construction process, which involves pulverising failed pavement, laying an 80 mm cement-stabilised stone base, and installing Y20 steel reinforcements at 20 cm intervals beneath a 60 mm concrete top, matches the quality standards adopted for the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway and the Sokoto–Badagry Road. The Minister noted that the momentum gained on the Abuja–Kaduna project had gained added momentum followed by the inquisition which brought about this transparent site engagement. The Minister also expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his unwavering support following the termination of the previous contract with Julius Berger over cost discrepancies. “Without Mr. President’s support, it would have been difficult to redeem the project's integrity. But with the quality of work being delivered by Infoquest, today both the Ministry’s and my integrity are restored,” he said. Section 1 (118 km) is valued at ₦252 billion, while Section 2 (164 km), awarded at ₦525 billion, is progressing steadily across three subsections. In parallel with this progress, the Ministry addressed concerns over the Dualization of the Suleja–Minna Road (Phase 1) in Niger State, under Contract No. 6077 with Messrs Salini Nigeria Ltd. The project, covering 40 km from Diko Junction to Bonu village, includes 2 twin flyovers and 3 river bridges. Despite notable achievements—such as 36.89 km of sub-base, stone base, binder course, and wearing course already laid; construction of all 3 bridges up to transition slab level; and extensive culvert installations—the project has faced setbacks, including delayed payments and insecurity. As of the latest assessment, the project is 86.33% complete based on the original contract sum but stands at only 30.03% relative to the revised sum of ₦26.7 billion. The Honourable Minister has reaffirmed the Ministry’s position on accountability and directed that Salini be held responsible for any contractual lapses. Where necessary, portions of the outstanding works equal to the value owed by the contractor will be scoped out for direct execution under close supervision. Inspecting Sections I and II, Umahi decried the aged-long-neglect of the construction work by the contractor- Salini Nig. Ltd, which has left the site for the past 18 months without completing the contract. He also noted that the areas the Contractor claimed to have done have become dilapidated. He, however, called for the termination of the Messrs. Salini Nig. Ltd’s contract of sections I and II with immediate effect while declaring the project an emergency project to be handled under emergency procurement processes and taken over by CCECC and CGC companies. He also directed a-24 24-hour documentary on the road, especially the failed areas. “The project has been irrevocably terminated and Nigerians will see why we terminated it. If they (Salini) do not do what we have directed them to do, what they owe us under our supervision, we are all going to the EFCC to take it over” “We are documenting the current condition of the road for public accountability. Once work is completed, people tend to forget how bad it was. Information Department must keep a visual record to justify our emergency action”. Reiterating that the Suleja-Minna road is now a top priority, and every effort is being made to ensure timely and quality delivery in line with President Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, Engr. Umahi reassured travellers of their safety with the incorporation of safety and security infrastructure into the road design, including solar-powered lighting, CCTV surveillance, and a rapid-response system that guarantees intervention from security agencies within 10 minutes of any incident. Kilometre 71 and other active segments are already being secured during the construction phase. This is to ensure traveler safety and long-term durability. The Minister restated the Ministry’s openness to scrutiny and partnerships. “Where we have done well, let Nigerians see it. Where we must do better, tell us—and we will act.” Minister of State, Hon. Bello M. Goronyo, praised the cross-sectoral nature of the inspection, noting that it marked a shift from armchair criticism to informed civic engagement. He lauded Showunmi’s patriotism and willingness to scrutinize national progress with sincerity, stating that real transformation must be driven by both resource allocation and unwavering commitment. Also present at the inspection, Barr. Onyekachi Nwaebonyi, Deputy Chief Whip of the 10th Senate and member of the Committee of Works commended the scale and engineering quality of the project, affirming the Senate’s continued commitment to funding and legislative backing for infrastructure that enhances trade, national cohesion, and safety. Segun Showunmi, a well-known national voice on governance, whose concerns over delayed infrastructure projects prompted the engagement, applauded the Ministry’s openness. “I dropped everything to be here because our national integrity matters. This isn’t personal interests or affiliations; it’s about shared responsibility,” he remarked. While commending the quality of work, he maintained that his endorsement was based strictly on performance and would not be extended as a blanket approval to the broader administration. He further noted that public figures owe the nation constructive criticism and not endless cynicism, and that holding leadership accountable is of utmost importance as it helps in building the nation. “We’ve seen progress, and like Oliver Twist, we ask for more. Let this be the new standard—less noise, more delivery,” he concluded. ...

Jun

2025

EMPOWERING ENGINEERS THROUGH KNOWLEDGE-DRIVEN TRAINING TO DELIVER SAFER AND STRONGER ROADS The Federal Ministry of Works, under the strategic leadership of the Honourable Minister, Engr. David Umahi, CON, and the Honourable Minister of State, Hon. Bello M. Goronyo, Esq., organised a three-day zonal capacity-building training for engineers, technologists, and technicians in the North Central zone. As part of this initiative, the training commenced on Tuesday, 24th June 2025 at the Pavement Evaluation Unit, Sheda, Kwali Area Council, the FCT, where participants gathered for intensive knowledge-sharing and technical skill enhancement tailored to the evolving demands of modern infrastructure delivery. In his keynote address, the Permanent Secretary, Engr. Olufunsho Adebiyi, FNSE, emphasised that the programme, approved by the Honourable Minister, aims to address the widening generational and capacity gaps caused by the recent retirement of a significant number of senior engineers and the anticipated exit of more within the year. He noted that organising the training on a zonal basis ensures efficient resource management while encouraging broader participation across the federation. The training refreshes core competencies in highway and bridge design, project and contract management, and applicable quality assurance procedures, while promoting cross-functional exposure to develop versatile, all-around professionals. Highlighting the importance of dynamic field experience, the Permanent Secretary underscored the need to rotate engineers across different regions and departments, stating that long-term stay in a single location or unit limits professional growth and technical adaptability. Addressing the recruitment gap within the service, he explained that a comprehensive personnel audit had been conducted and submitted to the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation for further consideration. He also called on young professionals to invest in self-development and embrace competence as a prerequisite for employability in a modern public service environment, where performance now drives progression. Reaffirming the Ministry’s zero tolerance for misconduct, he noted that the civil service has well-established disciplinary frameworks across all cadres and that infractions will be met with appropriate sanctions through existing regulations. The technical sessions featured expert-led lectures, including “Effective Supervision of Federal Highway Projects” by Engr. Olufemi Oyekanmi, PhD, emphasised the urgency of addressing workforce overload and called for increased manpower to support the rising volume of national projects, while urging field engineers to uphold discipline and deliver consistently despite constraints. Engr. C. Shausu delivered a session on “ _Effective Communication Skills,”_ highlighting the critical role of communication in project coordination and interdepartmental collaboration. Additionally, “Ensuring Safety in Project Sites” was delivered by Engr. A.A. Adebiyi stressed the importance of enforcing safety protocols and maintaining high standards to protect lives and infrastructure. Speaking on the broader significance of the programme, the Director, Highways, Planning and Development, Engr. David Yiltong Dechi, described the training as a demonstration of the Ministry’s commitment to the professional development and technical performance of its workforce, urging participants to embrace their roles with renewed dedication and a stronger sense of national duty. From the participants’ perspective, the training was described as enriching and transformative, with attendees affirming that the sessions provided valuable insights into professional best practices and identified key areas for improvement to enhance effective project delivery. In his closing remarks, the Permanent Secretary reminded participants that the training was not merely academic, but a moral and professional awakening. He called on engineers to recommit to excellence, uphold ethical standards, and demonstrate the technical leadership the Ministry represents. “Let this engagement reset our priorities and rekindle our pride as engineers. We must rise above complacency- we must deliver,” he charged. This training forms part of a broader national initiative approved by the Honourable Minister to strengthen technical capacity, reinforce professionalism, and ensure that the Federal Ministry of Works remains at the forefront of sustainable infrastructure development across Nigeria. ...

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PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT

Nov

2025

OTHER NEWS

Mar

2022

FCE Guzau Joins Beneficiaries Of FG’s Ongoing Road Intervention Scheme

· As Fashola commissions, hands over 1.5 km rehabilitated road to the all-female institution

The Federal College of Education (Technical) Guzau, Zamfara State, Tuesday, March 8, 2022, joined other beneficiaries of the on-going Federal Government Road Intervention Scheme in Federal tertiary institutions across the country as the Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, SAN, commissioned and handed over a 1.50-kilometre internal road rehabilitated by the Ministry.

The road, which, according to some students and staff of the all-girls institution, was in a very dilapidated condition before the intervention by the Federal Government, constituted a very big challenge to both residents and day students, especially in terms of access to lecture halls and hostels as it is a major link between the halls of residence and lectures as well as administrative blocks.

In his address at the event which attracted top administrators of the institution and other dignitaries, including the Emir of Guzau, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Bello, among others, Fashola reiterated the commitment of the President Muhammad Buhari administration to extend infrastructure provision to tertiary institutions saying the purpose was to improve the education environment of the institutions.

The Minister, who was represented by the Federal Controller of Works in the State, Alhaji Hassan Muhammad Isa, said in addition to improving the quality of education in the institutions, the objective was also in line with the progressive ideal of the Buhari administration to improve human condition, adding that the scheme represented “a critical intervention to support education”.

The Minister told the esteemed audience which also included the Chairman Governing Council of the Institution, Architect Ubokutom Nyah, “It is undebatable that the quality of education will be impacted by the quality of infrastructure and the learning environment.” He added that those in doubt of the assertion should “Simply listen to feedbacks from students in the various institutions that have already benefited from the scheme.”

Pointing out that the Ministry is currently intervening in internal roads in 30 Federal Institutions across the country, Fashola said the Ministry had already successfully intervened in 45 such institutions, 29 of which had been handed over since 2021 while the handing over of another set of 17 completed ones, including the FCE (Technical) Guzau, has commenced.

“Today, we converge at the Federal College of Education (Technical), Guzau, to hand over an important asset, 1.50-kilometre rehabilitated road by the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing on behalf of the Federal Government”, the Minister said, adding that while a lot of work still needed to be done in all sectors of the nation’s economy, including education, the Buhari government has stepped up to lead the process of getting that work done.

He declared with delight,” The gap of our infrastructure need is steadily being bridged by a gradual process of repairs, renewals and constructions on our major highways and it has now reached the schools,” pointing out that the interventions have enhanced the enthusiasm of students with regards to attending classes as some defective roads in the institutions had been restored to good condition.

Pointing out that although the interventions come as civil Works project, they represent an investment in education as well as means of job creation. The Minister added that during the construction of the road, 31 people were employed in the process “contributing to the job creation initiative of the government”, expressing the hope that the benefiting schools would take ownership of the assets and protect them from abuse.

In his address, the Deputy Governor of Zamfara State, Senator Hassan Muhammad Nashiha, commended, the Federal Government for the intervention in the institution describing it as unique in the history of governments in the country. He specially congratulated the Minister “for undertaking the project in a very special way”.

He also commended the Chairman Governing Council of the Institution, who, according to him, has brought so many projects to the institution during his tenure, including renovation of hostels and toilets as well as recreation centre. The Deputy Governor, however pleaded with the Federal Government to build a perimetre fence around the institution considering the state of insecurity in the state.

Also in his goodwill message, the Emir of Gusau, HRM Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Bello, thanked President Buhari and the Minister of Works and Housing for carrying out the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the road in the institution saying it had constituted a grave challenge to students. He also pleaded with the government to help put a perimetre fence around the school especially as it is an all-female institution.

As for the students, the event was an occasion to express their joy and gratitude to the Federal Government and particularly the Minister of Works and Housing whom they praised for his consistency and dedication in carrying out the project to conclusion.

From the President of the Institution’s Students’ Union Government (SUG, Comrade Mariam Salisu, who studies Home Science to Nwada Oluchi Alago, who studies Home Economics and Fatima Abubakar, a Second Year Primary Education student; through Salihu Hamisu of ICT Department and Promise Julius and her two friends, Yemisi and Justina, who both study Biology and Integrated Science as well as Fatima Mohammad, a physically challenged student in Special Education Department, the intervention was both “God-sent and timely.”

Also present at the occasion were the Secretary to the Government of Zamfara State, The Chief of Staff to the Governor and some top officials of the State Government, deans of faculties and Directors of Departments as well a the executive officers of the Students Union Government and the students body who came in their large numbers to show their gratitude to the Federal Government for the intervention.

SPEECHES

Nov

2021

ADDRESS DELIVERED BY THE HONOURABLE MINISTER OF WORKS AND HOUSING, BABATUNDE RAJI FASHOLA SAN AT THE 27TH MEETING OF THE NATIONAL COUNCIL ON WOKS

PROTOCOL

It is my pleasure to welcome you all to the fourth day of this memorable event of the 27th meeting of the National Council on Works (NCW) being held in Bauchi State.

2. Let me first express my profound gratitude to His Excellency, Senator Bala A. Muhammed CON, the Executive Governor and the entire people of Bauchi State for accepting to host the 27th meeting of the National Council on Works (NCW). This has demonstrated the mutual relationship and peaceful coexistence between the Federal and Bauchi State Government. The Bauchi State, "the Pearl of Tourism" is no doubt the treasure of the Nation considering its many beautiful tourist attraction canters across the State.

3. The theme of this year's Council meeting "Infrastructure Delivery, Maintenance Economy and National Prosperity" was carefully selected to alleviate the problems associated with lack of maintenance of infrastructure being provided by the Federal, State and Local Governments which results to huge money and retard the economy growth.

4. Nigeria like other developing Countries is seriously confronted with inadequate resources for establishment of infrastructure which are essential for National Economic Development. Since the Independence, a large chunk of the country's resources has been channelled to infrastructure constructions including roads infrastructure. However, maintenance culture which encompasses provision for adequate care of hard-earned infrastructure is needed to ensure sustainability of these roads’ infrastructure for national prosperity. Experts have posited that if any nation can imbibe the maintenance culture in every sector of the economy, it will reduce cost and ensure national economic growth. Therefore, provision of adequate road infrastructure with a maintenance backup will no doubt help the government in saving more money to achieve National Economic Prosperity.

5. The highly acquired capital infrastructure is not given adequate maintenance to enable it have a longer lifespan needed to support development efforts and thereby deteriorate to the point of starting afresh. Therefore, acquired infrastructure such as constructed road network, bridges, road signage should be properly managed and adequately maintained to ensure durability and enable them live up to their life span of 20 years of road construction.

6. In prioritizing Maintenance culture in the road network with the goal of improving its 195,500 km road network of which about 60,000 km are paved while 135,000 road networks are un-tarred, the Federal Government and the States need to collaborate together along with investments from International
Finance Institutions and Public Private Partnership intervention in order to achieve the desired goal in Infrastructure Delivery, Maintenance Economy and National Prosperity.

7. Therefore, the 27th Council is expected to provide policy frame work that will sustain concerted and consistent culture of maintenance on the infrastructure on ground and also build in maintenance policy in the future road projects to move the country to the next level.

8. Kindly bear in mind that your recommendations will bear far reaching importance in Nation building and it is my prayer that our Highways will become safer and more comfortable for all and the nation's economy will be revamped and sustained.

9. I urge you to contribute meaningfully to the deliberations here today which will not only enhance improvement in the road infrastructure but will also stimulate world standard maintenance culture in the Nigerian road system.

10. Once again, I wish to express my profound gratitude to the Executive Governor and the entire people of Bauchi State for providing necessary provisions to ensure the hitch free of this year's Council meeting.

11. Thank you all and God bless