Federal Ministry of Works

Federal Ministry of Works (FMW)

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Minister Federal Ministry Of Works Engr. David Umahi.

Road Construction Inspection Tour.

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Road Construction Inspection Tour.

Road Inspection.

Road Construction Inspection Tour.

Apr

2025

LATEST PRESS

REVVING UP PROGRESS: HISTORIC FLAG-OFF OF LAGOS–CALABAR COASTAL HIGHWAY IN CROSS RIVER STATE

The Honourable Minister of Works, His Excellency, Senator David Umahi Nweze, CON, FNSE, FNATE, on behalf of the Federal Government has officially launched Sections 3A & 3B of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway in Cross River State on Monday, April 14th, 2025. The event which was held in Calabar, marks the beginning of a monumental infrastructure project aimed at connecting eight coastal states across Nigeria.

In his speech, the Honourable Minister highlighted the project's groundbreaking nature, describing the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway as not just another road but a symbol of progress for Nigeria.

Engr. Dr. Umahi reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to completing the highway on schedule, with the project set to boost trade, tourism, and economic growth in the affected regions. He also reiterated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's dedication to fulfilling his promises on infrastructure development.

Senator Umahi praised Hitech Construction Ltd. for their outstanding work and for their partnership in delivering this significant project that will benefit not only Calabar but the entire nation.

Governor Prince Bassey Otu, representing President Bola Tinubu, GCFR, spoke passionately about the historical importance of the project. He expressed deep gratitude to the federal government for initiating such a transformative project in an area long deprived of modern infrastructure. Governor Otu emphasized that the completion of the road would improve connectivity and open up significant economic opportunities for Cross River State, fostering long-term growth and development.

Bello M. Goronyo, Esq. Honourable Minister of State for Works, who was also in attendance, spoke about the fulfillment of promises made during President Tinubu’s campaign, noting the critical infrastructure needs of underserved regions. He expressed gratitude for the continued support from local communities and emphasized the collaborative efforts between the federal and state governments in achieving national progress.

Mr. Danny Aboud of Hitech Construction Ltd., the project contractor, assured attendees of the company’s commitment to delivering a high-quality road. He discussed the use of innovative concrete pavement technology that will ensure the durability and longevity of the highway. Aboud also emphasized the significance of engaging local Labour and businesses, contributing to regional socio-economic development and job creation.

In his goodwill message, Engr. Pius Edet Ankpo, Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure in Cross River State, expressed sincere gratitude to the Federal Government for initiating the project. He praised President Bola Tinubu’s visionary leadership and acknowledged the historic nature of constructing a road through forested terrain. Ankpo also advocated for the reinitiation of other key federal road projects in the state, such as the Ikom–Odukpani Junction and Calabar–Itu road, which have faced delays. He urged the Federal Government to prioritize these projects to ensure ongoing development in Cross River State.

Mr. Asuquo Ukpanyang, the Youth Liaison Officer for the state, conveyed the excitement and anticipation of local communities regarding the project. He emphasized that it would not only create jobs but also drive economic participation, improving residents' standards of living. Ukpanyang stressed the importance of involving local populations to ensure the project’s success.

Prominent figures such as Prof. Eyo Etim Nyong, an Elder Statesman, and Senator Eteng Williams, representing Cross River Central, also delivered powerful goodwill messages. Both leaders expressed profound gratitude to the Federal Government and shared how the hopes of Cross Riverians are being renewed through this project. They pledged strong support for the initiative, recognizing its transformative potential for the region. Prof. Nyong commended the Federal Government’s commitment to lasting development in the South-South, while Senator Williams highlighted the project’s role in unlocking new trade and economic opportunities for Cross River State and neighboring regions.

Additional goodwill messages were delivered by Former Senator Ita Giwa and Hon. Gift Johnbull, SSA to the President on Committee Engagement. Senator Giwa praised the federal government for spearheading the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, noting its potential to create new economic opportunities. Hon. Johnbull echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the broader importance of the project in line with President Tinubu’s ongoing commitment to nationwide infrastructure development.

Engr. Olufunsho Adebiyi, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works, also addressed the audience. He expressed full confidence in the project’s success and reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to ensuring the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway is completed to the highest standards, benefiting not only Cross River State but the entire nation. His remarks reinforced the Ministry of Works’ dedication to providing the necessary oversight and support for the project’s successful execution.

The launch of Sections 3A & 3B of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway signals a transformative infrastructure project that will greatly enhance the lives of Nigerians, particularly in the South-South region. With the combined efforts of the Federal Government, state authorities, contractors, and local communities, the successful completion of this critical initiative is assured. The project is set to be a key driver of Nigeria’s long-term economic growth, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s infrastructure development.

Jan

2024

WORKS, FINANCE MINISTERS UNDERTAKE INSPECTION OF ONGOING REHABILITATION OF THIRD MAINLAND BRIDGE The Honourable Minister of Works, Sen. Engr. Nweze David Umahi, CON, and his counterpart, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Chief Wale Edun have undertaken the inspection of the ongoing rehabilitation of the Third Mainland bridge in Lagos. While Inspecting the ongoing rehabilitation work this Tuesday, the Ministers took time to examine different aspects of the rehabilitation work, commending the contractor, Messrs CCECC for their good efforts so far. Sen. Umahi particularly gave good attention to the ongoing relaying of asphalt pavements of the bridge which commenced at the Owornshoki end of the 11.8kn bridge, noting the quality of work by the contractor, encouraging them to maintain the quality of work. On the installation of the solar based street lights and the CCTV cameras on the 3rd mainland, Engr Umahi described solar lights as very useful and will be strategic for road users. He however told the contractor to ensure the right quality materials are utilised to ensure value for money. In the inspection team of the two ministers were other senior government officials and the Contractor handling the project. It would be recalled that the Ministers of Works and Finance had early in January this year visited the ongoing construction of the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano road projects to assess the status of the project ...

Jan

2024

WORKS MINISTER DEBUNKS CLAIM OF FRAUDULENT PAYMENT OF FUNDS TO A MICTOFINANCE BANK, SAYS IT IS A DISTRACTION * To work with Governors to certify job completion before payment to contractors The Honourable Minister of Works Sen. Engr. Nweke David Umahi, CON, has debunked the claim that funds for construction of roads was fraudulently paid into a Microfinance Bank contrary to extant regulations. According to the Honourable Minister, “Let me also use the opportunity to debunk something that is ongoing in the social media. I don't know what they call the group, Is it Tracta Budgit or something which claims they're monitoring the budget of federal government; said that we paid 8.7 billion to the microfinance bank. Speaking to some journalists today in Rivers State during the inspection of the Enugu-Port Harcourt dual carriageway being reconstructed by Arab Contractors Ltd, Sen. Umahi disclosed that the organisation “went ahead and said, that the 8.7 billion were paid against a number of projects in Ekiti State, in Kaduna State, Kastina State and Borno State between June and September, 2023. The Honourable Minister while debunking further the erroneous claim by Tracka Budgit stated that as at June 2023, “he was in the Senate. So, if they are correct, it means the contracts would have been awarded while I was still a Governor, so not a minister.” Concerning the payments to a Microfinance bank, the Minister explained that as at July, “I was in the Senate Up to the 20th of August”. He, however explained concerning the payments to a Microfinance Bank that “when a contractor has done his or her work, the money becomes his money. He can say pay it to any bank of his choice." Sen. David Umahi described as very mischievous the claim by the organisation stating that they should have investigated “whether the job was done, that is the only right they have. But they don't have the right to say where a contractor will say his money will be paid. He submitted therefore that “whether it's paid in microfinance bank or macrofinance bank, what is paramount to establish if the funds were rightly paid for good work done.” The Honourable Minister averred that it was an attempt to distract his commitment to delivering on the Renewd Hope Agenda of President Tinubu for the road sector development in Nigeria. “And so, it's just a distraction. And then, some of the bank contractors are using them to fight back. But I refuse to be distracted, he restated. On his efforts to ensure quality delivery of road projects through partnership with the States, Sen. Umahi said “let me also say that in all the states, it's our policy that the state governors, through their appointed officials, must mark off any project, especially the emergency, palliative projects. According to him “when a contractor has completed a job, no matter how big it is, my advice is for the state governor to come to the site and look at it and then mark off the job before he gets to office for payment. He strongly affirmed that “Where this procedure is not done, I will not sign any generated certificate”. ...

Jan

2024

PRESIDENT TINUBU'S ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE REVOLUTION ON COURSE, DIRECTS RELEASE OF FUND TO TACKLE CRITICAL ROADS IN ALL THE GEO-POLITICAL ZONES OF THE FEDERATION The Hon. Minister of Works has reassured Nigerians that the Renewed Hope administration of the President of Nigeria, His Excellency President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, is on course in it's determination to rejig the road infrastructure which is a key catalyst for the actualization of the needed economic growth and development of our nation. The Hon Minister gave this indication in Markurdi, Benue State on 25th January 2024 during his inspection visit to the Keffi- Akwanga- Lafia-Makurdi road reconstruction project via Maraba, New karu, Asokoro, Ado, Goran road, the Lafia By-pass and the dualization of the Markurdi- Otukpo - 9th Mile Enugu road projects. He thanked the President of Nigeria for approving the release of funds for the commencement of work on the critical highways across the six goe-political zones, including the Abuja- Kaduna- Zaria - Kano highway, the Lagos- Ibadan expressway and the two by-pass roads at the 2nd Niger Bridge. ”So let me use this opportunity to also thank Mr. President. Just about three days ago, he approved that work should immediately commence in many sections; in Abuja,- Kaduna,-Zaria- Kano road. It's a very good and cheering news for me. We were having some problems with funding. But Mr. President has solved that problem and directed the immediate release of funds so that the projects will continue. The same thing is applicable to the Lagos Ibadan and the 2nd Niger Bridge two bypasses. Mr. President has directed the immediate release of money for the projects. As you see me, I am rejoicing like a newborn baby.” Speaking during the inspection visit to the Markurdi axis of the road, the Governor of Benue State, His Excellency, Fr. Hyacinth Alia called for support to the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.He described the President's national development plan as purposeful and progressive and with the propensity of promoting sustainable and stable national development. He praised the new spirit of dedication and quality service delivery in the Federal Ministry of Works and expressed hope that Nigeria would experience a new dawn in road infrastructure development under the Renewed Hope administration. ”We are quite pleased that you are beginning the second phase of Abuja- Keffi - Lafia 9th Mile Enugu road. I'm very excited to hear that you have already incorporated the prayers we presented to you" "We thank Mr. President for his thoughtfulness and good heart for the common masses. He's someone who doesn't like to see people suffer. He spends sleepless nights to ensure that we get it right at this administration. We remain quite indebted to him.” The Honourable Minister of Works undertook a driving distance of about 446 Km from Abuja to Enugu through the bad spots of Otukpo- Nsukka- Uboloafor Enugu road and that afforded him the opportunity to give policy direction to the Engineers and contractors on site on the new initiatives on scopping and construction and on the dimensions of Highway Development and Management Initiative (HDMI). He also identified areas within the major junctions of the road project that require flyovers, especially the axis after Abacha Barracks in Abuja and the Markurdi axis of the road project, where road users experience heavy traffic. ...

PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT

Jul

2024

OTHER NEWS

Jan

2022

FASHOLA CONDOLES WITH ADENIRAN OGUNSANYA FAMILY OVER DEATH OF FORMER SSG

The Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, SAN has condoled with the Adeniran Ogunsanya Family, the Government and people of Lagos State over the passage of the former Secretary to the State Government, Princess Adenrele Adeniran Ogunsanya.

Expressing deep shock and sadness over the death of Princess Adeniran Ogunsanya, who served as Secretary to the State Government from 2007 to 2011 during his first tenure as Governor of Lagos State, Fashola said that her passing was a huge loss not only to the historic town of Ikorodu and Lagos State but to the country in general.

In a Press Release signed by the Special Adviser on Communications to the Hon. Minister, Fashola noted that Princess Adenrele Adeniran-Ogunsanya’s single minded devotion to public service, politics of inclusion and women advocacy as well as her humaneness would be sorely missed by all.

A scion of the famous Adeniran-Ogunsanya family whose patriarch served meritoriously as Minister in the First Republic, Fashola said that Princess Adeniran-Ogunsanya brought her rich experience to bear while serving as the Secretary to the State Government in the Class of 2007-2011 in the Lagos State Cabinet which he had the privilege to lead.

While praying that Almighty God will grant the immediate family members of the deceased the fortitude to bear the sad loss, Fashola implored them to take solace in the fact that Princess Adeniran-Ogunsanya throughout her earthly sojourn bore aloft and admirably without stain the banner of committed public service for which the family had always been known. He also prayed that Almighty God grants her soul peaceful repose.

SPEECHES

Dec

2020

Keynote Address Of The Hon. Minister of Works And Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, San, At The 26th Meeting Of The National Council On Works With The Theme, “Road Infrastructure Development, Job Creation And National Economic Growth”

On behalf of the Federal Government, I convey the appreciation of the Ministry of Works and Housing to the Government of Rivers State and Governor Nyesom Wike, for Hosting this 2020 edition of National Council on Works.

The commitment to host this was made last year when the Cross River State hosted the 2019 edition and when nobody foresaw the outbreak of a devastating viral pandemic called COVID-19.

The impact of the disease on livelihoods and the global economy has led countries across the world into different stages of negative economic growth and recession.

The need to address the economic challenges has prompted countries and Governments to design and implement various measures and policies to keep their economies going and to reflate them.

The Muhammadu Buhari Administration developed and has started implementing an Economic Sustainability Plan, that incorporates and challenges Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to ramp up activities, inspite of COVID-19; in order to provide work, increase opportunities and sustain productivity.

The Ministry of Works and Housing, as a critical infrastructure provider of the Federal Government, is one of the focal MDAs assigned with responsibilities for sustaining and expanding the economy during and beyond the COVID period.

This in part explains the theme of this year’s Council which is, “Road Infrastructure Development, Job Creation and National Economic Growth”.

While the public looks forward mainly to the quality of the Highway pavement, the Government sees a larger economic impact of infrastructure and the way it helps to legitimately distribute wealth to the people at the bottom of the pyramid.

Road construction employs a large number of the urban poor, skilled and unskilled labour and vendors who depend on daily or weekly wages.

The lockdown period was a difficult period for them and it was not surprising that as soon as lockdown eased, the Agriculture Sector and Road Construction were the first to resume work.

Eleven (11) of the biggest contractors of the Federal Government were allowed to return to work in May 2020 in 26 states.

This was closely followed by the resumption of maintenance works in 92 different locations across 24 states by FERMA.

The Government then decided to increase the scope for local content, labour and materials by:

a) Advocating for the increased use of cement, stone and concrete which are all locally available

b) Advocating for the local production of Bitumen since we have large deposits of the raw material.

I am delighted to inform you that many of these policies are at different stages of implementation with consequences on the economy.

With safety guidelines for Social Distancing, face mask and sanitation issued to construction companies, construction work has resumed almost full time across the country even though the virus is still with us.

Although the Third Quarter GDP result is still negative at -3.62%, it shows growth in the following sectors:

a) Quarrying and other minerals production   41.81%
b) Cement manufacturing                               11.96%
c) Construction                                                  2.64%

With the sustenance of construction activities, a strong contribution will be seen on the road to economic recovery.

Regarding the need to use more cement, more stone and concrete, the Ministry had to produce a design manual for Rigid Pavement in consultation with all the stakeholders in the industry.

I am happy to Report that the Sub-Committee led by the Honourable Minister of State, Engr. Abubakar D. Aliyu, and the Director of Bridges and Design, Engr. Emmanuel Adeoye, have produced the first Rigid Pavement Manual for Nigerian Roads.

There could be no better place to unveil it than at the National Council for Works, where all State Governments and other stakeholders are present.

This should also form the basis for implementing the Government policy for more labour-intensive Road Construction to stimulate employment drive, and more use of locally available materials of stone, cement and concrete for improved economic productivity.

It is impossible to discuss roads and economic development without discussing:

a) capital appreciation of 30-40% that infrastructure provision adds to the value of land;

b) the supply chain of food, lubricants, construction materials like laterite, cement, Reinforcement (steel), Water, Energy (Diesel) that is positively affected by infrastructure;

c) the sub-specialities of subcontractors such as Lane Marking, Highway Signage and Electrical fittings,

all of which benefit from the Construction of a Road.

I am aware that all the States are executing one infrastructure project or the other and this is how it must be. I was in Rivers State recently to commission a Bridge project undertaken by the State Government.

Our collective National Spending on infrastructure will contribute in no small way to our recovery from recession, but also propel inclusive and beneficial growth.

Examples abound of the positive impact of the investment in infrastructure through a value chain of inclusive wealth distribution that is immediately activated when one of our construction sites utilises 5,000 trucks of laterites at N30,000 per truck.

Such a value chain would include the owner of the quarries, the operators in the quarries, the truck owners and truck drivers, among several others.

When one of our contractors also recently paid N500 million to his diesel suppliers, another inclusive wealth distribution value chain got activated or sustained.

In closing this speech permit me to highlight the challenges we still encounter in some states and communities with respect to claims for compensation, which hinder our contractors’ ability to work.

Challenges in the area of compensation require further collaboration and for States to play a lead role.

The need for an interactive forum between State Commissioners and Federal Ministry of Works, which will occur more frequently than the annual Council, as recently suggested by the Honourable Commissioner for Works from Kwara State will also hopefully be considered at this Meeting.

I thank you all for your attention.

PHOTO NEWS

Nov

2024

THE HONOURABLE MINISTER OF WORKS AND THE EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF NIGER STATE, H.E. MOHAMMED UMARU BAGO AT THE TOWN HALL MEETING AND STAKEHOLDERS ENGAGEMENT ON THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE 127-KILOMETRE, 3-LANE, SINGLE CARRIAGEWAY (NIGER STATE COMPONENT) OF THE 1,068-KILOMETRE SOKOTO - BADAGRY SUPERHIGHWAY IN MINNA, WEDNESDAY, 13TH NOVEMBER, 2024

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