FG Flags Off Access Road to Second Niger Bridge (Phase 2A), Reinforces Commitment to Infrastructure Development The Federal Government through the Federal Ministry of Works has officially flagged off the Construction of a 17.55-Kilometre Access Road to the Second Niger Bridge (Phase 2A) in Asaba, linking the South South Zone to the South East. This milestone event underscores the administration’s unwavering dedication to enhancing national road infrastructure and fostering economic growth. Speaking at the ceremony, the Honourable Minister of Works Engr (Sen) David Umahi CON, FNSE, FNATE lauded the host State Government for its commitment to infrastructure development, emphasising that governance is about improving the lives of the people. He commended the Edo State Governor’s proactive approach to addressing road infrastructure needs, acknowledging the numerous ongoing projects, including three major flyovers in Warri town. "Your state is a construction site. You have demonstrated that leadership is about responsibility, not excuses. Instead of blaming the Federal government, you are taking proactive actions. That is highly commendable," he stated. Engr. Umahi further highlighted the Federal Government’s broader vision for road infrastructure, revealing that multiple strategic road projects are either ongoing or in the pipeline, nationwide. These include the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, the Benin-Asaba Expressway, the Sokoto-Gusau-Katsina-Kaduna corridor, the East-West Road, the remaining section of Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Dual Carriageway, amongst others. He assured that the 9-kilometre extension of the just-flagged off Reconstruction of the Benin-Asaba Expressway to the 2nd Niger Bridge requested by the State Government has been approved. To ensure the security and sustainability of the newly constructed roads and bridges, the Government has implemented advanced surveillance measures, including the installation of CCTV cameras along the Access Roads and the Bridge. These cameras will be linked to the offices of the Governors of the concerned States to monitor activities and prevent vandalism. Additionally, the project will incorporate solar-powered streetlights to enhance visibility and security. The Minister reiterated the administration’s commitment to prioritising inherited projects and delivering impactful infrastructure to Nigerians. He emphasized that under President Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, road projects nationwide are receiving unprecedented attention, ensuring seamless connectivity and economic progress. "All major road projects inherited by Mr. President are ongoing. He has given them priority attention. This administration believes in continuity and results, not political excuses," he stressed. The project, he continued, is part of a broader national infrastructure strategy aimed at connecting key economic zones and improving transportation efficiency. The government has assured that funding is secured, with 30% of the contract sum ready to be paid, while strict timelines and performance monitoring will be enforced to ensure timely delivery. The Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, while acknowledging the presence of dignitaries at the occasion, stated “It is an honor and privilege to stand before you today, representing His Excellency, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. This occasion is not just about flagging off a road project—it is a testament to this administration’s unwavering commitment to economic development, national integration, and infrastructure renewal. “The construction of the Access Road is a major step towards strengthening our nation’s connectivity. This road will ease movement, facilitate trade, and enhance economic opportunities for the people of Delta, Anambra, and beyond. It is yet another proof that under this administration, infrastructure development remains a top priority for fostering economic growth and national unity. I want to, especially, commend the government and people of Delta and Anambra States for their collaboration in ensuring the success of this project. Your support and cooperation are crucial in making this vision a reality. Infrastructure development is not just the responsibility of the Federal Government requires the collective effort of all stakeholders, including the State Governments, Local Communities, and Private Sector Partners,” says the President. The Governor added “To our esteemed contractors, I urge you to ensure the highest standards of quality and timely completion of this project. This is not just a road; it is a legacy of progress that will serve generations to come.” He extended his gratitude to all present-the traditional rulers, community leaders, and all who have contributed in one way or another to the realisation of the initiative. “Your support and dedication to the success of this project reflect our shared commitment to building a better, more connected Nigeria. As we look forward to its completion, let us all continue to work together for the development of our great nation,” Governor Oborevwori concluded. ...

Flag-off of the 125-KM Benin-Asaba Dual Carriageway: A Game Changer in Road Development The Federal Government has officially flagged off the reconstruction of the 125-kilometre Benin-Asaba Expressway, a vital road corridor in the southern part of the country. The event, which took place on Sunday, 21st March 2025, was performed on behalf of the President, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, by the Edo State Governor, His Excellency Sen. Monday Okpebholo. In his Address, the Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. (Sen.) David Umahi, CON, FNSE, FNATE disclosed the project's significance in enhancing transportation, economic growth, and regional integration. He highlighted the Federal Government's commitment to improving road infrastructure as a means of boosting national development and integration, noting that the partnership driving the project would enhance the safety and efficiency of travel while unlocking the economic potential of the region. “This project will generate significant economic benefits, including job creation and an improved standard of living for the people. I urge all stakeholders to work, collaboratively, to ensure the successful and timely completion of this critical infrastructure,” the Minister stated. He also added that "The Benin–Asaba Expressway Project, is more than a road. It is an ambitious Dual Carriage, solar-lit that is to be fully funded by the private sector under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) agreement." On behalf of the government and good people of Edo and Delta States, the Minister expressed deep appreciation to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR for his leadership and unwavering support for infrastructure development in the region and the nation, at large. He also commended the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Chief Wale Edun, and the Infrastructure Concession and Regulatory Commission (ICRC) for modifying an alternative funding option, outside the national budget, that would guarantee the timely execution of Federal road projects. He officially handed over the Engineering Design and Instruments of Authority for the contract to the Concessionaire, Africa Plus Partners (Nigeria) Limited, while canvassing for support in the 2027 Presidential polls. In their various Goodwill Messages at the epoch-making ceremony, the Governor of Delta State, represented by his Deputy, His Excellency Monday Onyeme, the Senator representing Edo North and former Governor, H.E. Adams Oshiomole, the Commissioner of Police, Edo State and representative of the Transport Union, eulogised Mr. President for the life-changing project, promising to vote for him in 2027, overwhelmingly. The Governor also pleaded with Mr President to extend the alignment to the Onitsha Bridge. In his closing remarks, the Governor of Edo State commended the Federal Government's commitment to infrastructure development, noting that the Renewed Hope Administration of President Tinubu has prioritised road construction as a catalyst for economic transformation. He acknowledged the efforts of the Ministries of Works and Finance in driving infrastructure renewal across the country. “The impact of quality infrastructure cannot be overstated. It is the foundation upon which socio-economic growth and development are built. I commend President Tinubu’s administration for its visionary leadership in making this project a reality,” the Governor stressed. The flag-off of the Benin-Asaba Expressway is a giant leap in Nigeria’s journey towards bequeathing a modern, efficient, and well-maintained road infrastructure to the citizenry. The Federal Government remains resolute in completing this project on schedule, ensuring that citizens and businesses benefit from improved connectivity and its associated economic opportunities. The Highway Development and Management Initiative (HDMI) is a strategic infrastructure development programme of the Federal Ministry of Works designed to encourage private sector participation in the development, rehabilitation, and maintenance of Federal highways across the country. Through this Initiative, the government aims to enhance operational efficiency, accountability, and financial sustainability, ensuring that all stakeholders - the government, private investors, and road users - benefit from improved road networks. As a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, HDMI is structured to attract long-term sustainable investments for the expansion, modernisation, and effective utilisation of Nigeria's road infrastructure. It facilitates the design, construction, operation, management, and maintenance of Federal highways, ensuring that all infrastructure and assets within the designated rights of way are efficiently developed and maintained, leveraging private sector expertise and funding.  It further seeks to enhance road quality, improve connectivity, boost economic activities, and ultimately create a safer and more reliable road transportation network for Nigerians and other users. The Benin-Asaba alignment, a 125-kilometre Dual Carriageway beginning from AIF Roundabout in Benin City, Edo State, and terminating at Summit Junction in Asaba, Delta State, serves as a major link between the South-East, the South-South and some parts of the South-West of Nigeria. It is a vital artery connecting vibrant economic regions of the country. The total project cost required for the rehabilitation and value-added concession of the Expressway will be funded by the Benin - Asaba Expressway Concession Company Limited - Africa Plus Partners (Nigeria) Limited Consortium (APPNLC) with a 30-month completion period. In attendance were many stakeholders, including the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Works, Engr. Olufunsho Adebiyi, FNSE, Directors-General of the Infrastructure Concession and Regulatory Commission (ICRC) and the Bureau for Public Enterprises (BPE), members of the National and State Assemblies, members of the Edo State Executive Council, Traditional Rulers, Party and Opinion Leaders, Market Women, Transport Workers, to mention but a few. ...

WORKS MINISTER UMAHI COMMENDS HEALTH INFRASTRUCTURE INITIATIVES OF PRESIDENT TINUBU, TASKS STAKEHOLDERS ON COLLABORATIVE SUPPORT TO ACHIEVE  SHARED GOALS. CONGRATULATES SSA TO PRESIDENT ON COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT, SOUTH-EAST FOR HER COMMITMENT TO ENHANCING HUMAN EMPOWERMENT AND PROMOTING HEALTHY COMMUNITIES The Honourable Minister of Works, Sen. Engr. Nweze David Umahi CON has praised the efforts of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR in developing critical competencies that will improve health care and other service delivery in Nigeria's health care related academic institutions.  The Honourable Minister made this commendation during the flag-off of a health care programme on free cancer screening, free eye testing, free dialysis, and skills up empowerment  programme for the people and residents of South East organized by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement South East, Barr. (Mrs) Chioma Nweze, in conjunction with David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences Uburu, held at the university premises on 8th March 2025.  The Honourable Minister, who represented the President of Nigeria during the event, said the Federal Government was committed to providing enabling infrastructure and the most conducive learning environment in our universities. He recounted the various interventions of Mr. President to David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences, which was incidentally built by the Honourable Minister when he was the Governor of Ebonyi State and which law establishing it and naming it after the founder, David Umahi, was passed by the 10th National Assembly under the Renewed Hope administration.  He said, "I thank Mr.  President, so much for the asphalting of this institution, the building of the hall that is here, and so many things, including the uninterrupted power  supply enjoyed  by the university." He expressed appreciation to the Governor of Ebonyi State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon.Prince Bldr Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, FNIOB GGCEHF and his dear wife, Her Excellency, Chief (Mrs) Uzoamaka Mary-Maudline Ogbonna Nwifuru for their commitments to the advancement of learning and excellence in the university. "Greet the Governor and his dear wife for me." I am going to support their commitments to this institution when I make my donation. Tell the Governor that I appreciate his subvention to this federal institution, which  he gives every month."  The Honourable Minister commended the SSA to the President on Community Engagement, South-East for the thoughtful motivations of her programme which he said was a wakeup call to all stakeholders, public and private institutions to show collaborative support to the government to achieve shared goals in health care delivery. "And so, what you are doing beyond Ebonyi State for the entire South-East and extending it to the entire Nigeria is commendable. Congratulations on your commitment. Congratulations on this programme" He pledged his continual support to the university to enable it to realize its goals of achieving unmatched excellence in their health care facilities such as Radiology Centre, Cancer Centre, Eye Centre, Kidney Centre, Maternal and Childbirth Centre. Speaking  during the event, the representative of the Governor of Ebonyi State, Her Excellency, Princess Patricia Obila, who is also the Deputy Governor  of Ebonyi State, extolled  the initiative of the SSA on Community Engagement to give the people access  to quality health care and life changing empowerment and assured of the commitment  of the State Government in supporting  the Federal University of Health Sciences  in the State  in realizing  the objectives of its establishment. "We have committed so much, both money, a lot of commitment, and still, this government is also highly determined and committed to giving all the enabling environment to make sure that any programme concerning health is given the total support it deserves." Earlier in her address, the SSA to the President on Community Engagement said she initiated the health care outreach and skill up empowerment programme for South-East communities to add value to the laudable initiatives of Mr. President's administration, which is aimed at stimulating economic growth and enhancing the quality of life for all Nigerians.  She said, "I recognize that access to quality health care is a fundamental human right, and it is our responsibility to ensure that every individual in the South-East has access to it, regardless of their background or financial situation. Our medical outreach initiative, which we have earlier started, is a multifaceted programme that will provide a range of free medical services, including cancer screening, free eye screening, and medical classes to the first 200 patients. We have also provided dialysis treatment for one year for all the 97 Local Government Areas in the South-East. My office will equally be flagging off the skill up South-East programme, which focuses on empowerment of the people and residents of South-East through fashion and entrepreneurship." She further assured, "Our participants will have access to modern tailoring facilities, mentorship, and guidance from industrial experts.  We are not only empowering our youths through skill acquisition, but we are also providing them with the opportunity to develop their business plans and pitch their ideas. This will enable them to become entrepreneurs and job creators, contributing to the economic growth and development of our region." She thanked immensely the collaborations of David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences and solicited for more collaborations from public spirited individuals and bodies to enable her to attain the aspirations of her office in raising capacities and enhancing self reliance in South-East  ...