Aug

09

2022

Fashola Inaugurates COREN Board Members, Charges Them on Professionalism.

.... Reiterates Federal Government's Commitment to Infrastructural Development.

Works and Housing Minister, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN has inaugurated the 9 Member Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), today Tuesday 9th August, 2022, charging them to ensure that the ethics guiding the Engineering profession are upheld.

Fashola reiterated the commitment of the Federal Government to the development of infrastructure.  He said, “As you are all aware our government has committed to infrastructure and as you all know infrastructure brings development to the country, it boosts our economy, it creates employment and it enables the nation to compete for continental and global space."

The Minister noted that members of the Engineering profession have been and will continue to play a significant role in this regard and stressed the need for COREN to ensure that professionalism is at its peak. He charged them to uphold the moral and ethical standards of the profession, adding that true professionals always do the right thing no matter the situation and will not compromise standards in the face of pressure.

One of the Council members and immediate past President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Engineer Babagana Mohammed said the new Council members are coming with a lot of experience and dedication to protect the ethics and standards of the Engineering profession.

He said, we are going to emphasize on the dos and don'ts because so many things are happening. Some people do not understand the regulations, so we need to make people understand and obey the regulations."

He added that it will form the focus of the ongoing conference of COREN.

Speaking in the same vein, another member, Professor Zekeni Robert Yelebe who gave the vote of thanks on behalf of the Council members praised the infrastructural drive of the Buhari administration and pledged that they will ensure that standards are upheld in the profession.

He said, "We can see that this government is serious in terms of infrastructural development and as a Council, we will make sure that engineering activities especially infrastructural development is done with all engineering ethics."

He added that the Council will also look at the curriculum of institutions offering Engineering courses to see if there is need for changes or improvements to be made.

He disclosed that accreditation issues will also be appraised to ensure that the products of the Engineering Institutions can compete with their counterparts in any part of the world.

The newly inaugurated Council Members are: Dr. Muhammed Danlami Jibrin, representing North West, Dr. Idiat Ibironke Arogundade, representing the North Central, Professor Baba Shehu Waziri, representing the North East, Professor Zekeni Roberts Yelebe, representing the South South and Professor Gabriel Obafemi Shonaike, representing the South West.

Others are: Engineer Babajide Ojedele representing the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, Ademola Isaac Olurunfemi also representing the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, Engineer Tasiu Wudil and Engineer Babagana Mohammed both representing the Nigeria Society of Engineers.

Aug

03

2022

Perm Sec Charges Engineers on Economic Growth and Job Creation.

The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, Bashir Nura Alkali, FCA, FCTI, has charged Nigerian Engineers to come up with resolutions that can lead to economic growth and job creation in the country.

He gave this charge while declaring open the 43rd Conference of Directors of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Departments of Ministries of Works and Housing in the Federation.

Alkali, was ably represented by the Director, Human Resources Department in the   Ministry, Aliyu Abdullahi

The Theme of the Conference is "Engineers as Catalyst for National Economic Growth and Job Creation."

He said "Conversing about Engineers as Catalyst for National Economic Growth and Job Creation, the papers to be presented at this conference are to address issues bothering on economic growth and job creation"
 
He also noted that Engineers need to start turning their ideas and inventions into marketable products and services through planning, designing, constructing, installing, commissioning and maintaining of infrastructures.

Describing the roles of engineers as prime and fundamental, Alkali pointed out that to alleviate poverty in Nigeria, the country would need a growth model that could generate adequate jobs for her citizens and it could only be achieved through industrialization.

"Nigeria needs a growth model that can generate sufficient jobs for her huge population and also be inclusive enough to significantly curb poverty" he said.

Accordingly, the Permanent Secretary stated that industrialization being a product of technologies and application of technological breakthrough could only be a reality through advancement in engineering.

He told the delegates that the Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, has given the approval for the Ministry to commence the training of Artisans in the various Ministry’s training schools, pointing out that the launching of the N-Power by the administration of President Muhammad Buhari and Special Public Works Programme has provided Nigerian youths job placement and empowerment.

In his welcome address, the chairman of the Conference and Head of Engineering Department in the Federal Ministry of Works, Engr. Valentine Nwaimo, urged delegates to come up with a workable communique that could be presented for consideration and approval at the upcoming Council on Works.

"As the Conference progresses, I want to wish all of us a very fruitful deliberation so as to come up with a good communiquè that is worthy of presentation at the Council of Works which is the highest policy making body for consideration and approval," he said.

According to Engr Nwaimo, the Conference of Directors of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Department of the Ministries of Works and Housing of the Federation is an annual event where papers on a selected theme are presented and deliberated upon for the acceleration of Nigeria’s development.

He told the participants to utilize this opportunity to brainstorm on topical issues affecting the growth of the country in diverse area and come up with innovative ideas that could lead to economic growth, creation of jobs as well as stem the tide of corruption.

Jul

20

2022

Works Ministry Organizes Health Talk for Directors.

In a bid to create awareness on health-related matters that will greatly enhance productivity, more so to aid the life expectancy of serving Officers, the Ministry of Works and Housing has organized a one-day Workshop on Health matters for Directors of the Ministry, Wednesday, July 20, 2022.

The one-day workshop is on: stress management, hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, work-life balance of and Cardiac Arrest.

The workshop was Organized in recognition of the important roles Directors plays in their fields and capacity in managing staff and material resources of their departments.

In his opening address before declaring the workshop open, the Permanent Secretary Of the Ministry, Bashir Nura Alkali, FCA, FCTI said that the objective of the workshop is to create awareness on early detection of some health-related challenges that are life-threatening diseases before they become intractable.

Mr Bashir Nura Alkali added that the Ministry has maintained a robust plan as part of its efforts to improve the welfare and general well-being of its staff as part of its reward system.

 " It is my pleasure therefore to underline that the health plan which initially began as a bi-monthly routine medical check-up has been scaled up to include an annual health talk for all staff of the Ministry",  he said.

Alkali encouraged the Directors to reap the full benefits of the health talk and promised that the health talk workshop would be extended to other categories of staff of the Ministry.

The workshop was Organized by Elyon Synergy Ltd, Lagos, in conjunction with the Ministry of Works and Housing. The two Medical Doctors who delivered the talks are Dr. Jacob Nwanchukwu a stress management consultant and Prof. David.A. Oke, the current Provost of the College of Medicine, University of Lagos.

Some of the important health topics discussed included: Prevention and Control of Hypertension, Economic Burden of Cardiovascular Diseases.

Discussed extensively also were, kidney functions, failure and treatment, modern methods of diabetic management, sudden death and technology of medical devices.

Others are high cholesterol and physical exercise for fitness, finance, wellness and stress-free investments were emphasized.

The workshop was well attended by the Directors of the Ministry because of the invaluable benefit of health in relation with their work fields and capacities.

Giving his Vote of Thanks, the Director, Human Resources, Alhaji Aliyu Abdullahi, appreciated the Honourable Ministers for granting approval for this health talk for the Directors of the Ministry.

He said that for the workshop to get its approval, the Ministers and the Permanent Secretary truly demonstrated that they value the Management of the Ministry and therefore take seriously the health issues of its staff.

" It is highly commendable and we should take the health tips serious as recommended by our health experts," he said.

Jul

02

2022

Speech by President Muhammadu Buhari represented by the Honourable Minister of Power, Engr Abubakar D. Aliyu at The Completion and Handover of Nguru-Gashua-Bayamari Road in Yobe State on Saturday, 2nd  July, 2022

On behalf of the Federal Government and President Muhammadu Buhari, I bring best wishes to the Government and people of Yobe State.

Our commitment to improving road transport infrastructure, our determination to improve the ease of doing business, create jobs and prosperity to lift people out of poverty brings us here today because the results of our investment are manifesting.

I can confidently say that as we enter the final lap of the tenure of the Buhari administration we are also entering a season of completion and delivery of projects.

As you can all see, we are handing over today the 55 Kilometre Road, which links Nguru-Gashua-Bayamari in Yobe State to Jigawa and Borno States. A very important Road that connects agrarian and trading communities to ease the movement of their farm products.

By linking these communities together, this road becomes a critical component of our national road network.

This road has been built to the highest quality of design and workmanship and if is well used and not abused, it should last for the designed service life.

Road abuse takes many forms such as overloading of vehicles and trucks which accelerates pavement damage, spilling of petroleum products, which dissolves all the components and allows water to penetrate, and converting the road shoulders to permanent parking places, that brings the onset of road failure from the shoulder.

We must all do our best to avoid these practices, report them when they occur and act in a lawful manner to stop them.

The road is also a story of the capacity of our people. The patriotic Nigerians who were employed directly to build this road, the scores of suppliers employed indirectly who are responsible for providing the machines utilized in the construction.

These are not only nation builders to whom we offer our salutations, they are the heart of the Nigerian economy, the micro, small and medium enterprises that drive our economic growth.

This road is also a statement of economic efficiency and ease of doing business.

This is because the travel time before construction has now reduced since the completion of the road.

Of course, this road is part of our many roads to prosperity because reduced journey times means reduced expense on travel, because time is money.

This road also symbolizes change as you will observe in the road furniture, such as the lane markings and Route Assurance signs.

These components had all but disappeared on our highways but our commitment to change has restored them, with the markings helping drivers to achieve better lane management and control of their vehicles; while the Route Assurance signs provide information about how much further or longer, the drivers and commuters have to travel and the distance to the next village, town or state.

Of course, another element of change is the travel experience on a new and well-built road from the old and previously unmotorable road.

Now that we have this new and well-built road, we have duties to ourselves and to other road users.

One of those duties is to ensure that we drive in accordance with the law as stipulated in the Highway Code.

Accordingly, for the avoidance of any doubt, I wish to reiterate that the maximum driving speed on this and other Federal Highways nationwide is 100 (ONE HUNDRED) KM PER HOUR and no more.

On behalf of the Federal Government and President Muhammadu Buhari, I formally declare this Nguru-Gashua-Bayamari Road in Yobe State completed and open for public use. 

For your safety and that of other road users, I implore you not to exceed 100 KM PER HOUR. 

We want you alive to witness and be part of the prosperity and promise of Nigeria. 

I wish you safe and happy motoring.

Engr. Abubakar D. Aliyu, FNSE
Honourable Minister of Power

Jul

02

2022

Welcome Address by The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry Of Works And Housing, Bashir Nura Alkali, FCA, FCTI Represented by the Controller Yobe State, Engr O. B. Akinmade at The Commissioning of The Construction of Nguru-Gashua-Bayamari Road Section II, Phase I (Gashua-Bayamari) and Rehabilitation of Nguru-Gashua Bayamari Road Section I (Nguru-Gashua) Phase II in Yobe State on Saturday, 2nd July, 2022.

PROTOCOLS
        It is my great pleasure to welcome you all to this significant event in the affairs of our National life. I welcome all the eminent and distinguished invited guests to the occasion of the commissioning of the second phase of the completed roads across the country. 
2.        On behalf of the Honourable Minister Babatunde Raji Fashola SAN, Directors and Head of Units, Federal Ministry of Works & Housing, I welcome all distinguished invited Guests, the Royal Fathers and the entire people of Yobe State to this event.
3.        As part of President Muhammadu Buhari’s developmental agenda of addressing road infrastructural development across the length and breadth of Nigeria, the Federal Government as a policy direction focused on the completion of several on-going projects to stimulate economic development, job creation and promoting local content. The focus is to link the major arterial roads to Refineries, Ports, tertiary institutions and high volume commercial centres with a view to reducing travel times, vehicle maintenance costs, safety and security of commuters etc.

4.        The Ministry has successfully completed several roads and maintained several bridges to ensure that road users have a rewarding road travel experience. Several other roads and bridges are at various stages of completion such as the 2nd Niger Bridge and its approach road, Dualization of Abuja-Kaduna-Kano, Loko-Oweto Bridge linking Nasarawa to Benue States, Dualization of Enugu-Portharcourt Expressway, Bodo-Bonny Brigde, Lagos-Ibadan Dualization project, to mention just a few. 
5.         We have now entered the season of completion and handover of several roads and bridges projects across the country. Recently, 5-roads were commissioned by Mr. President who was represented by the Cabinet Ministers from the states where the projects were sited such as:
i.    Commissioning of Sokoto-Tambuwal-Jega-Kotangora-Makere Road, Phases I&II in Kebbi State;
ii.    Vandeikya-Obudu Cattle Ranch Road Phases I&II in Benue State;
iii.    Nenwe-Oduma Road Sections I&II in Enugu and Ebonyi States;
iv.    Kano-Maiduguri Section III (Azare-Potiskum) in Bauchi/Yobe States; and
v.    Kano-Maiduguri Road Section II Shuwarin-Azare, with spur from Dutse to Kwanar Huguma in Jigawa/Bauchi States.
6.         In this phase of the commissioning, Mr. President approved the commissioning of the following roads:
i.     Rehabilitation of Efon Alaaye-Erinmo-Iwaraja Road In Ekiti/Osun States;

ii.    Isoko Ring Road in Delta State;
iii.    Rehabilitation of Hadeija-Nguru Road, Phase II CH 40+000-CH 73+150 Kirikasama-Nguru in Jigawa State;
iv.    Completion of Gombe-Numan-Yola Road Phase II (Gombe-Kaltungo) in Gombe State; 
v.    Construction of Nguru-Gashua-Bayamari Road Section II, Phase I, (Gashua-Bayamari), Yobe State;
vi.    Rehabilitation of Nguru-Gashua-Bayamari Road Section I (Nguru-Gashua) Phase II in Yobe State;
vii.    Rehabilitation of Lafia-Obi-Awe-Tunga Road in Nasarawa State.
7.        As we complete the commissioning of this road here in Yobe State, the train will move to Nasarawa State and on to the others.
  8.         Our joy is that Nigerians are benefitting from the fruits of democracy and the promises made by the present Administration. These projects have created direct and indirect jobs as well as provided socio-economic benefits that the magnitude of such projects carries with it.
9.    At this juncture, I welcome you all once again to the commissioning ceremony of this laudable road project in Yobe State.  

Thank you and God bless you.

Jul

01

2022

Timely Completion of The Rehabilitation of Kaduna - Pambeguwa - Jos Road Assured - Engr. F. Esan

The Director, Highway Construction and Rehabilitation, Engr. Folorunsho Esan has assured the completion of Kaduna - Pambeguwa - Jos Road in Kaduna and Plateau state within the next 12 months.

The Director made this known during an inspection tour on the road recently to ascertain the progress and level of work done so far by the contractor.

Esan is optimistic that the rehabilitation work on the road will be completed in due cause saying he is highly satisfied with the quality and pace of work on the road.

" Yes, the quality of work is satisfactory, we have 35km of binder and if you don't look properly, you'd think the job is finished. We are still expecting another layer on top.18% is done currently because 35km out of 190km is 18%, which shows there is a lot of progress from the date the contract was awarded" he said.

The Director confirmed that the funding of the project is not a problem as the source of funding the project has already been mapped out.

"Everything is together, when you think of the time of completion, you'd think of the funding that is available, the funding has to match the time frame and we are trying with what we have to ensure that the project is completed within the next 12 months" he said.

Esan encouraged the contractor to continue with the pace of work and that whatever challenge they may encounter, will be attended to in good time.

" They should not stop work; they should continue working. Whatever is the problem would be solved and they should just keep up the pace of work" he said.

At the inspection of the road too, the Director, Highway, North West, Engr. Adebayo Taiwo said that the road has added value and economically impacted on a lot of communities along the road corridor.

"You can see that this road cut across many states, starting from Kaduna and going towards Jos border and there is also a spur to Bauchi. So, there is a lot of economic impact. Agricultural areas are being more accessible, rural communities too are now being well connected" he said.

He pointed out that the road has helped the local communities to have easy access to bigger cities like Kaduna to sell their farm produce.

" you can see that this particular location we passed now, where there is a settlement, with drainage and proper layout makes easy access to Kaduna and if they want to go to Jos too they can easily connect to move their agricultural products" he said.

While explaining the progress of work done so far, the contractor handling the project Messes Setraco Nig. Limited represented by the project Manager, Engr. Jabir Mustapha appreciated the Ministry for the award of the contract and confirmed that funding of the project has not been a challenge.  He noted that all the communities along the road are cooperating with them.

He promised that the road project will be delivered on time but noted that the rainy season might reduce the pace of work but the specifications and the standard must be maintained.

He thanked the Ministry for regular release of funds.  He also appreciated the nearby communities for their security support.

The Engineer's representative on site, Engr. Eyitayo Aluko gave the project description saying that, the existing road is approximately 199.50km in length.  The project begins from Maraban Jos to Tudor Fulani in Plateau State border 189.9km, while spur begins from Saminaka junction to Bauchi State border 9.6km.  The road he said serves as a link road from Kaduna State and other North Western States to Plateau and other North Eastern States of the country.

Jun

23

2022

WELCOME ADDRESS BY THE PERMANENT SECRETARY, FEDERAL MINISTRY OF WORKS AND HOUSING, BASHIR NURA ALKALI, FCA, FCTI  AT THE COMMISSIONING OF LAFIA-OBI-AWE-TUNGA ROAD IN NASARAWA STATE ON THURSDAY, 23rd JUNE, 2022.

PROTOCOLS

       It is my great pleasure to welcome you all to this significant event in the affairs of our National life. I welcome all the eminent and distinguished invited guests to the occasion of the commissioning of the second phase of the completed roads across the country. 

2.   On behalf of the Honourable Minister Babatunde Raji Fashola SAN, Directors and Head of Units, Federal Ministry of Works & Housing, I welcome all distinguished invited Guests, the Royal Fathers and the entire people of Nasarawa State to this event.

3.    As part of President Muhammadu Buhari’s developmental agenda of addressing road infrastructural development across the length and breadth of Nigeria, the Federal Government as a policy direction focused on the completion of several on-going projects to stimulate economic development, job creation and promoting local content. The focus is to link the major arterial roads to Refineries, Ports, tertiary institutions and high volume commercial centres with a view to reducing travel times, vehicle maintenance costs, safety and security of commuters etc.

4.    The Ministry has successfully completed several roads and maintained several bridges to ensure that road users have a rewarding road travel experience. Several other roads and bridges are at various stages of completion such as the 2nd Niger Bridge and its approach road, Dualization of Abuja-Kaduna-Kano, Loko-Oweto Bridge linking Nasarawa to Benue States, Dualization of Enugu-Portharcourt Expressway, Bodo-Bonny Brigde, Lagos-Ibadan Dualization project,  to mention just a few. 

5.     We have now entered the season of completion and handover of several roads and bridges projects across the country. Recently, 5-roads were commissioned by Mr. President who was represented by the Cabinet Ministers from the states where the projects were sited such as:

Commissioning of Sokoto-Tambuwal-Jega-Kotangora-Makere Road, Phases I&II in Kebbi State;

Vandeikya-Obudu Cattle Ranch Road Phases I&II in Benue State;

Nenwe-Oduma Road Sections I&II in Enugu and Ebonyi States;

Kano-Maiduguri Section III (Azare-Potiskum) in Bauchi/Yobe States; and

Kano-Maiduguri Road Section II Shuwarin-Azare, with spur from Dutse to Kwanar Huguma in Jigawa/Bauchi States.

6.   In this phase of the commissioning, Mr. President approved the commissioning of the following roads:

Rehabilitation of Efon Alaaye-Erinmo-Iwaraja Road In Ekiti/Osun States;

Isoko Ring Road in Delta State; 

Rehabilitation of Hadeija-Nguru Road, Phase II CH 40+000-CH 73+150 Kirikasama-Nguru in Jigawa State;

Completion of Gombe-Numan-Yola Road Phase II (Gombe-Kaltungo) in Gombe State; 

Construction of Nguru-Gashua-Bayamari Road Section II, Phase I, (Gashua-Bayamari), Yobe State;

Rehabilitation of Nguru-Gashua-Bayamari Road Section I (Nguru-Gashua) Phase II in Yobe State;

Rehabilitation of Lafia-Obi-Awe-Tunga Road in Nasarawa State.

7.    As we complete the commissioning of this road here in Nasarawa State, the train will move to Yobe State.

8.    Our joy is that Nigerians are benefitting from the fruits of democracy and the promises made by the present Administration. These projects have created direct and indirect jobs as well as provided socio-economic benefits that the magnitude of such projects carries with it.

9.    At this juncture, I welcome you all once again to the commissioning ceremony of this laudable road project in Nasarawa State.  

Thank you and God bless you.
 

Jun

23

2022

6th Babatunde Raji Fashola (BRF) GABFEST To Hold  June 28

As part of efforts targeted at creating a platform for the active involvement of the youth in Nigeria’s future, the 6th Babatunde Raji Fashola (BRF) Gabfest will hold next week, Tuesday 28th June, at 11a.m as a ZOOM Webinar (bit.ly/gabfest6).

The BRF Gabfest which holds in honor of the 59th birthday celebration of Legal practitioner and Public Servant, the Honorable Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, is expected to have in attendance stakeholders from the public and private sectors, as well as members of the general public.
 
This year’s event which is themed: ‘What am I voting for?’ is anticipated to have numerous attendees and is open to members of the public via a registration link (bit.ly/gabfest6).
 
The BRF Gabfest will feature 6 speakers on a panel, who will offer constructive insights cut across both the public and private sector, and offer the audience a chance to also engage on issues pertaining to the theme.
 
Now in its 6th year, the goal of the BRF Gabfest is to create an interactive platform where the role of the youth in Nigeria’s future will be discussed and heard. It is targeted at those who are sincerely concerned about the future of Nigeria, and the role young people have to play in that future.

Jun

21

2022

REMARKS BY THE HONOURABLE MINISTER OF WORKS AND HOUSING, MR BABATUNDE FASHOLA, SAN AT THE PROJECT COMPLETION AND HAND OVER ON TUESDAY, 21ST JUNE, 2022 AT UZERE VILLAGE, DELTA STATE 

On behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria and President Muhammadu Buhari, I bring good tidings to the peoples and Government of Delta State, who will be impacted by the Isoko Ring Road that our President will hand over today.

My principal message to you all is that this is the first of the second phase of project Completion and Handovers our country will be witnessing as we progress further in this season of completion and impact which started in the last quarter of 2021. 

In this second phase of completion Mr. President has also approved that Ministers from the various States where projects have been completed should represent him to perform the handover formalities.

The other handing over formalities that will follow these formalities which we flagged-off in Ekiti and Jigawa States, will also be in:

Yobe for Section II and Phase I of the Nguru – Gashua – Bayamari Road covering Gashua to Bayamari; Section I, Phase II covering Nguru to Gashua; 

Nasarawa for Lafia – Obi – Awe – Tunga Road; and

Gombe for Phase II of the Gombe – Numan –Yola Road covering Gombe – Kaltungo.

These projects represent major investment in road Transport infrastructure, which is a commitment of the Buhari administration as a driver for economic growth and prosperity.

They are visible and incontrovertible Assets in proof of what Nigeria’s resources are invested in, from a combination of our earned resources, and borrowings.

This occasion affords the opportunity to restate that in addition to other innovative sources of funding, our Budgetary provisions are also being diligently applied to complete projects such as these.

I want to express deep gratitude to the Ministry of Finance, and the members of the National Assembly, especially the Chairmen of the Senate and House Committees on Works in the 8th and 9th Assembly for their support.

To our staff and contractors who have worked very hard to bring these projects to conclusion I also say thank you, as I cannot fail to acknowledge the cooperation of the host communities where these projects pass through or are hosted.

I hold them out as examples of what peace can achieve, and the investments that collaboration and some sacrifice can deliver if we embrace partnership with Government.
Ladies and Gentlemen, none of these would have been possible without the support of Ministers in the Federal Executive Council during debates over the projects.

To all Ministers in the first term and this current term, I express gratitude on behalf of the Ministry of Works and Housing for your support. 

To the President and Vice President who preside for long hours over the Council meetings, your leadership is now bearing fruits and the evidence of change is now manifesting.

Ekiti/Osun, Gombe, Yobe, and Nasarawa among several other States bearing witness and there is more to come. 

Thank You.

BABATUNDE RAJI FASHOLA, SAN
MINISTER OF WORKS AND HOUSING

Jun

21

2022

SPEECH BY PRESIDENT MUHAMMADU BUHARI AT THE COMPLETION AND HANDOVER OF ISOKO RING ROAD IN DELTA STATE ON TUESDAY, 21st JUNE, 2022

On behalf of the Federal Government and President Muhammadu Buhari, I bring best wishes to the Government and people of Delta State.

Our commitment to improving road transport infrastructure, our determination to improve the ease of doing business,create jobs and prosperity to lift people out of poverty brings us here today because the results of our investment are manifesting.

I can confidently say that as we enter the final lap of the tenure of the Buhari administration we are also entering a season of completion and delivery of projects.

As you can all see, we are handing over today the 7.85 Kilometre Road, which links Aviara-Uzere in Delta State. A very important Road that connects agrarian and fishing communities to ease the movement of their farm products.

By linking these communities together, this road becomes a critical component of our national road network.

This road has been built to the highest quality of design and workmanship and if is well used and not abused, it should last for the designed service life.

Road abuse takes many forms such as overloading of vehicles and trucks which accelerates pavement damage, spilling of petroleum products, which dissolves all the components and allows water to penetrate, and converting the road shoulders to permanent parking places, that brings the onset of road failure from the shoulder.

We must all do our best to avoid these practices, report them when they occur and act in a lawful manner to stop them.

The road is also a story of the capacity of our people. The patriotic Nigerians who were employed directly to build this road, the scores of suppliers employed indirectly who are responsible for providing the machines utilized in the construction.

These are not only nation builders to whom we offer our salutations, they are the heart of the Nigerian economy, the micro, small and medium enterprises that drive our economic growth.

This road is also a statement of economic efficiency and ease of doing business.

This is because the travel time before construction has now reduced since the completion of the road.

Of course, this road is part of our many roads to prosperity because reduced journey times means reduced expense on travel, because time is money.

This road also symbolizes change as you will observe in the road furniture, such as the lane markings and Route Assurance signs.

These components had all but disappeared on our highways but our commitment to change has restored them, with the markings helping drivers to achieve better lane management and control of their vehicles; while the Route Assurance signs provide information about how much further or longer, the drivers and commuters have to travel and the distance to the next village, town or state.

Of course, another element of change is the travel experience on a new and well-built road from the old and previously unmotorable road.

Now that we have this new and well-built road, we have duties to ourselves and to other road users.

One of those duties is to ensure that we drive in accordance with the law as stipulated in the Highway Code.
Accordingly, for the avoidance of any doubt, I wish to reiterate that the maximum driving speed on this and other Federal Highways nationwide is 100 (ONE HUNDRED) KM PER HOUR and no more.

On behalf of the Federal Government and President Muhammadu Buhari, I formally declare this Isoko Ring Road in Delta State completed and open for public use. 

For your safety and that of other road users, I implore you not to exceed 100 KM PER HOUR. 

We want you alive to witness and be part of the prosperity and promise of Nigeria. 

I wish you safe and happy motoring.

Festus Keyamo, SAN
Honourable Minister of Labour and Employment

Jun

19

2022

Roads: FG Commission's 33 Kilometre Road Section linking Jigawa - Yobe States

It was celebration galore, over the weekend in Jigawa State when the Federal Government commissioned the completed phase 2 (Kirikasama-Nguru) of the Hadejia- Nguru-Gashua road linking Jigawa and Yobe States.

The commissioning of the completed section took place over the weekend in Birniwa town, Birniwa local government headquarters in Jigawa State.

The commissioning tagged ''Season of Completion and Delivery of Projects' was performed by President Muhammadu Buhari, represented by the Honourable Minister of Water Resources, Engr Suleiman Adamu, FNSE.

In his address, the President said, “it is our commitment to improving road transport infrastructure. It is also our determination to improve the ease of doing business, create jobs, wealth and prosperity in order to lift citizens from poverty "

President Buhari described the over 33 Kilometre Road, which links Hadejia-Kirikasama in Jigawa State as a very important road that connects agrarian and trading communities, which to a large extent will ease the movement of their farm produce .

He said, the road became a critical component of national road network for linking communities together, pointing out that the travel time has now reduced with the completion of the road.

Accordingly, the President called on all road users not to abuse the road, pointing out that forms of road abuses such as: overloading of vehicles and trucks accelerates pavement damage, also spilling of petroleum products dissolves all the road components and allows penetration of water, worst still, converting the road shoulders to permanent parking places results in quick  onset of road failure from the shoulder.

The President pleaded with all road users to take responsibility and play their part in ensuring that  they avoid these unwholesome practices, and make every effort to report them when they occur and act in a lawful manner to stop them.

" Now that we have this new and well-built road, we owe it as  duties to ourselves and to other road users to protect these facilities.
One of those duties is to ensure that we drive in accordance with the law as stipulated in the Road Highway Code, " he said.

In his remarks, the  Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola, said that the phase 2 (Kirikasama-Nguru) of the Hadeja-Nguru Federal road project was among the other projects lined up for commissioning in the second phase under the season of completion and impact which started in the last quarter of 2021

The Minister who was represented by the Zonal Director Highway (Construction & Rehabilitation) North West, Engr Wasiu Adetayo Taiwo said the projects represent major investment in road Transport infrastructure, which is a commitment of the Buhari led-administration as a driver for economic growth and prosperity.

He described the projects as visible and incontrovertible Assets and as proof of what Nigeria’s resources are being invested into from a combination of earned resources and borrowings.

Accordingly, Fashola listed the other roads lined up for commissioning across the geo-political zones to include:
Isoko Ring Road (Section II) covering Aviara -Uzere in Delta State; Nguru-Gashua-Bayamari (section I, phase II) covering Nguru-Gashua in Yobe State; Lafia-Obi-Awe-Tunga Road in Nassarawa State, and Gombe -Numan-Yola Road (Phase II) covering Gombe- Kaltungo in Gombe- State.

In a welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, Bashir Nura Alkali, represented by the Federal Controller of Works in Jigawa State, Engr. Atewolora Oladele Gabriel, said the project was part of President Muhammadu Buhari’s developmental agenda of addressing road infrastructural development across the length and breadth of Nigeria

He said " Federal Government has a policy direction which was focused on the completion of several on-going projects to stimulate economic development, job creation and promoting local content. The focus is to link the major arterial roads to Refineries, Ports, tertiary institutions and high volume commercial centres with a view to reducing travel times, cost of vehicle maintenance, safety and security of commuters, "

Alkali disclosed that the Ministry has successfully completed several roads and maintained several bridges to ensure that road users have a rewarding road travel experience, adding that several roads and bridges are at various stages of completion.

He listed among other projects: the 2nd Niger Bridge and its approaching  road, Dualization of Abuja-Kaduna-Kano, Loko-Oweto Bridge linking Nasarawa to Benue States, dualization of Enugu-Por-Harcourt Expressway, Bodo-Bonny Brigde, and Lagos-Ibadan Dualization projects.

In his remark, Jigawa State Governor, Muhammadu Badaru Abubakar, expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for the numerous projects executed by the administration of President Muhamadu Buhari in Jigawa state.

Governor Badaru was represented at the occasion by his deputy, Alhaji Umar Namadi .

He stated that the road being commissioned today was a nightmare to the people before the intervention of the Buhari's administration, pointing out also the many other roads being constructed by the Federal Government in Jigawa State.

" What do we have to say to Mr President. The many interventions by the Federal Government in Jigawa State has improved the lives of the people. Jigawa State is grateful for all the Interventions, including the Social Interventions, N Power, Trader Money etc " he said 

The Governor also commended the Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola for what he described as his commitment in making things happened for the visibility of the Buhari Administration, stating that the Interventions have improved the social lives and economic status of his people.

House of Representatives Member representing Kirikasama/Birniwa/
Guri Federal Constituency, the location of the project, Hon. Dr. Abubakar Hassan Fulata , appreciated the Federal Government for the many laudable projects in Jigawa State.

Dr. Fulata said " the road project being commissioned today had defied many administrations for almost four decades. The road project budget was alot of money without commensurate result. President Buhari has now completed the road within a reasonable time. We are grateful to Mr President. Jigawa State is grateful for benefiting from the Federal Government's projects"

In a goodwill message, the Emir of Hadejia and Chairman Jigawa State Council of Traditional Rulers, His Royal Highness Alh. Adamu Abubakar Maje expressed delight witnessing the commissioning of the project in his Emirate

The Emir who was represented by the Galadiman Hadejia, Alh. Usman Abdul'aziz, commended President Muhamadu Buhari for ensuring completion of the project which he described as critical and important to the economy of the society.

He said the road was critical and has opened the Hadejia Emirate to Yobe State and by extension to Borno State, adding that other projects such as water project, tomatoes factory and siting of some higher Institutions in the stated were also commendable.

"We all know the importance of roads to the economic and social existence of every community and every society. We are grateful for the infrastructural projects. Hadejia Emirate got a large share of it. We also wish and pray for more" he said.

In his vote of thanks, the Project Contractor, Mothercat Limited, Fady Khoury Hanna, expressed gratitude to the Federal Government and to the Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola, for the ample opportunity given to them to handle the project.

Fady appreciated Jigawa and Yobe States Government for their cooperation, hospitality and making them feel at home during the construction, assuring the Federal Government of their commitment to deliver quality work at any time in any project they undertook.

Testimonies from the people of the community and road users were also full of commendation and appreciation.

Mallam Ali Alaska, a transporter narrated how terrible and difficult the road was before the rehabilitation. He appreciated the Federal Government for the road project. He said that there was no doubt the contractor has done a good work and the travel time has drastically reduced.

Jun

18

2022

Remarks by The Honourable Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, SAN Represented by Zonal Director Highways (C&R), Engr. Wasiu Adetayo at The Commissioning and Handover Ceremony on Saturday 18th June, 2022 at Birniwa, Jigawa State

On behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria and President Muhammadu Buhari, I bring good tidings to the peoples and Government of Jigawa State, who will be impacted by the Hadeijia-Nguru Road, that our President will hand over today.

My principal message to you all is that this is the first of the second phase of project Completion and Handovers our country will be witnessing as we progress further in this season of completion and impact which started in the last quarter of 2021.

In this second phase of completion Mr. President has also approved that Ministers from the various States where projects have been completed should represent him to perform the handover formalities.

The other handing over formalities that will follow these formalities Jigawa will be in:

a) Delta for Isoko Ring Road Section II covering Aviara – Uzere.

b) Yobe for Section II and Phase I of the Nguru – Gashua – Bayamari Road covering Gashua to Bayamari; Section I, Phase II covering Nguru to Gashua.

c) Nasarawa for Lafia – Obi – Awe – Tunga Road.

d) Gombe for Phase II of the Gombe – Numan –Yola Road covering Gombe – Kaltungo.

These projects represent major investment in road Transport infrastructure, which is a commitment of the Buhari administration as a driver for economic growth and prosperity.

They are visible and incontrovertible Assets in proof of what Nigeria’s resources are invested in, from a combination of our earned resources, and borrowings.

This occasion affords the opportunity to restate that in addition to other innovative sources of funding, our Budgetary provisions are also being diligently applied to complete projects such as these.

I want to express deep gratitude to the Ministry of Finance, and the members of the National Assembly, especially the Chairmen of the Senate and House Committees on Works in the 8th and 9th Assembly for their support.

To our staff and contractors who have worked very hard to bring these projects to conclusion I also say thank you, as I cannot fail to acknowledge the cooperation of the host communities where these projects pass through or are hosted.

I hold them out as examples of what peace can achieve, and the investments that collaboration and some sacrifice can deliver if we embrace partnership with Government.

Ladies and Gentlemen, none of these would have been possible without the support of Ministers in the Federal Executive Council during debates over the projects.

To all Ministers in the first term and this current term, I express gratitude on behalf of the Ministry of Works and Housing for your support.

To the President and Vice President who preside for long hours over the Council meetings, your leadership is now bearing fruits and the evidence of change is now manifesting.

Ekiti/Osun, Delta, Gombe, Yobe, and Nasarawa among several other States bearing witness and there is more to come.

Thank You.

BABATUNDE RAJI FASHOLA, SAN

MINISTER OF WORKS AND HOUSING

Jun

18

2022

Rehabilitation And Expansion Of Lagos–Badagry Expressway: Funding Substantially Addressed – Fashola

The Honourable Minister of Works and Housing, H.E. Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN during his working inspection tour of the ongoing rehabilitation and expansion of Lagos – Badagry Expressway while fielding questions from  journalists remarked,   “The main problem on the Lagos –Badagry expressway project was always funding and budget , now that has been substantially addressed with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Road Infrastructure Tax Credit  Scheme and the contractor is progressing with the project  as we can see.”

‘’The Lagos –Badagry route is part of the Lagos –Abidjan highway which is about 1,048 Kilometres. It is also a very strategic investment Nigeria is making as Nigeria’s contribution to West African Trade and also for the local community,” he explained.

During the inspection, while interacting with the Oni Ibereko of  Ibereko 1, Oba Israel Adewale Okoya, Fashola urged the King to discourage some members of the communities from carting away construction materials meant for the road embankment for personal use, and to also tell his subjects  in the area to stop trading by the road side.

The Minister advised the Management of the Contractor handling the road project, China Geo-Engineering Corporation (CGC) Nigeria Limited to employ more staff and get more equipment in order to speed up the progress of work on the road before the weather condition and other factors start to impede the progress on the construction work.

One of the Community Chiefs in the area, Oni Ibereko of  Ibereko 1, Oba Israel Adewale Okoya speaking earlier said “ The completed portion of the road has brought succor to the people. In the past Badagry to Agbara used to be a journey of about four to five hours but the travel time is now less than 30 minutes, and the contractor keep working on the road , we are so happy. I thank President Muhammadu Buhari on behalf of our own son Babatunde Raji Fashola.”

The Oba assured the Minister that he would have meeting with his fellow chiefs and elders in the communities to ensure that the people stop trading by the road side and those carting away building materials would be handed over to the police if they failed to heed warning.

Jun

16

2022

Road Commissioning: FG - financed Road linking Ekiti -Osun State opens, speedy  Commercial  and Transport  activities expected

The Federal Government -financed road linking Ekiti -Osun State has been commissioned, the road is expected to boost both  commercial, social and developmental activities  across the two states.

The Efon Alaaye -Erinmo-Iwaraja Road links the three towns of Efon Alaaye in Ekiti State , Erinmo and Iwaraja in Osun State.

The road  linking the two  states was commissioned and handed  over to the states  in  Efon Alaaye  Ekiti State amid hopes that the new infrastructure will help reduce road fatalities, ease mobility and spur trade within the two states  as well as with their neighbouring states.

 President Muhammadu Buhari commissioned the road   on  Thursday, June 16, 2022 . The event was  attended by government officials , transport operators, members of parliament and traditional chiefs draped in colourful regalia.

*President Buhari who was represented by the Minister of Industry,  Trade and Investment, Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo said, "As you can all see, we are handing over today a 22 kilometre Road, which links the three towns of Efon Alaaye in Ekiti State and Erinmo and Iwaraja in Osun State."

Buhari remarked " By linking Ekiti and Osun State together,  this road becomes a critical component of our national road network.''

 President Buhari further remarked, " This road is also a statement of economic efficiency and ease of doing business.  This is because the travel time of averagely One hour before construction has now been reduced to 20minutes with the completion of the road.''

The Representative of the Minister of Works and Housing , the Zonal Director  South West in the Ministry, Engr. Ademola Kuti remarked, "The other handing over formalities that will follow these formalities which is  flagged  off today in Ekiti will also  be in : Delta State for Isoko Ring Road Section II covering Aviara -Uzere, Jigawa State for Phase II of Hadejia - Nguru covering Kirikasama -Nguru, Gombe State for Phase II  of the Gombe -Numan -Yola Road  covering Gombe- Kaltungo ,  Yobe State for Section II and Phase I of the Nguru -Gashua -Bayamari Road covering Gashua to Bayamari ; Section I, Phase II covering Nguru to Gashua  and Nasarawa State for Lafia-Obi-Awe -Tunga  Road."

Fashola continued, "These projects represent major investment in road transport infrastructure,  which is a commitment of the Buhari administration as a driver for economic growth and prosperity."

Earlier in his welcome address,   the Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, Mr.Bashir Nura Alkali who was represented by the Controller of Works Ekiti State, Engr.Ishaq Lawal said, "As part of President Muhammadu Buhari’s developmental agenda of addressing road infrastructural development across the length and breadth of Nigeria, the Federal Government as a policy direction has focused on the completion of several on-going projects to stimulate economic development, job creation and promoting local content. The focus is to link the major arterial roads to refineries, ports, tertiary institutions and high volume commercial centres with a view to reducing travel times, vehicle maintenance costs, safety and security of commuters etc."

The Deputy Governor of Ekiti State Otunba Bisi Egbeyemi who represented the Governor of Ekiti State, Dr.John Kayode Fayemi said, " We thank God that the job has been completed after 40years . We thank Buhari for attending to the calls of the people and the contractor has done a good job."

The Senator representing Ekiti Central Senatorial District, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele remarked " I will say on behalf  of the Senate Committee on Works that the Contractor has passed oversight test and the contractor must  also  ensure that all safety measures on the road including adequate road signage and lane markings should be engraved on the road. I congratulate Federal Government and those involved in the project."

The  Chairman of Efon Local Government Area Ekiti State, Engineer Bode Adetunji expressed  joy over the completed and commissioned road. He  remarked, " Efon is a  town for over forty years that has no outlet,  but now we have a road linking us to the outside world. We thank the contractor for a good job , Minister of Works and Housing and President Buhari for the project."

His Royal Highness Obalufon Alayemore , Oba Dr. Emmanuel Adesanya Aladejare Agunsoye II , the Alaaye of Efon Alaaye said, "Onbehalf of the community and the people involved in the road rehabilitation,  I say thank you to the Federal Government. We want the Government to continue to maintain the road so that we can enjoy the road for a long time."

His Royal Highness Awaraja of Iwaraja Ijesa Oba Sunday Ibironke , Samoyekon I remarked, " I just want to commend the Controller and  the Minister , the job is  wonderful and good. "

The Managing Director of Kopek Construction Limited, Engr Issam Feghali  that handled the project commented,  "There was no road in Efon Alaaye before the construction started, moreso the topography but we have achieved alot . We appreciate the efforts of the people for their cooperation and better funding from Federal Ministry of Works and Housing under H.E Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN."
The Head of Market Association in Efon Alaaye,  Chief ( Mrs). Gbadamosi Olayemi, said, " We are happy with the road , goods and people can move into Efon, with the road we can now get to Ilesha and Ife in no time."

The Unit Chairman  Efon Alaaye Motor Transport Union , Emmanuel Sere Ogun have this to say, " The road has become the fastest route for commuters and we don't spend much money on vehicle repairs anymore."

Senior Motor Mechanic in the area ,Mr. Adedeji Adewale expressed his satisfaction with the project, " The beauty and aesthetics of the town has been greatly improved with the new road and the harrowing of 15years going through rough road is over."

One of the leading farmers in Efon Alaaye,  Timothy Agbalajobi said, " We are happy with the handing over , God bless Fashola and Federal Government. We no longer have problems moving our produce from farms to town. Issues of breakdown of vehicles with our produce getting  delayed is over."

May

30

2022

SUG President Lauds FG and Fashola for Road Intervention in Fed Poly Birnin Kebbi

The President of the Students Union Government (SUG) of the Federal Polytechnic Birnin Kebbi, Commrade Naziru Muktar has commended the FG under President Muhammadu Buhari and the  Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, SAN for the 1.8km road intervention project being commissioned   in the Federal Polytechnic, Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State.

Commrade Muktar described the road intervention in the Polytechnic as timely and  that the road had also brought succour to the Polytechnic Community who before now had  faced difficulties in their daily movement around the institution.

In his words, " Our students are elated and highly commended the  Government  who have promptly  responded  to their need, adding that the timely intervention in this regard has enormously helped the students  community and motorists."

Comr. Naziru Muhktar said, today we converge at the Waziru Umaru Federal Polytechnic to handover an important and timely 1.8km rehabilitated road by the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing under  President Muhammadu Buhari’s led Administration.

In his remarks, the Rector of the Polytechnic, Dr. Usman Sani Tunga described the project as great and thanked God Almighty and  that the intervention by the Federal Ministry of Works under Fashola had reached them at the right time.

He said,  "Before the intervention, we encountered several accidents. I am glad  to inform the Minister that not the students only are benefitting from this road project but also the entire Polytechnic community and we are not only thanking you sir, but also asking for more road rehabilitation especially the 2.2km road portion leading to the female hostel."

The former Rector of the Polytechnic, Arc. Sani Aliyu who witnessed the hand over said,
" Mine is simple, I sincerely appreciate the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing for providing us with this  ultra-modern road network."

" Honestly speaking, it is indeed a timely intervention which has brought smile on the faces of the students and the entire community" he added.

Architect Aliyu pointed out that the project was completed in a record time with quality materials and thanked the Federal Government for the quick response.

Earlier in his address , the Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, who was represented by the Federal Controller of Works Kebbi State, Engr. Ahmed Yabo said that his Ministry had made road intervention in 46 Tertiary Institutions Nation wide.

 " We have successfully intervened in various internal road networks of 46 Tertiary Institutions and handed over 29 as at 2021and we now have another 17 ready to be handed over, while we’re currently attending to 30 roads in similar institutions across the country making a total of 76 roads"  he said.

The Minister stated that the Administration of President Muhammadu Buhari was consistent with its progressive ideal of improving human conditions, describing the process as a critical intervention to support Education. 

Fashola said, "The gap of our infrastructural needs is steadily being bridged by a gradual process of repairs, renewal and construction on major highways and it has reached the schools."

He expressed the hope that the school will ensure proper maintenance of the asset and not abuse it, pointing out that about 50  people were provided with direct employment during the project.

Aug

20

2022

FG Reiterates Determination to Complete More Road Infrastructure Projects Across the Country El- Yakub

The Federal Government has reiterated its determination to complete more highway projects across the country for the benefit of Nigerians and members of the Public before the expiration of President Muhammadu Buhari led administration.

The Minister of State for Works and Housing, Hon. Umar Ibrahim El- Yakub gave the assurance in Kano, Kano State during an inspection tour of phase one of the Kano-Katsina dual carriage way over the weekend.

El-Yakub said, "We will give all the necessary support to ensure all road infrastructure projects across the country are completed so double your effort to deliver on time."

Hon. El-Yakub noted that the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari is known for investment in highway infrastructure development. The Minister added that road and other infrastructure development projects have generally gotten more boost from this administration than previous ones.

"I believe that most roads and other infrastructure development projects in the country have gotten more boost from this administration of President Muhammadu Buhari who is known to invest in infrastructure development and to ensure completion of infrastructure projects that were started by previous administrations in this country."

The Minister stressed the need for the installation of road markings and signages on the already completed sections of the road for smooth and safe driving on the road.

" I understand you have enough materials at your disposal to do the markings and the signages.  We expect to see that is done because they are very essential in ensuring smooth and safe driving on roads," said El-Yakub.

He reiterated that the Ministry would not relent in ensuring that the quality of work on all road projects across the country are in line with acceptable
standards.

As the 73.10km dual carriage road project is now being funded by Sukuk, the Minister added that funding is no more a challenge.  He promised the contractor that all the necessary support needed would be given for timely completion of the project.

" The Federal Government has solved the funding problem by putting the project under SUKUK funded projects," he said.

The Minister of State encouraged the contractor to keep up with the pace and the quality of work on ground.  He further urged them to intensify more efforts to complete the road project   on or before the agreed completion date.

"I can see the reconstruction work. You have achieved a lot.  That is appreciable despite some challenges. The work will continue to progress. We intend to complete this road hopefully before the end of this year, but you said next year but I want us to challenge ourselves and try to finish the project before the end of the year because you have done more work," said the minister.

The Director Highways, North West Engr. Adetayo Taiwo said the road project inspected had progressed smoothly leaving no stone unturn.

"The contractor has left no room for any form of condemnation, they are working the way they should work," he said.

The Project Engineer Messrs China Engineering Construction Company Ltd (CECC), Engr. Ren Shao Shuai said the project would be delivered on time. He added that they were working in line with the laid down specifications. He thanked the Federal Government for the opportunity to work in the country.

Another road inspected was the construction of a 38.7km Yakasai- Badune-Damargu-Marken Zaklli Single Carriage Way in Bichi Local Government Area of Kano State being handled by the same contractor.

Aug

05

2022

Permanent Solution to Completion of East West Road Underway - Fashola

The Honourable Minister of Works and Housing Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN has assured Nigerians that steps are being taken to provide a permanent solution to completion of section 4 of the East West Road measuring 15 kilometres from Onne Port junction to Eleme Port junction in Rivers State.

The Minister gave this assurance during a meeting with the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Umana Okon Umana in his office at the Ministry's Headquarters in Mabushi, Abuja on Thursday, August 4,2022.

Due to public concerns the Niger Delta Affairs Ministry who handed over the supervision of the road to the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing early this year wrote to inform the Minister of Works and Housing of their decision to do some remedial works on the road through the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

However, based on advice of Directors from Federal Ministry of Works and Housing who inspected the road last month and discovered that its cardinal problem is lack of drainage, Fashola decided that a permanent and holistic approach should be taken so that the problem is put to rest because without the drainage whatever work that is done on the road will not last.

Already request for additional funding to complete the work has been sent to the Bureau of Public Procurement to obtain a Certificate of No Objection (approval) expeditiously so that the work can be completed.

Fashola assured the people of the area and other road users that the Federal Government is committed to the completion of the road as well as other roads across the Nation, this he opined is President Muhammadu Buhari's Administration's priority to enhance impactful Socio-Economic development and therefore craved the patience and understanding of Communities along the East West Road axis.

Jul

27

2022

FG’s Investments in Roads, Bridges, Other Social Capital Projects Aimed at Creating Choice, Imminent Prosperity - Fashola

•    Says Lagos - Badagry Expressway, Second Niger Bridge, Others making rapid progress with dedicated funding

The Honourable Minister of Works and Housing, Mr Babatunde Fashola SAN has said that the commitment of the Federal Government to public assets like roads, bridges, ports, dam and other social capital investments is aimed at creating choice and imminent prosperity for the citizenry.

Noting that the choice would come in form of reduced journey time and better travel experience, the Minister also assured that the Federal Government will complete Lagos-Badagry Expressway, the Second Niger Bridge and other critical road transport infrastructure of the nation soon.

Fashola, who spoke while hosting a team of senior management staff from the PUNCH Newspapers, led by the PUNCH Editor, Mr Dayo Oketola, said that the Federal Government has gotten N16bn Tax Credit Fund for the construction of the Lagos-Badagry Expressway.

Fashola stated that the speed of work on that road, as well as some others, were dependent on the funds available for such projects adding that with the Tax Credit Fund work was progressing substantially on that axis.

Defending borrowing to finance infrastructure, he said, the Buhari Administration has paid over N700 billion since coming into government which was part of the debt left by previous Administrations.

According to the Minister, borrowing as an essential component of public finance becomes necessary in order to be able to respond to the unceasing request for vital infrastructure from the citizenry.

“The public assets – roads, bridges, highways, ports, dams are the social capital investments that the government must make” for individuals and businesses to get on with their life.

According to the Minister, such investments create choice and ultimately prosperity. “All of us know the impact of choice in our lives, if you have to wear only one clothe as against if you have four… You are going to have two Bridges across the Niger, it’s a sign of imminent prosperity, that is what is being done now…”

Explaining that the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration was responding to the infrastructural needs of the various parts of the country through a combination of borrowing and various innovative funding initiatives.

“You are complaining about debt, where do you think, money is going to come from to build the Badagry road? So that is why there was no progress on it in the past.”

He added, “But the reason why there has been an appreciable progress now on that road is because we got Tax Credit Fund for it.’’

On the Lagos-Ota Road, Fashola said the contract sum was over N50bn, “but go and look in the budget and see how much is there (for the road), may be N200m,” adding that with the injection of N7bn this year work progressed on the road.

Speaking on the forthcoming election, Fashola opined that it was important to have the next election focus on the issue of public financing knowledge because often times the nation go into election without debate about funding and to find out where the money is going to come from when aspirants make promises.

"Somebody has to pay for it. It is either debt or increase on taxation or better still through private investment, this, the Ministry is currently doing something in that direction through the Tax Credit Scheme, the Highway Development Management Initiative which is trying to concession 12 highways."

Responding to the question on subsidy, the Minister stated that, what a Nation wants to do is determined by its leadership and that the issue of subsidy would be best addressed by the Nigerian people themselves through their representatives at the National Assembly.

"I agreed that the amount of money that is committed to a single product in terms of subsidy is a matter for concern and I think it is a debate we have shied away from. The matter is a combination of policy and economy and cannot be separated."  He added that if it were simply an economic decision, it would have been removed.

"So, it is the decision of the Nigerian people. If they take that decision, government will implement it," he said.

Earlier, the leader of the Nigerian Punch Newspaper Management Team, an Editor, Mr. Dayo Oketola commended the Minister for the numerous programmes and projects embarked upon since assumption of office.

He noted that The Punch Newspaper will as a medium continue to inform Nigerians and also to educate them saying the organization are partners in progress with the government of the day.

" We believe in the project Nigeria and we pray and hope it will work," he said.

Jul

03

2022

Our Commitment to Infrastructure Development Bearing Results - Buhari

President Muhamadu Buhari has said that the commitment of his administration in infrastructure development across the nation is already bearing results. 

The President spoke over the weekend in Gashua, Yobe State, north-eastern Nigeria during the official commissioning and handover of the completed section I phase II and section II phase I of the Nguru-Gashua-Bayamari road.
 
President Buhari was represented at the event by the Honourable Minister of Power, Engr Abubakar D. Aliyu, FNSE.

“Our commitment to improving road transport infrastructure, our determination to improve the ease of doing business, create jobs and prosperity to lift people out of poverty brings us here today because the results of our investment are manifesting,” he said.

Accordingly, he explained that the road has been built to the highest quality of design and workmanship and if well used and not abused, it should last for the designed service life.

While assuring Nigerians about the desire of his administration to complete all ongoing projects, President Buhari said “I can confidently say that as we enter the final lap of the tenure of the Buhari administration we are also entering a season of completion and delivery of projects.”

The President also cautioned Nigerians to desist from indiscreet road abuses, comply with the highway code, and reminded them to adhere to the maximum 100 kilometers per hour speed limit on Federal Highways nationwide.

“Now that we have this new and well-built road, we have duties to ourselves and to other road users and one of those duties is to ensure that we drive in accordance with the law as stipulated in the Highway Code.”

He listed the road abuses to include: overloading of vehicles which accelerates pavement damage; spilling of petroleum products, which dissolves all the components and allows water to penetrate, and converting the road shoulders to permanent parking places, that brings the onset of road failure from the shoulder.

" Nigerian citizens should do their best to avoid these practices, and to report them when they occur and also act in a lawful manner to stop them" he said.

Earlier in his remarks, the Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola represented by the Director Highways, North-East, Engr Celestine Shawusu, said that the projects represent major investment in road Transport infrastructure, which was a commitment of the Buhari administration as a driver for economic growth and prosperity.

He explained that the projects were visible and incontrovertible assets in proof of what Nigeria’s resources are invested in, from a combination of our earned resources, and borrowings.

Fashola also acknowledged and commended the commitment of the President and his Vice, the professionalism of staff of the Ministry in the delivering of the projects and the support of Ministers in the Federal Executive Council and the members of the National Assembly, especially the Chairmen of the Senate and House Committees on Works in the 8th and 9th Assembly for their support.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Bashir Nura Alkali, represented by the Yobe State Federal Controller of Works, Engr O.B. Akinmade, said that the administration of President Muhamadu Buhari has focused its attention on the completion of several on-going projects to stimulate economic development, create jobs and promote local content.

He explained that it was part of the developmental agenda of the administration in addressing road infrastructural development of Nigeria.

“The focus is to link the major arterial roads to refineries, ports, tertiary institutions and high-volume commercial centers with a view to reducing travel times, vehicle maintenance costs, safety and security of commuters.” he said.

In his remarks, Yobe State Governor, Alhaji Mai Mala Buni stated that the project was both historic and important to the State.

He said after several years of neglect by previous governments, the Buhari's administration has been able to rehabilitate the road for our use.

He said: " the importance of the road to the socio-economic development cannot be overemphasized."

On his part, the Emir of Bade, Alhaji Abubakar Umar Suleiman thanked President Buhari and said that ten years ago, journey from Nguru to Gashua usually takes them about two and half hour, but they now make the journey in less than forty-five minutes. "This has facilitated movement of goods from our farms to the market thereby boosting our economic activities," he said.

A road user by name Abubakar Babaginda commended Federal Government for the road saying travel time has reduced drastically. " Before now we find it difficult to ply this road, we spend many hours to get to Gashua due to the bad road, but now we spend fewer time. We are grateful, " he said.

Jul

02

2022

Remarks by The Honourable Minister of Works and Housing, Mr Babatunde Fashola, SAN represented by the Director Highways North East Celestine Shawusu at The Project Completion and Hand Over on Saturday 2nd July, 2022 at Gashua Town, Yobe State 

On behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria and President Muhammadu Buhari, I bring good tidings to the people and Government of Yobe State, who will be impacted by the Nguru-Gashua-Bayamari Road that our President will hand over today.
My principal message to you all is that this is the first of the second phase of project Completion and Handovers our country will be witnessing as we progress further in this season of completion and impact which started in the last quarter of 2021. 

In this second phase of completion Mr. President has also approved that Ministers from the various States where projects have been completed should represent him to perform the handover formalities.

The other handing over formalities that will follow these formalities Yobe will be in:
a)    Delta for Isoko Ring Road Section II covering Aviara – Uzere; and
b)    Gombe for Phase II of the Gombe – Numan –Yola Road covering Gombe – Kaltungo.
These projects represent major investment in road Transport infrastructure, which is a commitment of the Buhari administration as a driver for economic growth and prosperity.

They are visible and incontrovertible Assets in proof of what Nigeria’s resources are invested in, from a combination of our earned resources, and borrowings.

This occasion affords the opportunity to restate that in addition to other innovative sources of funding, our Budgetary provisions are also being diligently applied to complete projects such as these.
I want to express deep gratitude to the Ministry of Finance, and the members of the National Assembly, especially the Chairmen of the Senate and House Committees on Works in the 8th and 9th Assembly for their support.
To our staff and contractors who have worked very hard to bring these projects to conclusion I also say thank you, as I cannot fail to acknowledge the cooperation of the host communities where these projects pass through or are hosted.
I hold them out as examples of what peace can achieve, and the investments that collaboration and some sacrifice can deliver if we embrace partnership with Government.
Ladies and Gentlemen, none of these would have been possible without the support of Ministers in the Federal Executive Council during debates over the projects.
To all Ministers in the first term and this current term, I express gratitude on behalf of the Ministry of Works and Housing for your support. 
To the President and Vice President who preside for long hours over the Council meetings, your leadership is now bearing fruits and the evidence of change is now manifesting.
Ekiti/Osun, Jigawa, Delta, Nasarawa and Gombe, among several other States bearing witness and there is more to come. 
Thank You.

BABATUNDE RAJI FASHOLA, SAN
MINISTER OF WORKS AND HOUSING

Jul

02

2022

FG Committed to The Completion of Abuja - Kaduna - Kano Road - Engr, F. Esan

The federal government has reiterated its commitment towards the completion of the Abuja - Kaduna-Kano Road phase 2 & 3 soonest.

The Director of Highway Construction and Rehabilitation, Engr. Folorunso Esan stated this while inspecting the road construction by Messrs Julius Berger Nigeria Ltd on Friday 1st July, 2022.

Esan confirmed that the two sections, section 1 & 2 of the road are the major concentration now while section 1 will take of shortly.

"It's the same road and if we deliver a section of the road that means we are done with that particular section as you can see in this section two being inspected and section 3, that means we can concentrate our resources in section one” he said

The Director said the project is being done in phases with the first phase being the 74km Kaduna-Zaria section, which is already nearing completion.

He said that the second phase, which is the 137Km Zaria-Kano section, will be completed in the first quarter of 2023 while the last phase, the Abuja-Kaduna will be taking off.

Folorunso added that the issues concerning challenges which the contractor was encountering in the cause of the work has been addressed and so nothing hopefully will stop them from working and also the   relocation of facilities causing obstruction on the road construction like electric poles has been attended to, noting that the contractor is going to meet up with the contract completion date.

" Challenges are addressed and there is nothing that will stop then from working, another thing is relocation of facilities, for which approval has been gotten by the contractor to remove any obstruction on the site" he said

The Director said he is impressed with the level of work on going, the quality and standard meets FG expectations.

He encouraged them to keep up with the pace and not to hesitate to report any challenge that may crop up at any time.
 
The site manager of Julius Berger Construction Company for section 2, Engr. Theo Scheepers thanked the Ministry who timely helped tackle all the challenges and little hurdles they had earlier encountered. He promised that the contract will be completed six months before the date of agreed completion given them elapses.

Also, for the section 3, Zaria to Kano, the site Manager, Engr. Finn Drosdowki is also of the same view that they are going to meet up with the completion date.

Jun

28

2022

BRF: The Omoluabi Eko At 59

By Hakeem Bello

"What will protect all of us when all is said and done is law and order."
If there is a quiz to guess which Nigerian public servant said the above, chances are most will answer: Babatunde Raji Fashola (BRF).

Yes, of course. The quintessential lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) is not just a champion of Infrastructure development and deep thinker, he is a stickler for law and order.
He is 59 today.

Quite perceptively and against the run of high public expectation, BRF decided to remain president of his home rather than joining the initially crowded train for the Presidency of the country. But without a doubt, his confidence in, devotion and commitment to the development of Nigeria remains ever unwavering.

Indeed, BRF has become a brand name for efficiency, effectiveness, diligence, commitment and tenacity of purpose. The name will continue to resonate long after he leaves public office and whenever and wherever there is a need for devotion to duty, progressive idealism and commitment to Law and Order.

Probably because of his desire to serve away from the mainstream leadership - which agrees perfectly with his often-stated philosophy of commitment to service to one’s fatherland even “without a title or an office" - his engagements with the public will continue to revolve around the preoccupation with the attainment of a better society, governed by law and order, for all.

Just as Gabfest, a youth-focused conversation platform created in 2016 to commemorate BRF's birthday. This year's edition will explore the theme, “Why am I Voting?”

This topic which agrees significantly with the mood of the nation, currently undergoing the processes leading to the 2023 General Elections, will seek to examine the motivations of a cross-section of Nigerians behind their electoral choices.
During Gabfest 6, carefully selected panelists will interrogate their personal desires and expectations in relation to the Nigerian elections. Is their focus on transparency? Is it on better power or healthcare? Is potable water their challenge? Do they intend to vote across party, gender or ethnic lines? Have they voted in the past and for what position? These are just some examples of the questions that will hopefully yield a robust and lively discussion.
Having addressed such testy questions as, “Restructuring for a Better Life – Lessons from Brexit” and “What can the President Do for me?” in previous public lectures, you can trust Mr Fashola for encouraging a discourse on such a simple yet challenging question as “Why am I Voting?”

Perhaps as a prelude to this and a proof of his avowed commitment to the essence of performing basic civic obligations and maintaining order to keep society functioning optimally, Fashola in a virtual presentation he made recently at a symposium in Lagos with the theme, “Driving and the Nigerian in You” interrogated the nexus between individual conduct and public well-being.

In the presentation, he sought to graphically illustrate that it is neither solely the failure on the part of government nor lack of good roads that cause traffic jams or road mishaps on the nation’s highways and intra-city roads but the non-compliance to Law and Order by some members of the public including even the supposed law enforcers in some instances.

According to him, “We are converting what we built for traffic movement into other uses. It is totally against traffic and all other kinds of laws. So, I still say that traders cannot trade on our streets, buses cannot park on the sidewalks. Pedestrians must leave the roads. They must remain on the sidewalks that separate pedestrians from motorists. If these things happen, we will leave the stress, the tensions, accidents and the deaths that we experience as a result of those anomalies.”

The point must, perhaps, be made here that in advocating the adherence to Law and Order by the citizens, BRF has not in any way tried to shield the elite and the leadership from the guilt of infractions of law and order in their duties.

As a matter of fact, there are very many occasions when in his tour of duties as Governor or Minister, he had personally enforced the law, especially traffic laws, on government officials including high ranking police and army officers.

But he, however, maintains that it is incumbent on all citizens to insist on the compliance to Law and Order whenever their rights are being infringed upon by political office holders and those in positions of leadership.
And to prove his earlier assertion that 87 percent of road crashes in the country are caused by human factor, he showed an abridged version of the 2021-April 2022 monthly reports of road crashes across the country by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) saying the situation had been so since he had been Minister.

“What I have done is to separate those items which are human causative factors of road crashes and I have come up with 19 of such factors. I listed 13 of these factors which cause up to 87 percent of road crashes. And I say if these are eliminated, we would have eliminated by 87 percent the cause of road crashes,” he said.

Fashola, who cautioned against indiscriminate donation of motorcycles and tricycles to illiterate youths by politicians and elites in society in what they refer to as “Empowerment”, added, “We see a lot of motorcycles now inflicting pains on our lives. But who are the biggest donors of this Korope and Maruwa (Tricycles)? …Politicians, government officials and the elite; they call it empowerment...”

Saying all Nigerians have a role to play in bringing about law and order in the country, the Minister recalled an incident in Lagos, when he was State governor, when a citizen, Lanre Adio, insisted on his right of way to Lagos Mainland when a convoy of buses driving against traffic tried to force him out of the way, thereby causing a serious traffic jam on the Third Mainland Bridge.

“I had finished my work in Alausa one day and we were heading to the Island on Third Mainland Bridge. Normally at that time on a normal day, traffic would be light on the Island-bound traffic from Alausa. But this night the traffic was heavy. And as we inched towards it, I had to send some of our security details to go and see what was happening; and you can bet or imagine what happened,” the Minister narrated.

“Citizen Adio was driving with his daughter on the Mainland-bound side heading for the Oworonsoki end of the road. They were on their right side of the traffic and they were heading home when a long convoy of vehicles, including a public transporter who was driving against traffic was asking those who had the right of way to leave. Many left, but Citizen Adio was scandalised so he refused to leave.”

Fashola said in his presentation that despite invectives thrown at him by passengers in the offending bus, the man stood his ground till he arrived the scene and used his power of law enforcement “to force all the convoy back, made some arrests and then set Citizen Adio on his way.”

Posing the question, “Are we ready to act like Citizen Lanre Adio?” he asked his audience and proceeded to list more of the ways through which the high and the low contribute to dysfunctionality in society. “So, we must bring all of these to bear on ourselves. What will protect all of us when all is said and done is law and order, for the rich and the poor. We cannot trade on the streets, we cannot have big men driving unregistered vehicles or they cover their name plates and we cannot identify who did what with the vehicle. It makes crime detection very difficult. And at the end of the day it is just Law and Order.”

Rooted in the evergreen definition that “Law and Order exists for the purpose of establishing justice,” BRF has, in his now nearly two decades of public service, preached and led by example the essence of Law and Order as a foundation on which the sustainable development and progress of any nation could be laid.
He has continually built on this philosophy, perhaps with the consciousness, without doubt, that when Law and Order fail to establish justice “they become the dangerously structured dams that block the flow of progress”.

So, what has all this got to do with the coming General Elections, and what is the relation to the topic of the Sixth Gabfest. The truth of the matter is that this election will afford the people of Nigeria the opportunity to choose leaders that will maintain Law and Order and the Rule of Law.

With political parties waiting to begin official campaigns in earnest, BRF could only mean that any conversation involving compliance to Law and Order must involve everyone, including those aspiring to political leadership and those entrusted with the enforcement of Law and Order.

And if the topic, “Why am I Voting?” could also be expanded to read “Why am I voting for Candidate A or Candidate B,” then the question challenges all electorate to interrogate their true reason and motives for voting any aspirant to the position of leadership. Can such aspirants fulfill the yearning for security, peace, unity and good governance?

In that virtual presentation, BRF also spoke of the importance of continuity in governance especially good governance and knowledge and understanding of leadership. Citizens, he said, must not only appreciate good governance when they experience one but must also insist on it under any leader that emerges after the elections.

He elaborates on this by recalling the investments as Governor of Lagos State for two terms of eight years.
“When I look back to some of the investments that we made in Lagos and also across Nigeria; the Drivers’ Institute and training schools set up to train people to improve productivity, to set order and separate motorists from motorcyclists and all that, it is really a matter of regrets that we are still where we are. Many of the gains have been rolled back,” he said.

Stretched further, the topic, “Why am I Voting?”, could also mean that citizens must be ready to challenge their leaders when they are derailing from the path of good governance; when they deliberately tow the path of negligence in matters pertaining to the interest of the electorates and inclining to situations unacceptable to them.

Surely, as BRF turns 59 today, many Nigerians would wish him a happy birthday as a shining example of good leadership in whose steady hands the legacy projects of the current administration of President Muhammadu Buhari in life-defining road transport infrastructure are making rapid progress towards the finish line. They are also looking up to him for dedicated service to the nation at whatever level he chooses to be going forward with or without a title.
Happy Birthday, BRF.

●    Mr Hakeem Bello, FNGE, is Special Adviser, Communications
          to the Hon. Minister

Jun

23

2022

FG Commissions Lafia -Obi -Awe-Tunga Road in Nasarawa State.

President Muhammad Buhari, today commissioned the Lafia -Obi - Awe-Tunga Road in Nasarawa State.

The 118km road links Lafia - Obi -Awe towns of Nasarawa State in the North Central region of Nigeria with the Tunga extension linking Taraba state.

The President while commissioning the road said, "As you can all see, we are handing over today a 118-kilometre Road, which links the towns of Lafia- Obi- Awe- Tunga roads in   Nasarawa State."

The President who was represented by the Nasarawa State Director, Raw Material and Development, Dr. Zakari Musa Eladoga, explained that   "Our commitment to improve road transport infrastructure, our determination to improve the ease of doing business, create jobs and prosperity to lift people out of poverty brings us here today because the results of our investment are manifesting, " adding that the road is indeed a statement of economic efficiency and ease of doing business because travelling hours on the roads have been reduced.

President Buhari further advised road users to drive in accordance with the law of high way codes. "Now that we have this new well -built road, we owe it as   duties to ourselves and to other road users to ensure that we take responsibility for the good usage of it. One of such duties is to ensure that we drive in accordance with the laws of the highway codes," he noted.

Speaking earlier, the Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, represented by the Director of Works, North Central, Engr. Omonege Rugba, noted that embarking on roads project by the administration of President Buhari was to ensure economic growth and prosperity for the country.

"These projects represent major investment in road Transport infrastructure which is a commitment of the Buhari administration as driver for economic growth and prosperity," he remarked.

In his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, Bashir Nura Alkali, FCA,FCTI, who was represented by the Controller of Works,  Nasarawa State, Engr. Daikwo Idah disclosed that this  project has created both  direct and indirect jobs as well as provided social and economic benefits  for the citizens.

In his goodwill message, the Governor of Nasarawa State, Engr.  Abdullahi Sule, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Akabe, while expressing appreciation to President Muhammadu Buhari for the rehabilitation of the road, disclosed that travelling period from Obi to Lafia which used to be about one and a half hour has been reduced to 30minutes journey.

Jun

23

2022

FEC Approves Funds for The Revised Estimated Total Cost for The Rehabilitation of Yola-Hong-Mubi Road in Adamawa State and The Reimbursement of Funds Expended for The Construction of Federal Roads by The Yobe State Government

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) presided over by President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, on Wednesday 22nd June 2022, approved the rehabilitation of the Yola-Hong-Mubi Road in Adamawa State, as well as the reimbursement of funds expended for the construction of Federal roads by the Yobe State Government.

The council approved the revised estimated total cost for N29,826,449,000.00 thereby revising the initial contract from the original N21,841,578,000.00 to N51,668,027,000.00, and an additional period of Twenty-four (24) months for completion of the Yola – Hong – Mubi road in Adamawa State.

In a similar development, Yobe State Government undertook the construction of five (5) Federal Roads: Rehabilitation/Construction of Kaliyari-Bayamari-Geidam, 109km road, Rehabilitation/Construction of Gashua-Yusufari 31km Road, Rehabilitation/Construction of Damaturu – Buni – Magza 77km Road, Rehabilitation/Construction of Nguru – Machina 57km road and Rehabilitation/Construction of Katarko Bridges (4 spans Bridge) to the tune of N20,942,211,672.25 being expenditure incurred for the rehabilitation of the five (5) projects. The Federal Executive Council, however, approved the total Sum of N18,663,843,119.39 following a thorough review and issuance of a certificate of no objection by the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP).

The Yola-Hong-Mubi Road connects Yola, the capital and administrative center of Adamawa State to Mubi town, enabling the movement of people and goods. Similarly, the roads constructed in Yobe state will go a long way to better the lives of the affected communities.

The public will recall that on Wednesday 15th June 2022, the Federal Executive council had approved the award of contract for the rehabilitation of Kashimbila – Takum – Chanchanji road in Taraba state. These approvals are all aimed at facilitating the reconstruction of infrastructure in the North East areas of the country that were impacted by the Boko haram insurgency, and giving Nigerians a better lease of life.

Jun

21

2022

WELCOME ADDRESS BY THE PERMANENT SECRETARY, FEDERAL MINISTRY OF WORKS AND HOUSING, BASHIR NURA ALKALI, FCA, FCTI  AT THE COMMISSIONING OF ISOKO RING ROAD IN DELTA STATE ON TUESDAY, 21st JUNE, 2022.

PROTOCOLS

       It is my great pleasure to welcome you all to this significant event in the affairs of our National life. I welcome all the eminent and distinguished invited guests to the occasion of the commissioning of the second phase of the completed roads across the country. 

2.   On behalf of the Honourable Minister Babatunde Raji Fashola SAN, Directors and Head of Units, Federal Ministry of Works & Housing, I welcome all distinguished invited Guests, the Royal Fathers and the entire people of Delta State to this event.

3.    As part of President Muhammadu Buhari’s developmental agenda of addressing road infrastructural development across the length and breadth of Nigeria, the Federal Government as a policy direction focused on the completion of several on-going projects to stimulate economic development, job creation and promoting local content. The focus is to link the major arterial roads to Refineries, Ports, tertiary institutions and high volume commercial centres with a view to reducing travel times, vehicle maintenance costs, safety and security of commuters etc.

4.    The Ministry has successfully completed several roads and maintained several bridges to ensure that road users have a rewarding road travel experience. Several other roads and bridges are at various stages of completion such as the 2nd Niger Bridge and its approach road, Dualization of Abuja-Kaduna-Kano, Loko-Oweto Bridge linking Nasarawa to Benue States, Dualization of Enugu-Portharcourt Expressway, Bodo-Bonny Brigde, Lagos-Ibadan Dualization project, to mention just a few. 

5.     We have now entered the season of completion and handover of several roads and bridges projects across the country. Recently, 5-roads were commissioned by Mr. President who was represented by the Cabinet Ministers from the states where the projects were sited such as:
Commissioning of Sokoto-Tambuwal-Jega-Kotangora-Makere Road, Phases I&II in Kebbi State;
Vandeikya-Obudu Cattle Ranch Road Phases I&II in Benue State;
Nenwe-Oduma Road Sections I&II in Enugu and Ebonyi States;
Kano-Maiduguri Section III (Azare-Potiskum) in Bauchi/Yobe States; and
Kano-Maiduguri Road Section II Shuwarin-Azare, with spur from Dutse to Kwanar Huguma in Jigawa/Bauchi States.

6.   In this phase of the commissioning, Mr. President approved the commissioning of the following roads:

Rehabilitation of Efon Alaaye-Erinmo-Iwaraja Road In Ekiti/Osun States;
Isoko Ring Road in Delta State; 

Rehabilitation of Hadeija-Nguru Road, Phase II CH 40+000-CH 73+150 Kirikasama-Nguru in Jigawa State;
Completion of Gombe-Numan-Yola Road Phase II (Gombe-Kaltungo) in Gombe State; 
Construction of Nguru-Gashua-Bayamari Road Section II, Phase I, (Gashua-Bayamari), Yobe State;
Rehabilitation of Nguru-Gashua-Bayamari Road Section I (Nguru-Gashua) Phase II in Yobe State;
Rehabilitation of Lafia-Obi-Awe-Tunga Road in Nasarawa State.

7.    As we complete the commissioning of this road here in Delta State, the train will move to Jigawa State, Nasarawa State and on to the others.

8.    Our joy is that Nigerians are benefitting from the fruits of democracy and the promises made by the present Administration. These projects have created direct and indirect jobs as well as provided socio-economic benefits that the magnitude of such projects carries with it.

9.    At this juncture, I welcome you all once again to the commissioning ceremony of this laudable road project in Delta State.  

Thank you and God bless you.

Jun

21

2022

FG Commissions and Hands Over Isoko Ring Road

The Federal Government has commissioned a number of road projects under its second phase of projects completion across the country   tagged “Season of Completion and Delivery of Projects” which include: the Efon -Alaaye -Erinmo –Iwaraja Road linking Ekiti and Osun States as well as Hadejia-Nguru –Gashua road linking Jigawa and Yobe States within the month of June 2022.

The projects are expected to create easy transportation, ease of doing business and reduction in accident rate in the country.

At the commissioning and handing over ceremony of   Isoko Ring Road II covering Aviara – Uzere in Oturu -Uzere Community, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State, President Muhammadu Buhari who was represented by the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Barr. Festus Keyamo said, “Our commitment to improving the ease of doing business, create jobs and prosperity to lift people out of poverty brings us here today because the results of our investment are manifesting."

President Buhari remarked, “I can confidently say that as we enter the final lap of the tenure of the Buhari administration we are also entering a season of completion and delivery of projects.”

The Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, SAN who was represented by the Deputy Director Highways South-South Ministry of Works and Housing Engr. Peter Umoren said,” My principal message to you all is that this is the first of the second phase of projects completion and handovers our country will be witnessing as we progress further in this season of completion and impact which started in the last quarter of 2022."

“In this second phase of completion Mr. President has also approved that Ministers from various states where projects have been completed should represent him to perform the handover formalities. These   projects represent major investments in road transport infrastructure, which is a commitment of the Buhari administration as a driver for economic growth and prosperity," he said.

Earlier the  Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of  Works and Housing, Mr.Bashir Nura Alkali who was represented by the Federal Controller of Works Delta State, Engr.Jimoh Olawole, said, ‘’ As part of President Muhammadu Buhari's development agenda of addressing road infrastructural development across the length and breadth of Nigeria , the Federal Government as a policy direction focused on the completion of several on-going projects to stimulate economic development, job creation and promoting local content. The focus is to link the major arterial roads to refineries, ports, tertiary institutions and high-volume commercial centres with a view to reducing travel times, vehicle maintenance costs, safety and security of commuters etc.”

The Executive Governor of Delta State, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa who was represented by the Delta State Commissioner for Works (Urban Roads and Highways), Engr. Omodon Noel remarked, " This event is important because this project underscores the need for strong collaboration between the Federal and State Government in the delivery of development projects. "

He said, " At the peak of the raining season last year, a bridge on the Oleh - Uzere community, this Ring Road being commissioned today became the saving grace that provided access to the community."

In his goodwill message, Comrade Ejoor Uweh representative of the President General of Uzere community expressed his gratitude by saying, "Special thanks to the President and all the people that contributed in one way or the other to facilitate the construction of the Isoko Ring Road to develop Isoko nation   to an enviable height."

The Area Manager of Levant Construction Nigeria Limited, the contractors of the road project, Mr. Ghassan Fiadel said, " Federal Government has invested so much on roads, bridges and infrastructure across this country. This very road is helping a lot in helping people to transfer food, properties within the communities around."

He said, “The payment is not delayed at all within the period we worked on the road. We thank the Federal Government and hope to get more jobs from the country."

A former Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) Secretary, Comrade Emmanuel Uzere who is an indigene of the community said, " With this road we now have the presence of Federal Government in our area. Before this project, agrarian activities in this area suffered a lot, and the road has impacted a lot on Uzere people for good."

A farmer and  an artisan in the community Oghenerobor Ojo have this to say, " We are happy with this road. Before we couldn't get vehicles to convey us to Aviara from Uzere .We needed to trek for two hours but we are happy now we can move our farm produce from farm to different locations. Please , everyone should salute President Muhammadu Buhari for me. "

A transporter in the locality, Aghraghra Francis expressed his joy with the project saying " My business as a transporter has improved because I no longer have issues with movement of goods and services due to impassable road."

Jun

18

2022

Speech by President Muhammadu Buhari Represented by The Honourable Minister of Water Resources, Engr Suleiman Adamu at The Commissioning and Handover of Hadeija – Nguru Road, Phase II (Kirikasama-Nguru) in Jigawa State on Saturday 18th June, 2022.

On behalf of the Federal Government and President Muhammadu Buhari, I bring best wishes to the Government and people of Jigawa State.

Our commitment to improving road transport infrastructure, our determination to improve the ease of doing business, create jobs and prosperity to lift people out of poverty brings us here today because the results of our investment are manifesting.

I can confidently say that as we enter the final lap of the tenure of the Buhari administration we are also entering a season of completion and delivery of projects.

As you can all see, we are handing over today the 33 Kilometre Road, which links Hadeijia-Kirikasama in Jigawa State. A very important Road that connects agrarian and trading communities to ease the movement of their farm products.

By linking these communities together, this road becomes a critical component of our national road network.

This road has been built to the highest quality of design and workmanship and if is well used and not abused, it should last for the designed service life.

Road abuse takes many forms such as overloading of vehicles and trucks which accelerates pavement damage, spilling of petroleum products, which dissolves all the components and allows water to penetrate, and converting the road shoulders to permanent parking places, that brings the onset of road failure from the shoulder.

We must all do our best to avoid these practices, report them when they occur and act in a lawful manner to stop them.

The road is also a story of the capacity of our people. The patriotic Nigerians who were employed directly to build this road, the scores of suppliers employed indirectly who are responsible for providing the machines utilized in the construction.

These are not only nation builders to whom we offer our salutations, they are the heart of the Nigerian economy, the micro, small and medium enterprises that drive our economic growth.

This road is also a statement of economic efficiency and ease of doing business.

This is because the travel time before construction has now reduced since the completion of the road.
Of course, this road is part of our many roads to prosperity because reduced journey times means reduced expense on travel, because time is money.

This road also symbolizes change as you will observe in the road furniture, such as the lane markings and Route Assurance signs.

These components had all but disappeared on our highways but our commitment to change has restored them, with the markings helping drivers to achieve better lane management and control of their vehicles; while the Route Assurance signs provide information about how much further or longer, the drivers and commuters have to travel and the distance to the next village, town or state.

Of course, another element of change is the travel experience on a new and well-built road from the old and previously unmotorable road.

Now that we have this new and well-built road, we have duties to ourselves and to other road users.
One of those duties is to ensure that we drive in accordance with the law as stipulated in the Highway Code.

Accordingly, for the avoidance of any doubt, I wish to reiterate that the maximum driving speed on this and other Federal Highways nationwide is 100 (ONE HUNDRED) KM PER HOUR and no more.
On behalf of the Federal Government and President Muhammadu Buhari, I formally declare this Hadeijia-Nguru Road in Jigawa State completed and open for public use. 

For your safety and that of other road users, I implore you not to exceed 100 KM PER HOUR. 
We want you alive to witness and be part of the prosperity and promise of Nigeria. 

I wish you safe and happy motoring.

Engr. Suleiman H. Adamu
Honourable Minister of Water Resources
 

Jun

18

2022

Welcome Address by The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, Bashir Nura Alkali, FCA, FCTI, Represented by the Federal Controller Jigawa State, Engr. Atewolora Oladele Gabriel at The Commissioning and Handover of The Hadeija-Nguru Road, Phase II (Kirikasama-Nguru) in Jigawa State on Saturday 18th June, 2022.

PROTOCOLS
        It is my great pleasure to welcome you all to this significant event in the affairs of our National life. I welcome all the eminent and distinguished invited guests to the occasion of the commissioning of the second phase of the completed roads across the country. 
2.        On behalf of the Honourable Minister Babatunde Raji Fashola SAN, Directors and Head of Units, Federal Ministry of Works & Housing, I welcome all distinguished invited Guests, the Royal Fathers and the entire people of Jigawa State to this event.
3.        As part of President Muhammadu Buhari’s developmental agenda of addressing road infrastructural development across the length and breadth of Nigeria, the Federal Government as a policy direction focused on the completion of several on-going projects to stimulate economic development, job creation and promoting local content. The focus is to link the major arterial roads to Refineries, Ports, tertiary institutions and high volume commercial centres with a view to reducing travel times, vehicle maintenance costs, safety and security of commuters etc.

4.        The Ministry has successfully completed several roads and maintained several bridges to ensure that road users have a rewarding road travel experience. Several other roads and bridges are at various stages of completion such as the 2nd Niger Bridge and its approach road, Dualization of Abuja-Kaduna-Kano, Loko-Oweto Bridge linking Nasarawa to Benue States, Dualization of Enugu-Portharcourt Expressway, Bodo-Bonny Brigde, Lagos-Ibadan Dualization project, to mention just a few. 
5.         We have now entered the season of completion and handover of several roads and bridges projects across the country. Recently, 5-roads were commissioned by Mr. President who was represented by the Cabinet Ministers from the states where the projects were sited such as:
i.    Commissioning of Sokoto-Tambuwal-Jega-Kotangora-Makere Road, Phases I&II in Kebbi State;
ii.    Vandeikya-Obudu Cattle Ranch Road Phases I&II in Benue State;
iii.    Nenwe-Oduma Road Sections I&II in Enugu and Ebonyi States;
iv.    Kano-Maiduguri Section III (Azare-Potiskum) in Bauchi/Yobe States; and
v.    Kano-Maiduguri Road Section II Shuwarin-Azare, with spur from Dutse to Kwanar Huguma in Jigawa/Bauchi States.
6.         In this phase of the commissioning, Mr. President approved the commissioning of the following roads:
i.     Rehabilitation of Efon Alaaye-Erinmo-Iwaraja Road In Ekiti/Osun States;

ii.    Isoko Ring Road in Delta State;
iii.    Rehabilitation of Hadeija-Nguru Road, Phase II CH 40+000-CH 73+150 Kirikasama-Nguru in Jigawa State;
iv.    Completion of Gombe-Numan-Yola Road Phase II (Gombe-Kaltungo) in Gombe State; 
v.    Construction of Nguru-Gashua-Bayamari Road Section II, Phase I, (Gashua-Bayamari), Yobe State;
vi.    Rehabilitation of Nguru-Gashua-Bayamari Road Section I (Nguru-Gashua) Phase II in Yobe State;
vii.    Rehabilitation of Lafia-Obi-Awe-Tunga Road in Nasarawa State.
7.        As we complete the commissioning of this road here in Jigawa State, the train will move to Nasarawa State and on to the others.
  8.         Our joy is that Nigerians are benefitting from the fruits of democracy and the promises made by the present Administration. These projects have created direct and indirect jobs as well as provided socio-economic benefits that the magnitude of such projects carries with it.
9.    At this juncture, I welcome you all once again to the commissioning ceremony of this laudable road project in Jigawa State.  

Thank you and God bless you.

Jun

17

2022

FG Reaffirms Commitment To Complete Idukpani- Itu - Ikot Ekpene Road In 2023

... East-west Road bridge section iv will be ready soon

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to completing the ongoing dualization and rehabilitation of the Odukpani - Itu - Ikot Ekpene road in Cross River and Akwa Ibom States.

The Director, Highway Construction and Rehabilitation of the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, Engineer Folorunsho Esan made the reaffirmation on Thursday, June 16, 2022 during the inspection of work on the 83 .3 kilometres road being handled by Julius Berger, SERMATEC and CCECC companies.

The Director however called on the State governments to prevail on its people who have structures on the right of way to remove them in order not to frustrate the effort of the contractors so that the roads can be delivered on target since the land belongs to the state government.

Engineer Essan said, " The challenges are mainly on the right of way, people have their structures on the right of way and this will delay the work, the land belongs to the states, they are the owners of the land, they are the ones that can talk to them so that we can have space to work".

He disclosed that funding is not a problem as the road is being funded by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) under the Federal Government Tax Credit Scheme.

The Director expressed satisfaction at the pace of work by Julius Berger and SERMATECK companies while urging CCECC to improve on its pace of work.

The Federal Controller of Works in Cross River State, Engineer Bassey Nsentip said the contractors have the equipment and are willing to work, adding that the road project include five bridges and several culverts.

Engineer Bakari Kehinde and Engineer Joseph Ukpata, site engineers of Julius Berger and SERMATECK respectively also called on the state governments to help in resolving the problem of the right of way.

Similarly, Engineer Esan informed newsmen that the bridge on section iv of the east-west road in Akwa Ibom state will be opened to traffic soon

He said, " The contractor is working on the bridge so that it can open up traffic in order to work on the other side of the road and they are saying it will take them eight weeks and we are taking them by their words ".

He disclosed that the road was under the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs before it was recently handed over to the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing to continue with the supervision and completion

He further said that the east-west road is not yet under the Tax Credit Scheme but hoped that it will be part of it soon.

Jun

01

2022

Suleja - Minna, Agaei - Baro Roads For Completion May 2023 - FG

The Federal Government has given the assurance that work on section II of the ongoing dualization of Suleja - Minna road and construction of the  Agaei - Baro  road will be completed by January  and May 2023 respectively as planned. 

Director Highways Construction and Rehabilitation, Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, Engineer Folorunsho Esan gave the assurance during an assessment inspection of the roads, Tuesday, May 31, 2022.

Both roads are being funded  by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) under the Tax Credit Scheme introduced by the federal government.

While speaking to journalists, the Director Highways expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work. 

On the Suleja - Minna road he said "My impression is  that the contractor is on site making progress and we can see the various aspects of work, the earthwork, the pavement work and even the asphalt laying is going on smoothly, the only challenge is that of security but it's being taking care of with the presence of security agents".

Speaking on the 52 kilometers Agaei - Baro Port road which connects the Lambata - Bida highway, Engineer Esan said, " work is progressing, 14 kilometres have been asphalted, earthwork is up to 32 kilometres and the rest which is about 18 kilometres is still outstanding, but we have the assurance that the work will be delivered on target".

The Director said the road when completed will boost the economy of the Nation and the North Central region in particular as it leads to the Baro Port through which goods and services can be brought into the country and exported to other countries. 

Team Leader of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Tahir Ahmed who took part  in the inspection exercise to asses the quality and progress of work also expressed satisfaction with the work done so far. 

He said NNPC is funding the construction of the roads under the Tax Credit Scheme of the Federal government that allows corporate organisations to invest the tax that would have been paid to the Federal Government into infrastructure development, stating that the work will aid the progress of their business, the economy and improve the wellbeing of Nigerians. 

Mr. Tahir also stated that the roads were among the other critical roads selected to be funded by the NNPC  because of their importance to the economy of the nation through which Petroleum products are being conveyed to other parts of the country.

The contractors working on both sites expressed confidence that the projects will be completed and delivered on target as funding is readily available. 

Some residents of Takalafiya community along Lapai  - Bida road who recalled the hardship and accidents that were experienced on those roads,  praised the Federal Government for the job.

Muhammed Abdullahi said, " we use to see different kinds of accidents on this road, now that they are reconstructing the road we are very happy because we are satisfied with the work going on.

Another resident of the area, Abdullahi Audu said, " We were facing problems on this road but now we have started having some relief because the people working on the road are trying seriously" " Now driving from here to Lambata is done with ease,  before it would take up to 2 hours or more but now it will take only about 30 minutes. Federal Government is trying, we are happy" he added.