PRESIDENTIAL MEDIA AIDES UNDERTAKE NATIONWIDE TOUR OF KEY INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS IN THE NORTH WEST The Federal Government has launched a comprehensive nationwide inspection of critical infrastructure projects, reinforcing its commitment to timely execution, quality standards, and accountability under the Renewed Hope Agenda, with a focus on the North West region on Thursday. The exercise commenced along the Abuja–Kaduna–Kano Highway corridor, where the Engineers’ Representative, Engr. Chukwuma Kalu, guided the inspection team across the completed 108-kilometre stretch extending from Tungan-Maje in the Federal Capital Territory to Jere in Kaduna State. He disclosed that while this segment has been fully delivered, work on Section II is progressing steadily and is projected for completion by November. He observed that the corridor, once plagued by setbacks, is now evolving into a vital artery for mobility, trade, and economic revitalisation. Also speaking, the Senior Project Manager of Infiouest International Limited, Mr. Robert Turner, lauded the Federal Government’s sustained efforts, particularly the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, for the visible advancements on the project.  He highlighted that approximately 80 per cent of the workforce comprises Nigerian professionals, underscoring the administration’s emphasis on local content and capacity development. The delegation further assessed progress on the Nnamdi Azikiwe–Kaduna Western Bypass. Originally awarded in 2021, the project has witnessed accelerated development since 2023. The 21.47-kilometre dual carriageway is strategically designed to ease traffic congestion within Kaduna metropolis while unlocking new economic opportunities across adjoining communities. Beyond routine evaluation, the ongoing inspection tour—spanning multiple states in the North West—is intended to deepen transparency, foster public confidence, and provide firsthand insight into government projects. In a related development, the Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Mr. Sunday Dare, explained that the Renewed Hope National Media Tour will encompass a broad spectrum of projects, including highways, rail infrastructure, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and renewable energy initiatives. He noted that media representatives will document on-the-ground progress and independently assess the impact of these interventions. The tour, which begins with the Abuja–Kaduna corridor, is set to spotlight strategic infrastructure and social development projects that underscore the administration’s drive to reposition the North West through sustainable investments.   ...

FG REAFFIRMS STRONG COMMITMENT TO KOGI ROADS AS UMAHI, DEEDAT PUSH FOR ACCELERATED INFRASTRUCTURE DELIVERY, SECURITY INTEGRATION ACROSS KEY CORRIDORS A high-level engagement between the Honourable Minister of Works, Sen. Engr. David Umahi, CON, FNSE, FNATE, and the Honourable Commissioner for Works, Kogi State, Hon. Salam Ozige Deedat, have reaffirmed the commitment of both the Federal Government and the Kogi State Government to the sustained development of critical road infrastructure across the state. At the meeting, the Honourable Commissioner expressed appreciation for the ongoing federal interventions on major road corridors, particularly the Abuja–Lokoja–Okene axis and other adjoining routes, noting that successive administrations have contributed to these projects, but observing that recent efforts under the current Renewed Hope Administration have demonstrated greater visibility and impact. He further commended the Minister for his prompt visit to Kogi State upon assumption of office, describing it as a clear demonstration of his connection and commitment to the state despite it not being his place of origin.  In addition, he acknowledged the consistent presence of federal teams and contractors on sites, while also pointing out that although progress on key corridors such as the Abuja–Lokoja and Lokoja–Okene are evident, delays in some sections and flyover construction have created traffic challenges that require urgent attention.  Moreover, he highlighted other strategic routes, including Okene–Ajaokuta, Takete–Mopa–Isanlu–Egbe towards Kwara State, as well as the Lokoja–Okene corridor, stressing that they all demand accelerated intervention, especially given Kogi State’s strategic proximity to the Federal Capital Territory. In response, the Honourable Minister explained that the major challenge confronting infrastructure delivery nationwide remains funding, even as the Federal Government continues to intensify efforts to address infrastructure deficits across all regions. He emphasised that the current administration is undertaking unprecedented road construction and rehabilitation works, noting that if past administrations had achieved similar levels of development, the present infrastructure pressure across the country would have been significantly reduced. He also reiterated that all parts of the country are demanding attention, adding that ongoing works are being systematically reviewed and restructured to ensure proper delivery and accountability. Specifically addressing the Abuja–Lokoja corridor, the Minister stated that the road, which was previously in a deplorable condition, is now undergoing extensive reconstruction, with several contractors handling different sections. He explained that a 48-kilometre stretch formerly handled by Bulletine Construction is being restructured under concrete pavement due to funding and durability considerations, while an 86-kilometre section previously executed by Gitto has also been re-awarded and reorganised for renewed construction works. Similarly, he disclosed that additional sections, including a 56-kilometre stretch, are being rescoped from asphalt to concrete pavement after contractors voluntarily agreed to adopt a more durable construction method within the available cost framework. Furthermore, he noted that about 50 kilometres remain, which have now been divided between contractors such as JRB and Trucrete to accelerate completion. In the same vein, he explained that other contractors, including CGC, CCECC, BUA, and CBC, are actively working on various segments of the corridor, with several portions already completed or ongoing under concrete pavement technology. He stressed that this transition to concrete construction is deliberate, as it ensures long-term durability and reduces maintenance costs, unlike previous asphalt methods that deteriorate quickly due to water penetration and inadequate shoulder protection. While addressing concerns raised about national security, the Minister acknowledged the strong relationship between infrastructure and security, noting that poor road networks often exacerbate insecurity. Consequently, he revealed that the Ministry is considering integrating solar-powered lighting and CCTV surveillance systems along critical highways such as Abuja–Lokoja Expressway to enhance monitoring, safety, and response capabilities. He further assured that similar interventions will be extended to other strategic corridors to improve security and protect road users. Additionally, he provided updates on several ongoing and planned national projects, including the Trans-Saharan Highway, which forms part of the President’s Legacy Road Infrastructure initiative and passes through Kogi, Benue, and Nasarawa States before terminating at Apo in the FCT. He also referenced the Makurdi–9th Mile corridor, the Kabba–Ado Ekiti road project, and other interventions under the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Programme, noting that several of these projects are captured within the 2024–2026 budget cycle, with funding already allocated but awaiting full mobilisation or contractor deployment in some cases. Moreover, he urged stronger collaboration between the federal and state governments, encouraging sub-national governments to complement federal efforts by undertaking basic interventions such as stone-base construction and maintenance works, where necessary. He also advocated for the adoption of more durable road construction methods, particularly concrete pavement and reinforced mesh technology, which have proven effective in states where they have been implemented. ...

UMAHI RECEIVES NEW NLNG CEO, ANNOUNCES PRESIDENT’S APPROVAL FOR DUALISATION OF ROAD LINKING BODO-BONNY TO EAST-WEST ROAD The Minister of Works, Senator Engr. David Umahi, CON, has received the new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas, Adeleye Falade, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja, using the occasion to announce fresh approval for a major road project in Rivers State. The meeting, held on Wednesday, focused on the completed Bodo-Bonny Road and the next phase of development that will link it to the East-West Road, an important route for movement of people and goods in the Niger Delta. Speaking during the visit, the Minister revealed that the President, HE Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, CON has approved the dualisation of the 8.9-kilometre road connecting Bodo-Bonny to the East-West Road. The project will be constructed with concrete and will include two flyovers, solar-powered streetlights, and modern monitoring systems. “I have listed that project for the president, he will tell me when he is ready for the commissioning and I will let you know and graciously he has also approved the 8.9km dualized and this time on concrete with two flyovers. We are working with Julius Berger since they are on site, it is more economical for us for them to continue. With the information I’m having from PPP I think the cost is about 150billion because it is a very terrible terrain, two flyovers and solar powered light, tree planting and also some rest house where we will stay and monitor the CCTV.” Umahi explained that part of the funds saved from the Bodo-Bonny Road project has already been redirected to improve the road with solar lights and tree planting. “We made some savings from the Bodo-Bonny and we directed them to use this savings to put solar light and then plant trees within that axis. So, I want to assure you that we work very closely with you and we are not going to be on that project when awarded for more then twelve months and the price will not be reviewed. So make it very clear in our agreement with you and us and them.” The Minister said the Tinubu administration is focused on building durable roads that will last for decades, while also improving safety and boosting economic activities. “I want to commend you very highly and I say that the president infrastructure revolution in Nigeria is quite unprecedented. There is no part of this country that you don’t see solid work going on and we are not talking about just road construction, he is building a road that will last between 50-100years with minimal maintenance and that is what he stands for. For the first time you see road is built, it has solar light. So that people can travel at night and it will increase commercial activity and also safety on the road. He has also directed to start mapping out our to put CCTV on our roads and have viewing points so that response them at every point in time will not be more than 10mins.” Earlier, Abdul Humaru introduced the NLNG team, saying: “We are here to introduce our new managing director and CEO and for a courtesy visit as well.” In his remarks, the NLNG boss, Adeleye Falade, thanked the Federal Government for its support, especially on the Bodo-Bonny Road, which he said is already making life easier for residents and businesses. “Just like Abdul said it is a courtesy visit but it is more than courtesy, we want to take this privilege to express gratitude particularly on Bodo Bonny road. I want to thank you for the support. The road as we have communicated is completed now, we are actually waiting for when you will give us a date for official commissioning but we know people are already using it. The road changed a lot of things about the activities on the Island. I went on the road myself from my office in Port Harcourt. It took me one and a half hours from my office to Bonny that is something that will ordinarily take us four hours.” He also expressed readiness for continued collaboration on the new road project. “We are grateful for the support. We are also grateful for the consideration of that 8.9km that leads into the East west road that enables us to maximize that particular road. We are still waiting for advice, who is going to handle that going forward. We are ready to provide support as well. So, today we have come to show gratitude for the support that we have gotten from you.”   ...