Federal Ministry of Works

Mar

2026

LATEST PRESS

UMAHI DECLARES AN END TO YEARS OF DEADLY TRAPS AND GRIDLOCK ON THE ENUGU–ONITSHA EXPRESSWAY, SETS MARCH 31 DEADLINE FOR REOPENING

The Honourable Minister of Works, Senator Engr. David Umahi, CON has declared that the long-troubled Enugu–Onitsha Expressway is fast shedding its grim past, as the Federal Government intensifies a sweeping infrastructure upgrade across the South-East under the President, His Excellency, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

Umahi made the declaration on Monday, March 23, 2026, during an inspection of ongoing projects in Enugu, including the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway and the Eke-Obinagu Flyover, where he expressed confidence that the era of consistent fatal accidents, endless traffic, and public frustration along the road is coming to an end.

“I’m going round the six geopolitical zones assessing what is possibly to be commissioned before May 29th by Mr President. There are mega project that the President will be available for before May 29th and we mean it,” the Minister said.

Once regarded as one of the most dangerous highways in the region, the Enugu–Onitsha road had for years been plagued by tanker explosions, loss of lives, and economic disruptions. But Umahi said decisive intervention by the Tinubu administration has changed the trajectory.

“Now this route, the Enugu-Onitsha expressway, you recall that when we came on board, everyday, people were talking about this road. There were a lot of tanker accidents, a lot of people died and so forth. But my joy is that the whole thing is a past story, because the President has swinged into action,” he stated.

The Minister disclosed that the dual carriageway, which spans 107 kilometres on each side, is undergoing a major structural shift, with a significant portion being converted from asphalt to concrete to ensure durability.

“It is not only that we are repairing this road… about half of it is going on to be concrete. I have no confidence in asphalt I continue to say it. By the time the asphalt fail we will have 50 percent of the road still intact and if it fails within the second tenure of the president then be rest assured that we will fix it,” he said.

He added that the same approach is being extended to sections in Anambra State, including the head bridge axis, where an initial asphalt design is being replaced with concrete pavement to align with modern highway standards.

“At the head Bridge we have 39k, we’re changing that to concrete so that we can have this coastal road type of road pavement there in Anambra and here in Enugu,”.

Beyond reconstruction, the project is also being enhanced with solar-powered street lighting and environmental features aimed at improving safety and sustainability.

“So that is going to happen but then not only that. We are putting solar light both for the one that was constructed before us and the one that is being done by us. Within the first one week we will have solar light up to this 1km and we continue we are also going to plant trees which is very important,” he added.

The Minister urged the people of the South-East to recognise the level of federal intervention in the region, noting that such attention to infrastructure was previously lacking.

“The people of South East have to be very grateful to Mr President. The reason is that we never had it like this. I was governor for 8 years and I can’t think of any Federal road project in Ebonyi State,” he said.

He also cautioned against divisive narratives, warning that some actors were misleading the public for selfish interests.

“I want to ask our people to be very very careful, there are people that pretend that they are helping us but they actually inciting us against government… we need to know when people are genuinely interested in our case,” he said.

Calling for sustained support for President Tinubu, Umahi described the ongoing works as part of a broader effort to correct past neglect and integrate the South-East more fully into national development.

“Let us allow this man that have started to right the wrong metted on us as the people of Southeast in the past. Let us allow him the next four years and we will be very much fully integrated,” he stated, adding, “To know the revolution that is going on in infrastructure… this is the Biafra we are looking for.”

As a major milestone, the Minister directed that the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway be reopened for public use on or before March 31.

“I have given the controller the authority, by the 31st or before, he should call the press to open this road, call the people of South East… let them know that this road is open for travel and that will be our Easter celebration,”.

Addressing concerns over project costs, Umahi clarified that the Ministry of Works does not unilaterally determine project pricing, noting that approvals pass through multiple regulatory layers, including the Bureau of Public Procurement and the Federal Executive Council.

“I’m not the final authority when it comes to the cost of a project, there are layers of approval, the Bureau of Public Procurement, their own stands and not my own,” he explained.

He maintained that the standard being applied to the Enugu–Onitsha project is consistent with major road projects across the country.

“The same road architecture as the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway and the Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway… so no discrimination with the president, everybody is the same,” Umahi said.

Nov

2022

President Buhari Commissions Nigeria/Cameroon Joint Border Post And Bridge, Reiterates Need For Neigbourliness President Muhammadu Buhari Thursday in Mfum, Cross River State, called for more neighborliness and mutual understanding between African states in order to enhance trade, security and promote development of the continent. The President, represented by the Minister of State, Foreign Affairs, Amb. Zubairu Dada, at the commissioning ceremony of the Nigeria/Cameroon Joint Border Post and Bridge, said the 1.5km project would enhance the interconnectivity of “our people and communities, improve living standards, reduce barriers to inter-regional trade and strengthen border security.’’ “It is with great sense of satisfaction that we are witnessing the official Joint Commissioning of the Mfum/Ekok 1.5km Bridge and Joint Border Post (JBP). Let me begin with commending the Leaderships of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), and the Government of the Republic of Cameroon that worked closely to realize this project, as well as the African Development Bank (ADB) that provided funding for the execution and completion of this 1.5km Joint Border Project,’’ he said. President Buhari noted that the projects will deepen the inextricably linked cultural and traditional fraternal bonds that already exist between Nigerians and Cameroonians living around the border communities. “Let me also underscore that in order to maximize the benefits of these projects, the Nigerian and Cameroonian officials that would be saddled with the responsibility of manning the Joint Border Post, in particular, must act in the most professional manner, as well as in line with the global best practices, effective from today,’’ he added. President Buhari affirmed that the completion of the project had made both Nigerians and Cameroonians living around the area jubilant. “Such excitement symbolizes the resolve of our People and Governments to remain connected in spite of our seemingly artificial boundaries. “The completion and commissioning of this project could not have come at a more auspicious time than when Nigeria has signed and ratified the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Agreement. Therefore, we expect that the commissioning of this Joint Border Bridge and Post will not only strengthen the existing cordial relations between Nigeria and Cameroon, but also enhance cooperation between the ECOWAS and the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS). “Under the AfCFTA, this project has the potential to enhance the volume of economic activities in our regions, as well as facilitate the free movement of persons, goods and services within the countries, along the corridor. It would also serve as a vital link between the West and the Central African regions. “The Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria also expects that this Joint Border Post and Bridge will enhance security patrol and facilitate effective cooperation in this part of our border with the Republic of Cameroon. While expressing our confidence that this project would accomplish the set targets, it is also our hope that it would complement the current efforts of the Governments of Nigeria and Cameroon to combat the scourge of terrorism and violent extremism in our region. “This is important because the activities of violent extremists have continued to present major challenges to the development of our countries and regions,’’ he added. The President said the menace of insecurity had continued to threaten economies, impede the maximization of the strategic potentials of our countries as well as cause political upheavals and menace in our sub-region. “Hence, it is our hope that the commissioning of this project will accelerate the efforts of our gallant security personnel who are already doing very well in securing our territories. “We also pray that this project would enhance the interconnectivity of our people and communities, improve living standards, reduce barriers to inter-regional trade and strengthen border security. We are certain that these projects will deepen the inextricably linked cultural and traditional fraternal bonds that already exist between Nigerians and Cameroonians living around the border communities,’’ the President stated. He noted that the project, which was part of the on-going Nigeria/Cameroon Multinational Highway and Transport Facilitation Programme (NCMH&TFP), will remain a visible testament to the continuing cooperation and good neighbourliness between both countries, as well as Regional Economic Communities. “This bridge, and Joint Border Post, are proofs that when African countries work with African Institutions, outstanding and people-centred cross-regional developmental projects can be achieved in record time,’’ he said. The President thanked all the Institutions and Agencies that made the project possible. “I recall in this regard, that the Government of the Republic of Cameroon cooperated with us in granting joint waiver to the Expatriates that were employed by the construction company that handled the project, despite the global COVID-19 lockdown. The cooperation and support of H.E. President Paul Biya, as well as the Government and people of Cameroon, ensured that this project was completed on schedule. “Let me also extend the gratitude of the Government and people of Nigeria to the African Development Bank for the role it played in financing these projects. Under the leadership of Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, the Bank has become, by all standards, a reliable beacon of support in all matters relating to Africa’s development. Indeed, we are very proud of the performance of the current Management of our continental Bank which has confirmed that we truly have “African solutions to African problems”. “Let me also commend the leadership and staff of the ECOWAS and ECCAS for their untiring efforts in ensuring the timely completion of this project. It is necessary to underscore that visible projects such as these, as well as other critical and life changing infrastructure are the type of projects that the citizens of our sub-region have been yearning to see. It is the hope that under the leadership of Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, ECOWAS will continue to deliver on the expectations of our citizens. “Finally, let me conclude by extending our deepest appreciation to the contractors, CGCOC, that have shown uncommon commitment to the execution and delivery of this high quality project, within a reasonable period. To all of you who have contributed in one way or the other to this epoch–making and memorable occasion, I convey my warm appreciation,’’ President Buhari said. In his remarks, the Minster of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, said the value of the new bridge transcended connection between Nigeria and Cameroon, boosting the larger effort of connecting Africa. He said efforts will be sustained to improve networking among Africans, which ECOWAS and the African Union had been pursuing over many years, with earlier plans dating back to 1969. Fashola said consistency in building roads and bridges will improve relations among Africa countries, where people can drive from Lagos to Mombasa. The Cameroonian Minister of Public Works, Emmanuel Nganou Djoumessi, who represented President Paul Biya, appreciated the contributions of various stakeholders to the project, assuring that the Nigeria/Cameroon relations will explore more possibilities for partnership. ...

Nov

2022

More Jobs Coming as FEC Approves Award of Urgent Repairs, General Maintenance Contracts on Some Roads Nationwide ....Roads include Gorgaram – Guri; Buni Gari – Gulani in Yobe State; Water Corporation Drive and Trinity Avenue in Lagos ....The objective is to improve conditions of federal roads, restoring nation’s road network in line with National Development Plan 2021 - 2025, says Fashola ....Substantial number of jobs to be generated through the projects In pursuance of the Federal Government’s commitment to developing the nation’s road network in the six geopolitical zones, the Federal Executive Council (FEC), has approved contracts for urgent repairs and special general maintenance of some roads nationwide worth N48.519 billion. While presenting the Memo, as one of three considered from his Ministry at Wednesday’s Federal Executive Council meeting presided over by Vice-President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo SAN, the Hon. Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola SAN explained that the aging state of federal roads nationwide has warranted the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency to procure the projects in its Amended 2022 Appropriation. He added that the projects would enhance Federal Government’s objective of restoring the nation’s road network as part of the implementation of the National Development Plan (NDP) 2021 -2025. The roads for which the Minister got approval for the award of contracts for urgent repairs, and special general maintenance included the construction of Gorgaram - Guri Road in Yobe state, in the sum of N40.907 billion, with a completion period of 36 months and the rehabilitation of the 90-kilometre Buni Gari - Gulani road also in Yobe state in the sum of N4.785 billion with a completion period of 36 months. Approval was also received for the reconstruction of Water Corporation Drive and Trinity Avenue in Victoria Island, Lagos State. This was approved in the sum of N2.826 billion with a completion period of 36 months.’ The approvals, which were sequel to the Memoranda submitted to the Council by the Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola SAN, showed that the construction of Gorgaram - Guri Road in Yobe state will be executed by Messrs Mothercat Limited, the Buni Gari - Gulani road will be rehabilitated by Messrs Hikam Engineering and Consultancy Limited, while the reconstruction of Water Corporation Drive and Trinity Avenue will be carried out by Messrs Wizchino Engineering Limited. In terms of creating job opportunities, it was noted that due diligence and post qualification checks were carried out which showed that the companies have the capabilities to execute the contracts with a substantial number of jobs generated for Nigerians. Advancing reasons for seeking the approvals, the Minister explained that “these roads have been reported to be in very bad condition and requiring urgent intervention to enable road users’ access to economic activities along the routes.” ...

Oct

2022

FG Seeks The Support Of El- Rufai On Right Of Way The Federal government has called for the support and cooperation of the Kaduna State Government to ensure that the few obstructions on the road towards the Rigachukwu and Raba road which is part of section 1 of the Abuja - Kaduna - Kano road construction and rehabilitation project are removed so that the contractor can have access to work. The Honourable Minister of State for Works and Housing, Honourable Umar Ibrahim El - Yakub made the call when he paid a courtesy visit on the Governor at the Government House, Kaduna on Friday October, 21,2022. The Minister informed the Governor who was represented by his deputy, Dr.Hadiza Sabo Balarabe that he was on an inspection tour of the Abuja -Kaduna - Zaria - Kano road to assess the progress of work by the contractor. He told the Governor that the work which was suspended at section one of the road due to security threat will soon resume fully as the security situation on the road had improved significantly. He praised Governor El - Rufai for the infrastructural development he championed in the state. The Minister said,"Under the leadership of Mallam Nasir El - Rufai's very dynamic and purposeful government, Kaduna has seen alot of transformation." While emphasising the significance of infrastructure El- Yakub said, " It is an essential part of economic development because economic activities thrive when you have developed infrastructure." Responding on behalf of the Governor, the Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe expressed gratitude to the Honourable Minister for coming to inspect the road. Dr. Balarabe expressed optimism that the construction and rehabilitation of the road will ease movement of people and goods, ease the security situation in the areas and boost the economic activities of the people. Later while briefing newsmen, the Minister disclosed that section 2 of the road which begins from Zaria to Funtua is about 56 kilometres out of which 7 kilometres is a dual carriageway. He added that the contractor has promised that by next month the 7 kilometers carriageway would be completed. He expressed happiness over the quality of work. He stated that the project is being funded under the NNPC Tax Credit Scheme which is one of the innovative ways introduced by the President Muhammadu Buhari led administration for financing infrastructure. El - Yakub also inspected the Rigachuku and Dumbi bridges. He informed journalists that currently only one of the dual carriageway of the Rigachuku brigde is functioning, he however said that the contractor has been mobilised to work on it. He added that the Dumbi bridge is still functioning fully but the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing is just being proactive to ensure that any weakness in the bridge is rectified. Engineer Alex Onaji who is the Engineer's Representative on section 2 of the project said work was progressing on the project and only 13 percent was remaining to get it completed, adding that the contractor was committed to the project. ...

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Nov

2025

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Apr

2017

FG Commends Progress Of Work On National Housing Project

Federal Government has commenced the construction of houses across the country under the National Housing Programme. The construction works in the Phase 1 of the project tagged “2016 National Housing Programme” are at various stages of completion in the six (6) states of the North Central Zone of the country.

The Minister of state works, Power and Housing, Alhaji Mustapha Baba Shehu disclosed this on Sunday 09/04/2017 during the inspection of the project in Lokoja, Kogi State. Alhaji Baba, who was on inspection tour of the projects in the six states of the North Central came to Lokoja, from Ilorin, Kwara State where he had earlier carried out similar inspection of the project.

The Minister stated that the programme which is meant to provide houses for the people and ease their accommodation problem was a fulfillment of part of the electioneering promises to the people of Nigeria by the All Progressive Congress (APC).

According to him, the programme, apart from making houses readily available and affordable for any interested members of the public, would also help to create job opportunities as different categories of people are engaged to work at the construction site of the project to earn a living.

The Minister said the initiation of the programme by the present administration was a deliberate effort to create wealth for people adding that more Nigerians stand to benefit from the 2nd Phase of the programme in 2017.

While fielding questions from journalists, the Minister expressed satisfaction at the quality of job that has been done and advised the contractors to keep it up in order to complete the work on schedule. The Federal Controller of Works, Kogi State, Architect Hajara Enesi conducted the Minister round the 76 units of the houses which according to her is made up of 24 blocks of 3 bedrooms flats, 48 blocks of 2 bedroom flats and 4 blocks of 1 bedroom flats.

The controller also disclosed that a total of 12 contractors had been engaged to handle the project in the state. She stated that the estate, when completed, would be provided with social amenities like the police post, primary school and water supply.

The Architect averred that the project, which is schedule to be completed within 5 months, is expected to be handed over to the government in the next 2 months. Some of the contractors, who spoke to the minister commended the Federal Government for initiating the programme, in which they had been engaged to eke out a living.

They however said one of the problems being faced by them on the jobs is the lack of office accommodation and the need to review the cost of the project in view of escalating prices in the market. They appealed to the government to do something about these challenges quickly to enhance quality performance.

The Minister who was accompanied on the tour by some management staff of the ministry has since left the state in continuation of the tour to Nasarawa, Benue and plateau states respectively.