Oct

30

2023

Works Minister Inspects Lagos Bridges

Minister of Works Engr. David Nweze Umahi was on a working visit to Third Mainland, Carter, Falomo, Iddo, Eko, Marina and Iganmu Bridges in Lagos State.

The Minister inspected the bridges alongside some Directors in the Ministry with contractors on Saturday 28th, October 2023.

Umahi, while briefing the Press, pointed out problems on the Third Mainland Bridge which was built in two sections Sixty years ago by an Italian Company and Julius Berger.

He said the reason for deflection on the bridge was lack of maintenance from the national level, other than the last administration where intervention came from and the State Government especially when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was in office.

The Minister said due to the technicality of the job on Eko Bridge where the Bridge deck would be open, equipment worth one point two million Euros would be imported into the Country that would be used in maintaining the aspect of the bridge.

He commended the last administration's work on the bridge, the bridge suffered two problems. " Eko Bridge suffered two problems such as lack of maintenance, and the bearings eating up, lots of the pair gaps have serious issues but the last administration did a very good and wonderful work."

"Work is on going, it will finish in 2024 because we are pushing for increase in the number of workers and equipment to site, they are doing a beautiful work”. 

Umahi said "Without Eko Bridge, we will not have any truck coming into Island so that is our saviour."

Engr. Umahi, thanked the President and the National Assembly for looking at Infrastructure strategically in Lagos State, the financial capital of the country which has lots of national infrastructure that tremendously add to the country's gross domestic product (GDP) therefore it cannot be neglected. He added.

The works Minister congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his Vice, Kashim Shettima on their victory at the supreme court  and urged the  leaders in the country to put the nation ahead of all interest  and the region.

Oct

01

2023

63 Hearty Cheers to Our Fatherland - Nigeria

1. It is with a deep sense of honour that I express my profound felicitations to the President and Commander-In- Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Sen. Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR and indeed all Nigerians on this grand occasion of the celebration of 63 years of the Independence of Nigeria, this 1st day of October, 2023.

2. This year’s Independence Anniversary is remarkable as it is historic; it is an event that marks the first Independence Anniversary celebration under the administration of a leader par excellence and living legend who made inestimable sacrifice for the survival our nationhood.  We remember with nostalgia the great zeal with which our fore bearers received the Charter of Freedom from our colonial masters on that glorious day and the turbulence that greeted our journey to nationhood till this administration came on board. Today, the Renewed Hope agenda of Mr. President has come with a Divine purpose for the actualization of the dreams of our founding fathers and the aspirations of Nigerians.

3 Although the challenges are well accumulated and humongous, we vouch that with Mr. President who is a man of honour, courage and great integrity, the glory of our nation shall return to its pride of place. We pledge to work concertedly to improve the quality of life of Nigerians and prosper their livelihood. It is a mission that must be accomplished and a determination that requires the cooperation all Nigerians and the collaboration of all stakeholders for us to succeed. Let's together renew our covenant with God and confidence in the Renewed Hope Agenda of our dear President in this onerous task.

4. As we celebrate a new anniversary of our nationhood, may God continue to bind us together in love, unity and faith and may we progress in bounds in our determination to transform the socio- economic narrative of our nation. Please, accept always the assurances of the esteemed regards and best wishes of my family, the management and staff of the Federal Ministry of Works.

Sen. Engr. David Nweze Umahi, FNSE, FNATE, CON, GGCEHF
Hon. Minister of Works

Sep

28

2023

No Issues. One United Works Ministry.

This is to bring to the attention and proper information of the general public that the Minister of Works H.E, Sen. (Engr) David Nweze Umahi CON was at no time locked up in his office nor denied access today, Thursday the 28th of Sept. 2023.

The Hon Minister, in all fairness, had attempted to bring sanity and orderliness to the service by ensuring that services are rendered as at when due to grow the Nigerian economy to everyone's benefit. Therefore,   to imbibe the spirit of discipline, daily Work activities in the Federal Ministry of Works now begins at 9a.m, Mondays to Fridays for all staff while the closing hour shall be 4p.m.

The Ministry's Union Chairperson, Mr. Williams Kuti during a meeting with the Minister, Permanent Secretary and Management Staff opined that the Minister had started on a good note by identifying both the needs of Nigerians in the quest for good and durable roads and bridges had taken a personal inspection tour of most of the road infrastructure in the South West, South East, South-South and part of the North Central and North west geo political zones of the country, more so he has reached out to staff by means of personal welfare during the just celebrated Muslim festival. The Union Chairman alongside other staff during the meeting requested for more staff buses to ease their movement to and from their locations.

In his address the Minister reminded them that we all have to work in unity to be able to deliver Nigeria our dear country from total collapse. The Minister recalled his several attempts at ensuring that things are done right and also that international best practices are respected by all Contractors in the construction of all Nigerian roads hence forth, by this, proper discipline, and respect of the rule of law and Contract agreement ,we can be sure to see roads that can last more than Seven (7) years but rather roads that will last up to fifty (50) years and that is when the Concrete Technology method of building our roads is put to use, this again the Minister assured will create more jobs for Nigerian Engineers, while increasing the use of local content which are in abundance in Nigeria rather than putting more pressure on the Nigerian Naira for the importation of bitumen and asphalt for road construction.

The Honorable minister promised to go to other zones within the next three weeks and see first-hand the problems Nigerians are facing on the road.

It was a fruitful meeting which ended with the Honorable Minister, being given three Gbosas for playing the role of a true Father to the staff.

Sep

26

2023

FG, COREN Collaborate To Develop Nigerian Roads

The FG and the  Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) have both met to discuss the way forward to develop Nigerian roads, the Minister of Works, H.E Sen. (Engr.) David Nweze Umahi CON  represented the Ministry and presided over the meeting while the President and Chairman of Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) Engr. Prof Sadiq Zubair Abubakar, FNSE led the engineering team to   the meeting, the deliberation  was held at the Ministry of Works Headquarter in Mabushi, Abuja.

The Minister in his remarks said “I want to involve COREN and the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) in our road construction. l have gone round three regions of Nigeria, I am very dissatisfied with the supervision of these construction works. It seems that it is only in the South West that there are very capable hands and hardworking Directors and controllers, notwithstanding, will put the same template to use in all the regions”.

“We would like you to join us as COREN, there is no concrete road constructed in Ebonyi that has not lasted Seven years, our recommendation is that most of our highways are  going to be a continuous reinforced highways, this is the vision of the Ministry” he added.

Umahi further said “when growing up in engineering we use to have consultant, consultant would always know that if they compromised their certificate of practice will be withdrawn even at the ministry level, that is the kind of discipline we want to bring on our road infrastructure, there is no supervision in all our projects, like I said other than the South West. Henceforth every project is going to have one senior consultant later we can begin to have other junior ones, like surveyor, geotechnical and material engineers and other road engineers“.

He enjoined COREN to join him in the propagation for the reintroduction of Concrete pavement in Nigeria. The Minister said that no road that was built in this country had lasted more than three to four years even in the Northern part of Nigeria, he said that the roads in the South East are collapsing even while still under construction. The design in the roads are mostly built below the flood plain and the rains comes, and they are washed away, in his words, the Minister said he counted 9 locations that have collapsed.

The President of COREN in his reaction said “having listened  to you carefully COREN  and NSE  will key into these new positions that you have mentioned, the lack of supervision  you talked about, will be addressed, and we  believe that needs to change totally, we will be able to give our own contribution in that respect”.

He said “COREN   has been restructured, we now have, six Regional offices, with Lagos as a special Region, and then the  thirty six state offices with desk offices with seven departments, these  will play key roles in this supervision, we have developed  a protocol  to engage our members. l believe we are going to play a positive role when we develop modalities on how this will be worked out“.

“ln the aspect of seven professionals per project we are going to look at that and also contribute, the introduction of reinforced concrete, there is a ministerial committee with this ministry which have been working on the specification. l am the chairman of that committee with senior expert along with the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of FERMA and others in the next one month we will make the submission and  interim report to you, that should be the first point of engagement which  will expand the horizon for us to this new agenda of concrete road pavement” he said.

Sep

23

2023

Minister of Works Inspects Pilot Concrete Road Project in Cross River State, Enumerates Its Benefits

.....“Let me use this opportunity to debunk reports that I refused to sign certificate of contractors” - Umahi.

The Honourable Minister of Works H.E. Sen (Engr) David Nweze Umahi  while rounding off his tour of the South-South Federal highways and bridges, also  inspected a pilot concrete road  project  that was constructed by the Cross River State Government in Calabar on Friday.

The technology was borrowed from one of Works Minister’s constructed roads in Ebonyi State during his tenure as Governor of the state, the Minister also used the opportunity to highlight the huge benefits and importance of the construction of concrete roads in Nigeria.

During the inspection of the concrete road along Nyong Edem Street in Calabar South , Umahi said “ this pilot project is being initiated by the Governor of Cross River State and this is what we are talking about and I want the press people to see it, in the next 50 to 60 years nobody will touch this road , it  has  being a pilot project from the Governor and his very hard working Commissioner, I want to encourage him to use this concrete to do all his road works and he will not have any regret weather there is rain or sun, this road will continue to remain the way it is and this is what we are talking about “, adding that “ a lot of failures on our roads is because of the method of construction , so I commend the Governor for this bold initiative and I want him to expand it to all his roads”.

The Minister used the opportunity to highlight   the benefits of concrete roads as follows; it lasts up to 50years, cheaper than asphalt, concrete roads contract can be determined without increase in price , It will lift the pressure on the naira as there won’t be need for bitumen importation, nothing less than 10 companies have indicated interest in opening cement factories , it will create jobs , no expatriate is doing the job but local people through direct labour, we are developing our engineering profession , allowing local content by  allowing local engineers to practice what they have learnt  and it will create expansion of the existing cement companies to 90%  from the current 30%.

While responding to allegation of refusal to sign contract certificate, the Minister said “let me use this opportunity to debunk the report that I refuse to sign certificate of contractors and that contractors are dying.

That's not the truth, l am signing the certificates that I am convinced that are all right   but when a project is N34b and is jerked up to N120b or a project that is N44b is jerked up to N126b, I am a civil engineer I have been on this for 30years or more and I am a member of Nigeria Society of Engineers, as a professional anything you sign, you have to know and you have to take responsibility for it “.

Umahi said “ I won’t sign anything I cannot defend, I have told Mr. President this and he is supporting me , so those whose certificates are clear and ok, I have signed, those whose roads have failed I will not sign, they have to go and fix the road back. That is the truth, they say I am signing a certificate for contractors that big men are behind, the only big man before me is God Almighty and Mr. President.“

The Governor of  Cross Rivers State Senator (Prince) Bassey Otu in his remarks said to the Minister “I am so glad today that we have such an action Minister , We started this pilot project as a matter of fact we borrowed this technology from Ebonyi because when we checked the cost and the durability and sustainability we came to the conclusion, we have to do something very economical but beneficial to the people , we are going to replicate this in many localities in as much as you give us your support”.

The Commissioner for Works, Cross River State, Hon. Pius Edet in his appreciation of the Minister's visit said “Your Excellency I want to thank you very much for coming as the proponent of Modern Construction facility in Nigeria, as a proponent of concrete pavement, we felt that it will not be fair to allow you leave without seeing one of your theory being implemented. We pray that God gives you more wisdom and ideology for the success of our country”.

Sep

21

2023

FG Will No Longer Accept Road Contract Certificate for Payment Generated by One Person – Umahi

.....No one will make unnecessary request during road construction – Eleme LGA Chairman.

The Honourable Minister of Works H.E Sen (Engr) David Nweze Umahi has remarked that the Federal Government will no longer accept road contract certificate for payment generated by one person, he made this statement while inspecting some roads within Rivers and Akwa Ibom States on Wednesday.

He said “No longer will certificate for payment be generated by one person, contractor must sign it, resident engineer as well. state controllers, regional controllers, and they will all endure inspections are done, state Commissioners of Works shall generate work done, prepare the certificate with calculations and geotechnical reports, sketches and valuation, then they will bring it to me, the moment I see that things are working I will sign within 6hours”.

“I have directed that any project that motor users cannot go through the entire length and breadth of the project awarded to a contractor, I will not sign the certificate, contractors must maintain all the roads,  the length and breath within their contract , I am directing the controllers and Directors of the Regions to ensure between Abuja and Port Harcourt they must fix the remedial works within the next 14days” He briefed the press.

The Minister, speaking further said “how could a  payment certificate be given for a road that has failed and the contractor is on site and you turn around to blame the leaders, who signs the papers ?, you  sign the paper and originate the certificate but I have directed that enough is enough , they must show me how increase in our contracts come about , anyone can sign a paper for them to pay but as for me I will not sign anything that I don’t know how it came about if you want to do ashphalt continue with it but you must sign a performance bond that the road must not fail within the life time of the project , I want Nigerians to know that overloading is not responsible for failure of the road , most of the contractors have jobs in more than ten locations with two equipment so they cannot cope with the volume of jobs”.

The Minister had also   directed that any contractor without COREN Certified Engineer must not be allowed to work, he said any consultant or civil servant that behaved the way they have been behaving their certificate would be withdrawn.

Umahi said President Ahmed Bola Tinubu is determined to end the sufferings of the road users in Nigeria, he said “road is everything to this country, road is everything to Commerce, road is everything to Solid Mineral, Medicine, Education, Agriculture and to Food Security".

The Honourable Minister was approached by youths of Eleme during his inspection for upgrading of four lanes to six lanes for Eleme junction to Onne junction road projects in Rivers State where he promised them that he would work with the youths to ensure that the road does not remain the same.

Earlier the Eleme Local Government Area Chairman, Hon. Obarilomate Ollor who spoke on behalf of the youths said “ I thank the Minister for coming to inspect this road on behalf of Mr President , this bad road has been responsible for the untimely death of so many people and more that ten thousands of vehicles ply this route daily , and from what you have said the youths will cooperate with you to deliver this project and we will not make unnecessary request”.

Some of the projects inspected by the Minister in Rivers and Akwa Ibom states included Aba- Port Harcourt road, Bodo Bonny road, Ogoni bridge, Reconstruction of Abak – Ekparakwa –Ette- Ikot Abasi road and the dualization of the East West Road Section four at Eket By Pass.

Sep

19

2023

Minister of Works, State Governments in Joint Inspection of Edo and Delta Federal Roads.

....."I have just directed that every project must have a COREN registered engineer”- Umahi.

.....Community Group, Driver express hope of having a good road soon.

The Honourable Minister of Works H.E. Sen (Engr) David Nweze Umahi, the Deputy Governor of Delta State, Chief (Sir) Monday John Onyeme and the Commissioner for Roads and Bridges in Edo State Osazemen Ethan Uzamere with some stakeholders toured some ongoing road construction works in Edo and Delta States respectively on Monday.

During the joint inspection, Levant Construction Company that is handling some of the Federal Government Road projects linking Edo and Delta States in Benin were directed by the Minister of Works to do the maintenance work of the construction of Benin – Sapele road at night and that work should start immediately, while the bad spots should be made motorable within 30days.

Umahi said “we have directed them to immediately maintain the road , we are redesigning  the road irrespective of the fact that they have gotten advance payment , we are redesigning the road on concrete , We have agreed with the commissioner of Works and Bridges in Edo State that  the drains should be opened so  that the water can go out  in order for  the contractor to maintain the road, I am giving the contractor  7days to come up with the new design so that we all look at it together”.

The Minister said “ I have looked at the road projects from Abuja to Benin City  , the intention of the past administration all the way from Abuja to Benin City , very wonderful intention I commend the initiative but Nigerians do not have value for all money spent on the roads, I was on the  road for 14hours with all the securities attached to me and if I could be on the road for 14hours imagine what ordinary Nigerians are passing through without security , this is not acceptable ".

"Unless we change our procurement process, this country cannot move forward. I am very happy that Mr President is a man of infrastructure, he is a man that knows how every aspect of this country will be reset, I am very happy about that, and I will do everything within my power to support him” Umahi told the states stakeholders.

He said , “On the side of the contractors there are no good intentions , they don’t have enough personnel that are qualified , I have just directed that every project must have a Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN )registered engineer  to be the project manager for all  contracts for every company on the road and the person must not have less than 15years on road construction and I have also directed that we shall no more do surface dressing on our road shoulders , I have directed that all projects must stop and be redesigned on concrete , the truth is that non of these roads that are built from Abuja to Benin will last more than 5years and that is very unfortunate , roads are failing because most of the contractors don’t do what is  called penetration test , we also have adulterated bitumen , the bitumen imported into this country are adulterated , they should go to Ondo and Ogun State and develop our abundant bitumen there “.

“We don’t want to put anybody out of business but we must develop our economy, they should employ our engineers; material engineers, geo technical engineers, surveyors, structural engineers and road engineers , every project should not have less than seven professionals supervising it for Ministry of Works, we are going to reset our road construction so that the people can smile again under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu” the Minister reiterated.

The Deputy Governor of Delta State, Chief (Sir) Monday John Onyeme after touring  Benin –Sapele –Warri road , Sapele Roundabout , ongoing dualization of  Sapele –Ewu road , Sapele – Agbor road and  Nigerian Port Authority roads in Delta State with the  Minister at a press briefing said to the Minister “ Thank you for coming to see for yourself  the importance of caring to do these roads , I do know that you have been tested , we have no fear that you will do it . We assure you of Delta State support and we will give you 100% cooperation”.

Earlier in Benin, a community group known as Sapele Road Bypass Axis Group (SARBAR), through its Association General Secretary Pastor Moses Omo- Osagiede said “We are happy with the visit of the Honourable Minister to Edo State on road inspection and we do hope that the maintenance work will be done quickly”.

Similarly, a bus driver Mr Emmanuel Felix who volunteered to speak on behalf of other drivers who ply Sapele Road Bypass Axis and the Benin –Sapele –Warri Road regularly said, “we hope with the inspection of the road by the Minister and this team, the contractor will do a good job and not their usual fake road works”.

Sep

16

2023

President Tinubu Supports Concrete Road Technology.

...Nigeria to respect right engineering practices - UMAHI

The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi has disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, is interested in concrete road technology, since this is more durable and fairly moderate in cost effectiveness. The Minister also stressed that the time has come for all Contractors working in Nigeria to ensure that they respect strictly the Global Right Best Practices in Engineering that enhances the durability of all construction work, both for roads and bridges with the best quality of materials being used.

The Minister made this statement during a meeting with contractors handling projects in the North East Geo-political Zone of Nigeria.

In his words "I had recently met with contractors handling road dualization projects and my position on the issue is to take one lane and complete it because of paucity of fund, but with the availability of money they could start the second lane. We can manage with one lane instead of not having anything at all,' he said.

Umahi said, presently we have up to N14 Trillion on-going projects against Eighteen Thousand Kilometers, adding that with the Renewed Hope Mantra contractors should not stay on site more than four years.

The Minister frowned at situations where some contracts have been on-going for 20 years, he said it was not good for the contractors, not good for the projects and not good for the client.

"We are introducing CONCRETE ROAD TECHNOLOGY and some of you are not happy about it. Some are saying it is too expensive but we have to try the both and see which is better.

"In any case, any contractor with an on- going project that is not willing to cooperate with us for a redesign with concrete road technology which with fifty years period free of maintenance, we'll demand for performance bond. The situation and time when roads are built on asphalt and within two to three years the project is back to square one is gone," he said.

He highlighted the reasons for road failure which among others include, poor workmanship from contractors, importation of adulterated bitumen into the country and the laying of less than correct thickness of asphalt.

Umahi said, our people were suffering as a result of poor workmanship and all manner of cheating and we have come to solve the perennial problem once and for all.

"We don't witness this kind of construction pattern in developed countries, you came from developed countries so we are going to respect Engineering Best Practices in Nigeria. We will build a road that is going to last," he said.

The Minister however disclosed that subsequent signing of certificate would be based on status certificate.

Umahi was delighted to inform the contractors handling projects in the North East Zone of the country not to bother to report him to Mr. President because he had already reported himself to him on all issues.

The Minister said he is taking instruction directly from Mr. President and he is interested in concrete road technology.

"He has given a tooth to bite and to bite Nigerians into Good Roads so that they can Enjoy. This will be one of the Greatest Legacies of Mr. President and other legacies he is bringing so that the world will know we are not here for business but we are here for an assignment," he said.

Sep

14

2023

Umahi Announces Intention of Works Ministry to Face Dualized Roads

.....We have N431B ready for contractors– Minister of Works

The Honourable Minister of Works Engr David Nweze Umahi has announced the Ministry’s intention to focus on most of the dualized roads across the country.  He said, “Why we are here now is to announce our intention to face most of the dualized roads in the country.”

The Minister made these remarks while meeting with all contractors handling road dualization projects and all zonal Directors of the Ministry at the Ministry's Headquarters office in Abuja, today.

“I want to remind you that Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) is funding 50% percent of the contract sum and that funding goes up to 2025, “he said.

Umahi said “we have N431B of money that is ready for contractors to clear but there is no certificate for it , if you are doing a job under Phase 1, make effort to make claims , if your job involves augmentation go back to your Regional Director for understanding before I sign the certificate , any certificate I sign now , I have to take account for it even when I have left office “.

The Minister tasked the contractors to stick to one lane if their job has not gone up to 50% completion; he said he had also come up with Performance Bond meaning that all new projects would be guaranteed for 10years.

He urged all contractors that have built roads that cannot last up to ten years to write to the Ministry to either stop work or rebuild the road to last 10years, the  Minister warned  contractors that he would not listen to stories of failures on the roads due to  overloading, he enjoined all the contractors to cooperate with him on building roads with concrete technology as it was done both in India and Singapore.

Earlier, Engr. Umahi told the contractors and stakeholders to key into the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President, he said this Administration has 18,000kilometre of roads and inherited a contract sum of about N14.1 trillion and out of which N4trillion is being paid in all those projects, some of the projects have lasted between 10 to 20years.

The Minister said some contractors have jerked up the contractor sum by hundred percent and that is the reason they are not getting paid.

“We are going back to the original concept of the projects and the necessity of any additional works and also see how we get a fair deal, expecting an endorsement from the Ministry of what is not acceptable to Nigerian Society of Engineers is not possible “The Minister said.

Engr. Umahi also confirmed that “Mr President understands road infrastructure, If I come before him with a contract of N44B reviewed to N144B contract sum, I must be able to provide details of how the cost came about “.

Sep

08

2023

Umahi To Collaborate with South-East Governors in Road Infrastructural Development of The Region.

The Honourable Minister of Works, Senator Nweze David Umahi has expressed optimism that collaboration with the South-East Governors will transform the region’s road infrastructural development, thereby bringing an end to the perennial issue of failed roads and none motorable roads in the region.

Umahi made this statement when he paid a courtesy visit to the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti and his counterpart, the Governor of Enugu State, Barr. Peter Ndubuisi Mba respectively during his ongoing inspection tours of Federal Road projects in the region.

The Minister at each visit listed and narrated all the federal road projects in the state and pleaded for collaboration and synergy to getting the work done which he says will bring development and boost socio-economic and commercial activates in the region.

“We have 11 federal road projects ongoing in Abia state and up to ten in Enugu state and all of them are going on well,  some are on Tax credit Scheme, while others on MTN sponsorship, some others on Sukuk, they all have funding and the ones on budget we will do something about it to make sure the roads are put in use for our people, get us informed if you notice anything wrong and I suggest the appointment of an SSA on federal roads, this will help to get you informed well on any issue that may delay work” He said.

Umahi took time to explain to them FG's new proposal on what it calls Brown Field and Green Field Projects which he noted will bring to an end the issues of dragging for refund on money spent by state government in constructing federal roads in their states, this is rather an easy agreement and transparency incorporated.

“You can do federal roads if you want but no refund for now from federal government because there is no money, but I suggest you key in into what we call Green field or Brown Field Road Projects.  You construct a new road you toll it get your money and we start to share the profit, or you take up a constructed road, to maintain it, you toll get your money and we share the profit, we can talk more on it” he said.

The Minister introduced the use of concrete pavement technology as a better option on road construction in the region considering the soil texture of the region, more so that it’s cheaper, safer and it lasts longer than asphalt without maintenance for a longer time.

“It is safer doing it on concrete and it’s cheaper, Asphalt is good, but it will not last long.  I believe strongly that if we start using it in the region it will help us because water does not disturb it rather it makes it stronger without much maintenance but it's durable having stayed for long” he said.

He pledged his support for states in delivering the dividend of democracy to the citizens and the nation at large saying the federal government came prepared and determined to ensure that a significant milestone is achieved in providing good road network across the nation.

He directed the Federal Controllers of Works in the States to always be in close contact with Governors and must brief them on any project to be executed in the state and also to speak up  freely if there is any challenge that needs state attention.

Also, to check insecurity on the highways, the Minister encouraged the Governors to clear roadsides at least up to fifty (50) meters inside which he said will give a clear vision and feasibility in case of any emergency and can also be used for agricultural crops that doesn’t grow tall.

Responding, the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti welcomed the Minister for his visit which he said came right in time as the new government prepares to embark on some road projects in the state and promise to key into rigid pavement technology.

He congratulated him on his appointment describing it as a well-deserved appointment considering his antecedents in infrastructural development in Ebonyi State and urged him to replicate same in the South-East and the Nation at large, for the benefit of all.

Responding the Governor of Enugu State, Barr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah warmly received the Minister and commended his immediate response to visiting federal road projects in different states across the Nation describing it as desirable.

The Governor thanked him for his innovation on the use of concrete pavement which he affirmed was a good idea that is worth keying into and that he too shall introduce and use it as well.

Sep

07

2023

FG Orders the Completion of Carriage Ways Before Working on Spurs...

The Honourable Minister of Works, Senator Nweze David Umahi has directed the contractors working on Federal roads in the South East Region to concentrate on the completion of carriageways first before working on the spurs to ensure the speedy completion of the project for use.

He made the declaration at the inspection of the construction of the Enugu – Onitsha Expressway in Enugu and Anambra States by MTN Nigeria Communication Plc, The Rehabilitation of Old Enugu – Onitsha Road (Opi Junction – Ukehe – Okpatu – Awhum, Abor –Udi – Oji to Anambra border and many other road construction projects at the ongoing inspection tours of all the federal roads project going on in the region.

The Minister ordered that the remaining portion of the roads still under construction be done using concrete pavement as he noticed that some of the road shoulders are already cracking because the quality of bitumen in use is of low quality and adulterated.

“I will allow the portions already laid with asphalt but the failing road shoulder should be replaced with concrete carriage, I know what I am saying, the quality of bitumen in this country is low and adulterated. We will not give up the fight till we get to the level where after construction, the road stays for 30 – 50 years before we talk of maintenance” he said.

Umahi maintained that the use of concrete technology in road construction is cheaper, safer and reduces the longer time contractors have to stay on site trying to patch failed portions after the project completion, and that with the use of concrete pavement, no one goes back to check if the road is failing or not because road failure when concrete is in use is laughable.

“It is safer doing it on concrete and cheaper, I believe strongly that when a project is so expensive it keeps the contractor a longer time on site because he will keep delaying to get all his payment meanwhile there is no money to pay him so he keeps staying on site doing nothing.

The Minister directed all contractors that have left their site because of payment to quickly and immediately move back to site or he will terminate the contract noting that the monies released already to the contractors from what he was told is supposed to complete the carriageways before requesting for additional money.

“I am optimistic that the money available will complete the work, come with your bill of quantity so we review it and give you proper directive, move back to site immediately to continue your work within 7 days or I terminate the contractor, you cannot say we are owing you and because of that you stop work” He said”.

Umahi promised the contractors that availability of fund is not going to be a challenge when they do their own part.  He added that he will be meeting with the funding partners and the one being financed through appropriation, all will be given attention.

“You said there is no money to complete the project, it is my duty to chase the debt, it is yours to go back to site.  I guarantee that the money will be paid, I will meet with the financers and we will do what we are supposed to do”.

The Minister demanded that the Director Highways South East, Engr. Bede Obioha brings up the entire project for review to see how they will put ideas together to ensure that all the outstanding projects be completed and be open for usage.

During his briefing, the Operations Manager, Niger Cat Construction Company Ltd. Engr. Fadi Mosaad welcomed the Minister and commended the Minister’s directives on the use of concrete pavement saying it’s going to help considering the soil texture and the terrain of the zone.

The projects visited are: Rehabilitation of old Enugu – Port Harcourt Road (Agbogugu – Abia Border spur to Mmaku, Rehabilitation of Oji – Achi – mmaku – Awgu – Ndeabgor Road section 1 in Enugu State, Construction of Ugwueme – Nenwenta – Mkwe – Ezere – Awunta – Obeagu – Mgbidi Nmaku Road in Enugu State, construction of Enugu – Onitsha Expressway in Enugu and Anambra States, The Rehabilitation of Old Enugu – Onitsha Road (Opi Junction – Ukehe – Okpatu – Awhum, Abor –Udi – Oji to Anambra.

Sep

05

2023

South East:  Redesign the Failed Portions with Concrete Pavement - Umahi

The Honourable Minister of Works, Senator Nweze David Umahi has directed that the failed portions of the Enugu – Port Harcourt Expressway Section III: Enugu – Lokpanta in Enugu State should be redesigned with concrete pavement.

The Minister stated this at the inspection of the road which marks the beginning of his South East Road inspection tour scheduled to take place throughout the week starting from Tuesday 5th September – Saturday 9th September 2023.

Umahi reaffirmed that construction work on the federal roads must be done right to avoid coming back to redo an already completed work, he commented on some portions where the binder wearing has been completed but has now failed.

“We noticed a couple of failures in some completed and uncompleted sections, contractors must go back and amend them, I believe that bad asphalt resulted to the failure and we cannot take that” ‘he said.

The Minister pointed out that some portions of the expressway inspected so far needs urgent and immediate attention and directed the Director in charge of the South East geo-political zone, Engr. Bede Obioha from the Ministry to come up with recommendations for the accomplishment of his directives.

“From Km 0+00 left hand side needed immediate attention up to Ozalla and should be amended on rigid pavement and the entire right-hand side also must be on same rigid pavement, Director Highways south East take note.

Umahi commended the contractor for the work done so far and encouraged them to continue to keep the pace and on the issue of finance, the Ministry will do their best to make sure fund is provided.

Addressing the Minister earlier, the Director Highways South East, Engr. Bede Obioha briefed the Minister on the project and also assured him that all the recommendations sited shall be corrected.

The Contractor, Messrs. CGC Nigeria Limited thanked the Minister for visiting the site and promised to work on the failed portions but revealed that the challenge they have is paucity of fund as well as the rainy season, after which, the failed portions shall be corrected.

Sep

01

2023

Highway Inspection: Umahi Meets with Ogun and Oyo State Governors

.....Lagos – Abuja to take four hours journey through supersonic highways –Works Minister

.....You have demonstrated capacity and experience for promising immediate approval for state governments to fix Federal roads – Ogun State Governor to Umahi

.....Oyo – Iseyin road to be commissioned in September – Makinde

Minister of Works Engr David Nweze Umahi CON, confirmed  “Let me announce to you that Lagos proposed 4th Mainland Bridge Supersonic Highway will take four hours to drive from Lagos to Abuja , he said  "we had a presentation on it  yesterday with the consultant , and  it's going to be on Public Private Partnership (PPP)  , driving from Lagos to Abuja will take 4hrs , we are concluding on it within one or two months  and work will start’" he made this remarks  during his meeting with the Ogun State Governor, Princ  Dapo  Abiodun  in his Office in Abeokuta , the Ogun State capital.

Umahi informed  the Governor “ We have a programme called Highway Development Management Initiative ( HDMI) and  it allows states and other Private Investors to engage with the FG either to take over a fully  constructed road to toll and maintain it  in partnership with Federal Government or take a brand new road and reconstruct it and toll it, under laid down agreement, l  am very much  open to that, we also bring some roads  architecture   into this kind of arrangement; solar lights  where we can fix CCTV to monitor  our  roads and   increase visibility, this will  largely reduce insecurity  and also create service stations, we can monitor security at these service stations, we have mini clinics , toll vans at this stations just as we see outside the country.”

The Minister said “it is better to break the law and save the life of Nigerians “.  He told the Governor that any state government that wants to do PPP with Federal Government has his approval already.

“Your Excellency, I am here for you I pledge to my country and to you to align with your heartbeat with the welfare of your people, road is everything when you have good road, insecurity is reduced, economy will boom, trade will thrive, education will thrive road is one infrastructure that will touch every sector of our economy.  Mr President is very committed to fixing our road that will last 50years” Umahi said.

The Honourable Minister explained that when people are suffering, they don’t talk about who owns the road, fixing the road is what they are interested in and that was what Ogun, Lagos and Oyo State Governments were doing,” anyone that is complaining that he cannot fix Nigeria road is playing politics”.

While holding similar meeting with His Excellency the  Executive Governor of Oyo State Engr Seyi Makinde  in his office in Ibadan, the Hon. Minister of Works commended  Oyo government for working on Federal Roads “You have done quite a number of roads and you were not waiting that you must have all  approval before you do it, if we are waiting for due process of refund for working on FG roads, our people will be the ones to suffer. We are excited with Governor Seyi Makinde, we as a government have also done a number of roads” Umahi said.

His Excellency, the Governor of Ogun State Prince Dapo Abiodun, in his reaction told the Minister” I thank you for the remarks you made about how we have been very indiscriminate in working on roads weather they are Federal or State roads, when our citizens are suffering on the road, they don’t ask who owns the road.”

‘I thank you for saying you will give approval to any State Government that wants to fix Nigerian roads, that has demonstrated your capacity and understanding” the Governor said.

During the Minister of Works meeting with the Oyo State Governor, he said “For us If a road is important to our economy we just go ahead and fix it, an example is the road between Oyo and Iseyin, the road passes through our major Agric business hub and for Agro processors in the area, they need good roads to evacuate their products".

FG asked us to follow the Federal standard in building the road which we did, the project is about 34km and shall be commissioned September 15, 2023.

Top Management Staff of the Ministry of Works and State dignitaries were present at both meetings.

Aug

29

2023

Works Minister’s Road Inspection - Section 1 of Lagos - Ibadan Expressway Ready Soon- Engr. Umahi.

Minister of Works, David Nweze Umahi is excited as he inspected the 98% completion of Section 1 of the crucial Lagos - Ibadan expressway in Lagos today.

He said " we are excited with the speed of work, the problem of interchange in Ogun State will be resolved so that we can finish with the issue of compensation".

While speaking with the contractor he said “In our subsequent work, we shall work on concrete road, and if you have any problem let us know so that we can support you".

Director South West Engr. Adedamola Kuti, earlier said " the main carriage way of section 1 Lagos Ibadan expressway will be completed in September while the Lagos in-bound is completed.

The West Region Manager of Julius Berger Thomas Christol in charge of the contraction of Section 1, said " the last kilometre shall be completed next week ".

At the construction of Eleko - Dangote Refinery concrete pavement road by Dangote Company under the Tax Credit Scheme, the service lane being proposed would be taken to Federal Executive Council for approval.

Umahi said “Solar Light should be incorporated and has to be tolled ".

He said by tolling the road and handing it over to private sector to manage, the lighting and security will be managed from the revenue from tolling alongside the maintenance of the road thereby generating revenue.

In his words “this initiative is good and will add positively to our economy, Mr. President is committed to this facility.

Aug

25

2023

"Open Your Mind I Am Here To Help", Umahi Assures Contractors

The Honourable Minister of Works Engr David Nweze Umahi CON has assured contractors working with the Ministry that there is no cause for worry as long as they deliver on their projects. He gave   this assurance during a meeting held in the headquarters of the Ministry with Contractors handling projects in the North West geopolitical zone.

He said " I will not tamper with your job, i will not tamper with your profit, the stake I want to tamper with is the quality of your job."

He reiterated the need to embrace the need for concrete roads and wonder why some contractors are not in support of it despite its great advantage over asphalt in terms of cost and durability.

He added that due to the economic situation occasioned by the strength of the naira to the dollar, it is unwise to continue to resist the use of concrete roads and expressed his determination to oppose such resistance.

The Minister said, “I am ready for a fight with those who are resisting concrete technology in road building because concrete is cheaper than asphalt and more durable”.

Umar also expressed the commitment of President Bola Tinubu to improve the social - economic condition of the people through meaningful innovations.  “Mr. President has promised Nigerians a positive reform that will Foster development and we need to assist him to succeed”.

The Minister disclosed that under his leadership concerted effort will be made to ensure that contractors executed as quickly as possible and the contractors must work with realistic quotation to avoid wastage of funds.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mahmuda Maman who was represented by the Director Highways Construction and Rehabilitation Engineer Folorunsho Esan in his address told the stakeholders that the meeting was called to discuss ongoing road projects in the North West, he enjoined them to feel free to express their feelings.

Nov

03

2023

Minister of Works, Umahi Appoints Barr. Orji Uchenna Orji as Chief Press Secretary.

Barr. Orji Uchenna Orji, Former Commissioner for Information, Ebonyi State, has been appointed Chief Press Secretary to the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi. The appointment takes immediate effect. He was Deputy Director Tinubu/Shettima Presidential Campaign Council, Sub Committee on CSOs 2023. Director, Directorate of Information, Divine Mandate Campaign Council, 2023.

Orji Uchenna Orji Francis was born 3rd February 1976. He hails from Amaedim Ngwogwo, village, Ishiagu, Ivo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

He is happily married to Mrs Ijeoma Sylvia Orji and the union is blessed with 6 adorable children. The trained articulate Lawyer never hesitates to announce that his Next of Kin is his wife.

Oct

03

2023

Concrete Pavement Better than Asphalt Pavement - Umahi

The Honourable Minister of Works, Sen. Nweze David Umahi has reiterated that concrete road pavement is better, cheaper and will last longer than asphalt pavement in the construction of roads in some part of the country because of the terrain.

He stated this at a meeting with Directors of the Ministry held for purposes of clarification by the Minister that the use of concrete is not a cast on iron but has been tested to be better than asphalt. The meeting took place at the Ministry’s conference room on Tuesday October 3, 2023.

The Minister noted that there are a lot of advantages using concrete in road construction stressing  that roads built with concrete can last for 50 years without having issues of portholes or washout, concrete roads have a longer lifespan, it can withstand heavy traffic loads, low maintenance, less affected by temperature fluctuations.

“A lot of advantages accrue to the use of concrete to construct roads, concrete roads lasts longer compared to asphalt roads reducing the need for frequent repairs and maintenance, it’s stronger and can withstand heavy traffic loads, it also has low maintenance”.

Umahi maintained that nobody is insisting that all on going road construction in the nation should be changed to concrete but that can happen under the following conditions; all roads constructed with asphalt pavement must be on concrete shoulder; alternative design on the road shoulder, no shoulder on roads with surface dressing.

“Nobody is insisting that all ongoing jobs will be on concrete, but anyone that wants to continue with asphalt can continue under the following conditions: no shoulder on surface dressing, alternative design on shoulder all road of asphalt pavement must be on concrete shoulder”.

He added that some of the contractors are still working with obsolete and old machines the number of machines on site is hard to get up to 50% of needed machines to carry out the project including personnel.

He encouraged the directors to fill free to come to him for any suggestion or logical argument saying that the mission of Tinubu’s administration is to improve on the road infrastructure across the nation for the good of all.

“I am appealing to our consciences to see ourselves as people going to the same direction and pursuing the same agenda for the betterment of all.  All those in the field are the same with people in the office. Services in the office is what is keeping the services in the site".

Sep

30

2023

FG, In Swift Reaction, Visits Collapsed Artisan Bridge In Enugu.

The new Artisan Bridge located at km 0+800 Enugu - Port Harcourt Expressway between New Artisan flyover /NNPC Mega Station in Enugu State collapsed and the FG represented by the Honorable Minister of Works, H.E, Sen. (Engr) David Nweze Umahi has swiftly visited the site of the collapsed artisan bridge a day after the information of its collapse reached the Ministry.

The affected Bridge was constructed in the late 1970’s and its collapse took place on Wednesday afternoon 27th September 2023.

The failed Bridge is located on a subsisting project (REHABILITATION OF ENUGU – PORT-HARCOURT EXPRESSWAY SECTION III: ENUGU – LOKPANTA IN ENUGU STATE. CONTRACT No.6251) and the project is still ongoing.

Consequently, a team of Engineers were deployed to the affected Bridge location so as to collate relevant data, and investigate possible cause of the collapse and come up with solution to restore the failed Bridge.

It has been recommended by the Engineers on site that the entire collapsed span be demolished, redesigned and re-constructed to avert future occurrences and loss of lives.

The Minister visited the site to access the extent of damage and to also proffer immediate solution to quickly assuage the suffering of both motorist and commuters plying the bridge. Sen. Umahi said he had to immediately visit because he knew the collapsed bridge has been of critical use to the Socio-Economic growth of the entire South East Region, particularly those commuters within and outside the Enugu State environ.

Earlier, the Governor of Enugu state, Barr. Peter Ndubuisi Mba, expressed sincere appreciation to  President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the immediate response  to access the collapsed bridge situation with the visit of the Minister of Works, Engr. Umahi who has also assured the Governor that the Federal Government is doing everything humanly possible to reconstruct the bridge with better quality local content materials which he confirmed had been tested and can stand the test of time of long period of usage and longevity of up to Fifty (50) years with no maintenance when built with Concrete Technology that's what is being advocated for use for Nigerian Roads and bridges with such already pioneer  construction both in the Apapa- Oshodi road, the Lekki-Ajah free trade Zone area in Lagos state, also experience has proved that concrete technology used in Ebonyi and recently in Cross River state by the Governor, Sen (Prince) Bassey Otu are the right way to go in Nigeria.

Sep

27

2023

Happy Eid-El Maulud

1  I  heartily convey my felicitations to the Muslim community  across the nation on this year's festival of  Eid-el- Maulud celebrated all over the world to mark the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) held this 27th  September, 2023.

2. As you celebrate this memorable event, may the joy of the ceremony continue to strengthen our resolve to work for humanity and grant us the divine persuasion to bear the fruits of peace, honesty, generosity, self-discipline and sacrifice which are the virtues of Prophet Muhammad and the values of his teachings. At this moment of our trajectory, the power to overcome our challenges lies squarely on our will to cultivate the best leadership and followership attitudes as that will guarantee our hope in seeing the best even in difficult times.

3. The administration of our dear President, His Excellency, Sen. Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR is on a decisive calculated mission to restore the dignity of our nation and this calls for sacrifice and best attitudes by all Nigerians no matter the language, faith or class. Be assured that the predicaments of the time will soon vanish and our dear country, Nigeria will soar again in the comity of nations. This is the vision of the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President.

4. As we celebrate the birth of a virtuous Prophet, may God continue to bless your endeavours with resounding success. Please accept always the assurances of the esteemed regards and best wishes of my family, the management and staff of the Federal Ministry of Works.

Sen. Engr. David Nweze Umahi, FNSE, FNATE, CON, GGCEHF
Hon. Minister of Works

Sep

25

2023

FG in Discussion with Hitech.....Yet to Award

.....Lagos -Calabar Coastal Highway.

The attention of the Ministry of Works has been drawn to information reported online by nairametrics.com crediting a statement to H.E, Sen. (Engr) David Nweze Umahi the Hon. Minister of works as saying that the: “FG Awards LAGOS -CALABAR COASTAL HIGHWAY TO HITECH”.

This information is totally untrue and misleading.

The general public is to please note and be well guided and for the RECORDS. The FG has only recently opened a maiden  discussion with the Engineering company- HITECH on this project, a  second meeting is being considered to further access the the possibility of the project being handled by them.The Ministry has not awarded any such Contract nor has signed any such Contract Agreement with any company in this regard.

To this effect, media organizations are to please ensure their facts are duely authenticated with the Federal Ministry of Works before putting out incorrect information to the public.

Let's be more thorough in our journalistic activities as the Ministry appreciates as always the cordial and positive reportage of the Ministry's Policies and Programs.

Sep

22

2023

Minister of Works Narrates His Tour of East West Road Experience To Akwa-Ibom And Cross River States Governments.

"...Driving through the East West Rd to feel what people are feeling shows that the right person is on the saddle of operation - Deputy Gov. Akwa Ibom to Umahi

The Honourable Minister of Works H.E. Sen (Engr) David Nweze Umahi, has narrated his experience during the tour of East West road to Akwa Ibom and Cross River State Governments while meeting with them at their respective states on Thursday.

The Minister said “We have been on tour of  East West Road , and I think that the heart of the economy of the Niger Delta people rest on this East West road, I started since Sunday from Abuja through Kogi to Benin , it has been a very ugly experience , I was on the road for 14hours, in some cases we could not pass we have to start going through villages, we saw trucks that have been on the road for more than 7days and then we came into Benin, East West road continues to Warri , it is the same story in some of the locations you see trucks piling over 5kilomettres parked because of bad road , Sapele to Agbor is so terrible , all these projects have been awarded by the previous administration which is a very good intention but while the contractors are on site working , the roads are failing”.

He continued “  I have challenged them to tell us why the roads are failing and they have not been able to do so , the dummy they sold to our people that because the roads are being overloaded , I have challenged them and they have shut their mouth up because they are doing bad construction work , there is no road they are building that is going to last 5years , if you take from Warri down to Port Harcourt , it is a very terrible experience , if President Tinubu did not send me to intervene,  in 30days nobody can travel from here to Warri, it is impossible , we have over 10 locations where the roads are below the flood lane and one section has already cut off “.

The Minister said to the Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Sen (Dr)Akon Eyakenyi “In section 2 of the East West road, I got very pleased with the bridges but the roads are very bad,  I have directed the contractor  to use his money and reconstruct it, the claim  that it is flood, I didn’t buy into that, he must reconstruct it with his money I don’t want to mention the name of the contractor , you can’t be working on the road and they are getting bad and you are asking us to pay you “.

“In  14days,  the entire length of the roads that are ongoing in this country the entire stretch must be maintained to relief the ugly incidence that we are seeing on our roads where the people are suffering, I thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that asked me to tour all the roads all over the country, he mandated me to tour the road as a  fellow of the Nigeria Society of Engineers to be able to assess it myself and bring up a comprehensive report to him , and I can assure you that at the time we roll out the concrete road pavement  that the Mr President invented and directed , Niger Delta people will be very happy “ He remarked.

Umahi said he had  inspected section 3 of the East West Road under RCC Construction company coming down to the boundary between Rivers and Akwa Ibom where the road is lower than the plain, he said the scope was not good enough  but had introduced another kind of technology for additional work which they would use  to raise the road.

The Minister reiterated the need to toll the roads, and said states needed to get involved in the Highway Development and Management Initiative (HDMI).

The Minister has also directed that, when anyone sees any section of the road being worked upon by a contractor and it is not motorable, the contractor should be stopped by the people immediately.

The Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State hailed the appointment of the Minister of Works saying “I stand here today on behalf of the Governor and the people of Akwa Ibom to welcome you on this official one day visit to Akwa Ibom State on inspection of Federal roads in Akwa Ibom State. I am very happy this is happening it is a proof that the right person is on the saddle of operation where you have to move personally to drive through all the bad roads to see things for yourself and to feel what the people of the area are feeling, it is the best thing to happen and I am very sure that will give you a great drive to do the needful, we are very grateful and I am very certain that this visit will bring good tiding to Akwa Ibom State”.

The Governor of Cross River State His Excellency, Senator  (Prince) Bassey Otu on his part said “We jubilated here over your appointment, the whole country is going to be better for it , I believe that contractors won’t do bad jobs and go with it, if government officials are not with them, our jubilation was based on the fact that you merited this appointment , you have already started well , just within a few days in office you have identified  some of the problems  and thank you so much for bringing innovation and all these ideas".

Sep

20

2023

Umahi Invites Directors of Ferma Engineers in Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, And Akwa Ibom Over Failures on East West Road 

.....Minister passes vote of no confidence on the construction of East West Road

The Honourable Minister of Works H.E Sen (Engr) David Nweze Umahi in his continuous assessment of the Nigerian roads has travelled by road from Abuja, through Kogi, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa up to Port Harcourt in Rivers State through the famous much talked about East West Road to inspect the progress of work on the highway by himself on Tuesday the 19th of September,2023.

The Minister said  “ I have invited  all the Directors of Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) with their engineers from Edo , Delta , Bayelsa and Akwa Ibom , they should be able to attend to the small failures  and redeem all the places that  failed on the road  and  I will hold a meeting with Niger Delta Development Commission (NNDC ) Managing Director  this evening  to find out  how we can collaborate on this road”.

On the East West road he said  he had discussed with the Edo State  Governor that the  East West road passed through his state and that was what is causing the traffic jams and hold up, he said they have to design a bye pass, so that the heavy trucks can stop ,moving through the town , it is by so doing that the gridlock can be  stopped and business activity in the state can improve.

Umahi said “We have to look at our constituency projects to see how our constituency projects can be meaningful and impactful and I will be discussing this with the leadership of the House of Representative and the Senate“.

While berating SETRACO construction company working on the East West Road the Minister said “the gimmicks the contractors are using is excuse of overloading.

I am passing A VOTE OF NO CONFIDENCE on the construction of this road, I won’t certify anything on this road, the road has failed, and it is not acceptable to us.  the road  is full of pot holes , we have paid over N71b and the road has completely gone down, and the road has been further  reviewed from N44b to 144b billion , apart from the beautiful bridge you have built , the road has completely gone down , project manager tell your team to meet me in Abuja on Monday to tell me  what has caused the failure on the road, I do not accept it is overloading truck, our roads are not properly being constructed and I demand that these roads must be properly constructed , it is a fight that Nigerians must win and Mr. President must win this fight for the sake of the Nigerian people to truly enjoy the dividends of a democratic Government.

Sep

17

2023

Highway Inspection: Umahi Tours Roads in Abuja, Kogi, Edo in One Day

…..FG to RCC - "Reconstruct failed section of Lokoja -Abuja Road”

…..Consultant to supervise road construction henceforth - Minister.

The Honourable Minister of Works, H.E, Sen. ( Engr) David Nweze Umahi ,CON in his continuous assessment of Nigeria's highways in order to find lasting  solution to them since his  assumption of duty has  embarked on several roads  inspections in the country  in the South West , South East while currently touring the  North Central and  South-South Geo-Political Zones of the Country.

Umahi during his inspection of Gada- Biyu Bridge bound 1 & 2 on the Lokoja - Abuja road directed RCC Contractor in charge of the construction work to reconstruct the failed section of the road that was earlier constructed by the company, he said " we have so many failed portions of the road, they have to go round and give me the list of failed portions of the road before returning to work to reconstruct them and stone base must be used, not dust base”.

The Minister said “We must get a reputable consultant to supervise the road construction so that when the road fails, we can hold them accountable, something must be done to change from the present situation of how we construct our roads, our roads should be constructed on concrete, he made this remark while inspecting Phase II of Lokoja –Okene road in Kogi State.

Umahi has also directed that the Ministry should review the road works of CGC Construction Company and revert to his office within seven days, adding that every road being constructed must have a consultant because majority of the job done have all failed because they were not built with concrete.

He told some of the road contractors where he inspected that no one would increase contract price under him and a single lane must be followed to the end where the job is less than 50% on any ongoing dual carriageway under construction.

Some of the roads  inspected on Sunday included the  : Dualisation of Abuja  -Lokoja Road Section II , Sheda – Abaji; Gada Biyu bridge bound 1 & 2 Lokoja ; Rehabilitation and Construction of Abuja -Lokoja Road ; Lokoja – Benin Road ; Okene –Auchi – Benin road (Kogi /Edo States ) ; Obajana Junction –Benin Road Section II ;  dualisation of Auchi –Ehor Section II  Benin Way and Agbor –Ewu road project in Uromi , Edo State.

Sep

15

2023

DFA of Works Ministry Has Fully Complied with FG Directive
 

The Director of Finance and Account (DFA) in the Ministry of Works, Yusuf Dahiru Girel has fully complied with government’s directive to proceed on posting to another ministry.

The information going on in the media that former DFA of Works has defiled the Federal Government directive on posting is misleading and baseless.

The posting of staff by the office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF) is an internal issue within the Federal Service and no staff has been reported to have refused directive at the Ministry till date.

Members of the public are hereby urged to disregard the information making the round within some sections of the media that there was a drama as to the effect of refusal of posting by any staff within the Ministry.

Sep

08

2023

FG To Review All Road Projects with Augmentation - Umahi

Minister of Works Sen. (Engr).  David Nweze Umahi has made it known that he will review all projects having augmentations.

He made this statement while granting an interview with Pressmen during the Inspection tour of the reconstruction of Bende - Ohafia - Arochukwu road section  I in Abia State on Thursday September 7, 2023.

The Minister explained why he wants to review the projects, though not as proof, but because he wants to have the knowledge why a project is being reviewed. His words " I have directed that all the regional Directors will work with my team of consultants to review all the projects that are having augmentation. It's not a proof but l want to answer many questions about a project for example project awarded in many number of years for say 2 billion is now ten billion l should be able to answer that. " I seek for knowledge to know why projects are being reviewed, whether it will ever have augmentation, l want to unravel the augmentation even though BPP would have approved it. if I feel the augmentation is not necessary, I will bring down the cost. He added.

Umahi said that the review of the augmentation is to also help him to answer Mr President, the National Assembly, the Nigerian masses and the Press so he will be able to defend what ever augmentation that arises.

While answering questions on whether the success story of his Ebonyi state advocacy on concrete technology being replicated across the country will be supported, he said, that depends on the stability of the road for instance in the Northern part of the country the use of asphalt can be used but not in all situations. " Depending on the stability of the road like in the North we can do asphalt, but that is not to say concrete cannot be used. With asphalt in the Northern part of the country, that will last for ten years, if you use concrete it will last for fifty years".

Engr. Umahi expressed happiness with the pace of work in the areas that the contractor is handling.

Speaking earlier, the contractor, M/S HARTLAND NIG. LTD. explained that the contract was awarded in 2020 with total number of forty-five kilometer and they could only conclude on 4km of the road.

Sep

07

2023

"Fight on turning to Concrete is a continuous one - Umahi

Engineer David Umahi, the Minister of Works has said that the fight on turning to the use of Concrete Technology in road construction is a continuous one.

The Minister made this statement while on inspection tour of the Rehabilitation of Outstanding Section of Onitsha - Enugu Expressway under the Road Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme - Contract no 7629 on September 6, 2023.

In an interview with Journalists, he gave reasons for using this concrete technology to be loaded with a whole lot of benefits, as being durable with a life span of over fifty years (50), and that it can stand for these number of years before it will require maintenance more than bitumen imported into the Country that are more of sub-standard which cannot stand the number of expected years, also it's cheaper to build with much local content sourced materials. In his words " I have looked at the cost of bindal cause, the wearing costs on our roads, it is safer doing it on concrete, it's going to be cheaper, Niger Cat are doing it that's why I directed that the right-hand side of the Enugu - Onitsha Expressway be done on concrete".

He directed that Enugu Section lll - Port-Harcourt expressway by Messrs. CGC Nig Ltd also that the second carriage way be totally done on concrete, "we are safer on concrete in the South East and that's what we are going to be doing" he added.

Umahi frowned at the costing of Ozalla - Isu - Onitsha and additional 3km with bridges to cost fifteen billion naira, he instructed that the work be brought back to be looked at. " I saw the road leading to Ozalla - Isu - Onitsha, I'm very shocked that four bridges and 3km additional road is said to be costing fifteen billion, I believe strongly that there's no other way it will cost us more than three - four billion.

He made it known that contractors should stay aside when budget is too expensive and budgeting process is low because it's unhealthy for the contractor. " What I want to do when a budget is too expensive and budgeting process is very low, the contractors can stay aside like what we are witnessing ten to fifteen years, it's not healthy for the contractor, because he is losing money on equipment and maintaining the work".  "Ogbulafor - Okalagun roads because it was awarded in 2010, the whole shoulders are gone".

Earlier, the contractor while explaining the work, said it will be completed by April 2025 and also that there was no problem of funding.

Sep

05

2023

The Ongoing Rehabilitation of Ozalla - Akpugo - Amagunze - Ihuokpara - Nkomoro - Isu - Onicha (Enugu - Onitsha) With A Spur to Onunwere in Enugu State Is Commendable - Umahi

Minister of Works Engr. Dave Umahi has commended the ongoing rehabilitation of Ozalla - Akpugo -Amagunze - Ihuokpara - Nkomoro - Isu - Onitsha (Enugu - Onitsha) with a spur to Onunwere, Enugu State, by Arab contractors Nigeria Limited.

The Minister made the commendation while on inspection tour of the road on Tuesday September 5, 2023.

He pointed out some faults on the road to be as a result of using bad asphalt which led to the failure of the road, so the contractor has been directed to go back, redesign 1.6 kilometer and ensure the needed attention on rigid pavement on the right-hand side.

While addressing Pressmen, Umahi, attributed the major problem to be funding. In his words, "but I will acknowledge that our major problem is the issue of funding, there is no way any annual budget can fund it with Sukuk, it's difficult. So, we have to work out issues and see how we can source for the money". He added.

In his address, Director Highways in charge of the South East, Engr. Bide Obioha shed more light on the contract work.

Sep

02

2023

Ondo State Hails the Appointment of Minister of Works.

.....Ooni Of Ife, Senator Iyiola Omisore Discuss Osun Roads with Umahi

The Honourable Minister of Works Engr David Nweze Umahi has explained the reasons of his working visit to the South West and other regions of the country, he said “I have been in Lagos and South West since Monday to evaluate the ongoing projects especially bridges that are so important to Lagos economy, the issue of concrete technology on our roads and review of road contracts, that is why we are going around to see how we can redesign our roads with concrete pavement”.

He made these remarks while meeting with the Deputy Governor of Ondo State Mr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa who received him on behalf of the state. The Minister during his visit also explained how Ondo State can partner with the Federal Government through the Highway Development Initiative (HDMI) in building Federal Government roads in Ondo State.

The Minister said ‘Most Federal roads are connecting one state to the other and when such is cut off the economic viability of such states are in trouble, that is why I am presenting to the Economic Council to allow us to access funds to conclude some of these roads and if we don’t conclude them, it will impact negatively on these states economy.”

The Deputy Governor who spoke on behalf of  Ondo State Governor, Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu CON SAN during the meeting in the  Governor's office  said “Your appointment has not come to us as a surprise, congratulations on your nomination, clearance and inauguration by Mr. President  it is a well-deserved appointment , because as a former Governor your antecedent made you the first among the rest  and your experience in the terrain of infrastructural development and governance is in no small measure”.

The Deputy Governor said "the zeal at which you have commenced official engagement with your visit to the South West zone has given us excitement that better days are here for real”.

He said the “APC administration in this state has taken a giant stride in infrastructural development by building quality roads in all the Sectorial district of the state”.

Earlier, the Minister after his tour of the dualization of lbadan road (Mayfair Junction)- Lagere-Iremo –Enuwa- Ilesha Bye-Pass in Osun State paid a courtesy visit on the Ooni of Ife Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, (Ọjájá II) CFR with Senator Iyiola Ajani Omisore at the Ooni palace where the Minister explained to them the advantages of building roads with concrete in Osun State.

Aug

29

2023

No Concrete Layout, No Contract - Umahi

Minister of Works, Engineer David Umahi has disclosed that there will be no contract award under his watch for any road unless it is with concrete layout.

The Minister made this disclosure during an inspection tour of Oshodi Oworoshoki - Ojota road on Tuesday 29th August, 2023 as part of his tour of some roads in Lagos and  states within South West  Nigeria.

The Minister who expressed satisfaction with the job done noted that it was about ninety nine percent done except for some finishing touches.

He wondered why some contractors were against the more durable and cost reduction use of Concrete Technology that is the use of cement for road construction despite its advantages over bitumen which is more expensive and less durable, a situation  he attributed to the fact that the bitumen  produced recently are of lesser quality.

The Minister noted that despite the high number of heavy trucks that ply the road it is still without defects adding that if it was an asphalt road it would have started failing and developing faults.

He challenged contractors who are aversed to the construction of concrete roads to come to Oworoshoki road to see an example of its advantage over asphalt.

At the Apongbon bridge, the Minister lamented that some people were trading and selling chemical under it which resulted in the fire outbreak early in the year thereby causing huge damage to the bridge.  He expressed government's determination to rehabilitate it as soon as possible and install solar light.

While at Iponri section of the Eko bridge the Engr. David Umahi called on the Lagos State Government to urge the people using the premises under it to clean the surrounding and make it beautiful and habitable for their use.

At the Porto-Novo Liverpool round- about bridge, the Minister directed the Director, Design and Bridges, Engineer Adesanya Awosanya to send the report on the structural defects on it and other bridges that have similar problems to his office.

Aug

26

2023

FG Reaffirms Commitment to completing Abuja/Kaduna Road.

The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi (CON) has reassured the people of the North and Nigerians of the commitment of the FG to the completion of the Abuja –Kaduna dual carriageway by 2024.

Umahi disclosed this while speaking to journalists during the inspection of the highway as directed by Mr. President who, according to him, is so passionate about the completion of the road as it will alleviate the suffering and travel time of commuters plying the road.

The Minister added that the road is very important to Mr. President and he is committed to finishing it by 2024, adding that he will match his words with action.

Umahi said, "Mr. President is passionate and concerned about finishing this road and many other Federal roads across the Nation and my inspection as directed is to get first-hand information and examine the challenges involved in the construction of the road and other roads to be visited soon”.

The section 1 of the highway which is 165.5km is part of the 375.4-kilometer Abuja-Kaduna –Zaria-Kano project awarded to Messrs. Julius Berger Nigeria Plc. in 2018 by the previous administration but is yet to be complete like other sections of the road due to insecurity and criminal activities.

The Minister who decried any form of wastage of funds or delay during construction work stressed that there should be a meaningful reason for any change in the approved design of a project to take place.

“Speaking further, he said, "I have observed that there is an issue with the design, I'm directing the Director of Geo-Technics Material and Quality Control of the Ministry of Works, he must come and run figures with me with the project Consultant".

"They have to prove to me that the CPR of the sub upgrade now is more than the CPR of the existing sub grade. I don’t believe in it and if that is not the case there shouldn’t be any need to disturb the existing sub grade, we should actually build our pavement on the existing sub grade. We want to see how we can cut down cost".

Umahi emphasized the need to quicken the approval process of payments for contractors and not make  contractors go to site when payments have not been made to them.

“Again, I have asked the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority, (NSIA), to run me figures, let me know how much money they want to give in every month for this project because there is a limit you can push the contractor if you don’t have funding for him".

" If you generate certificate and you cannot pay him, you can’t do more, so we are trying to look at it and if we get the figures, we will be able to insist that the contractor should start this road constructions on a number of sections", he further said.

The Minister who acknowledged the central role of security in the progress of any nation has assured Nigerians that this administration will do everything within available means to provide security for lives and properties on the roads.

He promised that efforts will be made to provide solar light on the completed sections of the road for the safety of road users and its environs if the contingency funds are available.

The Minister encouraged the use of concrete road pavement as an alternative to the use of asphalt in road construction describing it as durable and cheaper.

He urged citizens to take responsibility for FG projects in their states by protecting them rather than looting and vandalizing them as government cannot protect them.

The Director Highway Construction and Rehabilitation, Engr. Folorunsho Esan and the Director Highway North Central Engr. Bola Aganaba, all promised to monitor closely from now on the progress of work going on the road and also to meet with the deadline.

Responding, the Project Manager Messrs. Julius Berger Nigeria Ltd, represented by Engr. Dwadowki Finn, he expressed his gratitude to the Minister for his visit and encouragement. He stated that the project is their major project in the country and will continue to do their best to maintain the standard and deliver the project at the scheduled time.

The Minister was accompanied on the inspection by Senators Lawal Usman representative Kaduna Central and Onyekachi Nwaebonyi, representing Ebonyi North. The Federal Controller of Works in Kaduna State, Engr. Ibrahim Mmadu and Eng. Usman Yakubu were also in the entourage.

The Minister also before leaving Kaduna state paid a courtesy visit to the Governor of Kaduna state who was represented by the Deputy Governor of the state.