Federal Ministry of Works

Jul

2026

LATEST PRESS

TINUBU FLAGS OFF STRATEGIC NORTH-EAST ROAD PROJECTS TO ENHANCE SECURITY, TRADE, AND REGIONAL INTEGRATION

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has officially flagged off the rehabilitation of the Bama – Banki and the Dikwa – Gamboru Ngala Roads, describing them as strategic investments to restore critical infrastructure, enhance security, and drive economic growth in the North-East. Represented at the ceremony by the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, the President said the projects reflect his administration's campaign promise to rebuild vital infrastructure that will improve connectivity, strengthen regional integration, and promote sustainable development. The two contracts are awarded to Dangote Industries (Nig.) Ltd. under the Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme, while the subcontractor is Dantata & Sawoe (Nig.) Limited.

President Tinubu noted that the strategic road corridors would improve access to neighbouring Cameroon and the Republic of Chad, creating new opportunities for trans-Saharan trade and expanding cross-border commerce. He stressed that the projects would not only facilitate the movement of people, goods, and services but also improve security and support the socio-economic recovery of communities affected by insurgency. He called on all stakeholders to work closely with the people of the North East to ensure the successful execution of the projects, while assuring Nigerians that his administration would continue to invest in infrastructure that stimulates economic growth and national development.

The Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. Sen. David Umahi, CON, FNSE, FNATE, described the commencement of the projects as another pointer to the Federal Government's infrastructure renewal drive. He explained that the roads are part of the administration's four legacy infrastructure projects, spread across the six geopolitical zones, and are designed to improve regional connectivity, reduce travel time, facilitate trade, and strengthen economic integration with neighbouring countries.

Also speaking, the Honourable Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, Esq., highlighted the enormous economic, security, healthcare, and tourism benefits of the projects. According to him, the roads are more than transportation infrastructure; they are strategic investments that will promote regional integration, improve livelihoods, and enhance the quality of life of the people. He commended President Tinubu for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to transforming Nigeria through sustained infrastructure development.

In their separate remarks, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Senator Allwell Heacho Onyesoh, and the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Works, Hon. Akin Alabi, applauded the strong collaboration between the National Assembly and the Federal Ministry of Works. They described the projects as a clear demonstration of the Federal Government's commitment to inclusive infrastructure development and pledged the continued legislative support of the National Assembly towards their successful completion.

President/CEO of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, GCON, described the Federal Government's Tax Credit Scheme as a transformative initiative for financing critical infrastructure. He disclosed that the Dangote Group is currently executing 12 road projects valued at about ₦3 trillion under the scheme and reaffirmed the company's readiness to undertake additional projects in support of national development. He noted that quality roads and bridges stimulate economic activities, attract investment, and promote national prosperity. Dangote also commended the leadership of the Minister, describing him as "a conqueror" for his dedication and outstanding commitment to infrastructure delivery.

The Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, CON, described the projects as strategically important to the economic recovery and security of the North East. He said the roads would strengthen commercial and social ties with Cameroon and the Chad Republics, while improving peace, security, and economic activities across the region. Governor Zulum expressed profound appreciation to President Tinubu for his continued support for Borno State and the entire Zone.

Speaking on behalf of the Borno State Council of Traditional Rulers, comprising the Emirates of Borno, Biu, Dikwa, and Gwoza, the Chairman of the Council, His Royal Highness Alhaji (Dr.) Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Al-Amin El-Kanemi, represented by the Shehu of Dikwa, welcomed the initiative. He expressed confidence that the projects would deliver lasting socio-economic benefits to the affected communities and assured the Federal Government of the traditional institution's full support throughout the implementation process.

The flag-off of the Bama–Banki and Dikwa–Gamboru Ngala Roads’ rehabilitation projects underscores the Administration's commitment to renewing critical infrastructure, strengthening national security, expanding regional trade, and accelerating economic transformation. Upon completion, the roads are expected to improve mobility, facilitate cross-border commerce, attract investment, and unlock new opportunities for sustainable growth and prosperity across the North East and Nigeria as a whole.

Dec

2024

CALL ERRING CONTRACTORS TO ORDER... GORONYO CHARGES FERMA. The Honourable Minister of State, Federal Ministry of Works, HMSW, Mohammed Bello Goronyo Esq, has charged the Managing Director/ CEO of Federal Emergency and Roads Maintenance Agency, (FERMA), to warn contractors who fail to deliver on their contract awards to desist. He said the era of abandoning projects is over. These contracts are awarded and paid through the tax payers money who desire value for their money. The list of defaulting Contractors must be made available to the Headquarters not later than next week. He also proposed the need for a strong Technical Committee that will criss-cross the country to monitor FERMA projects with a view to ascertaining the quality of their deliveries. The Honourable Minister made these remarks on Monday 2nd November, 2024, during his familiarisation tour of the South West section of FERMA, where the State Coordinators made presentations before the HMSW on the progress, challenges and expectations in the cause of the discharge of their duties. Goronyo commended the Federal Road Management Engineers, ( FRME), from the South-West States, assuring them that all issues raised will be looked into to make FERMA great and successful. He was quick to add that though the challenges are real, huge and enormous, they are not insurmountable. “The country must tighten up its belt and combat the challenges frontally. We have been drawing from a well without water for so long. We now have a President who is willing to face the challenges head on without complaining. We must be ready to support one another and do things differently. We must all support His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to deliver on his mandate.” He remarked. The HMSW pledged to pay unscheduled visits to contract sites to have a first hand knowledge of the commitment of contractors to projects, while also assuring that Staff Welfare is a paramount issue of concern which will not be toyed with. ...

Dec

2024

MINISTER COMMISSIONS SOLAR-POWERED STREETLIGHT PROJECT IN LAGOS The Honorable Minister of State for Works (HMSW), Muhammad Bello Goronyo, Esq, has commissioned a solar- powered streetlight project in Lagos on Monday, 2nd December, 2024. The streetlights being provided by the Federal Emergency Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), are a relief and a welcome development for the residents of the community of Isale- Eko in Lagos State. Goronyo identified the benefits of the project to include improvement in the socioeconomic well-being, as well as mitigating insecurity challenges confronting the area. “This aligns well with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR,” he added. The Minister further urged residents to take full ownership of the project with a view to safeguarding it from vandalization by unscrupulous elements. The HMSW, on an earlier Courtesy Visit to His Royal Majesty, the Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Babatunde Osuolale Akiolu, in his Iga Idugaran Palace, noted that the initiative is part of a conscious effort by the Federal Government at investing in renewable energy solutions, stating that “as a responsible Government, we have to continue to do more to improve the wellbeing of our teeming communities.” He solicited for prayers and support of His Royal Majesty and indeed Nigerians to be able to do more for the overall growth and development of the nation. Speaking at the Palace, the Managing Director/CEO of FERMA, Engr. Dr. Chukwuemeka Agbasi, thanked the Oba for the warm reception accorded the entourage, also stated that the installation of the solar powered lights will provide extended hours for trading and, therefore, arrest unemployment among the youth. While commending the community for providing an enabling atmosphere for the installation of the facility, Engr. Agbasi, cautioned against vandalisation, pledging that FERMA has resolved not shirk in its responsibility to ensure adequate maintenance, as well as deliver value in road maintenance in the community and the state. Responding, HRM Oba Akiolu, appreciated the Honourable Minister for the visit, noting that FERMA has been wonderful and cooperative in the discharge of its duties to the community. His Royal Majesty also used the occasion to warn miscreants and criminals to desist from vandalising public goods and infrastructure, assuring that Nigerians will laugh soon as the Government of the day is responsible and working very hard to put things right. Patience, the Monarch emphasised, is the keyword, while appealing to Nigerians to give peace a chance. ...

Nov

2024

Nigeria - China Partnership: Driving Growth and Development The Honourable Minister of State for Works (HMSW), Mohammed Bello Goronyo, Esq has applauded the partnership between Nigeria and China as a driver of growth in infrastructure, transportation, mining and knowledge transfer. Speaking at the CAETE Exhibition in Africa (Nigeria) and the 18th China Engineering and Technology Expo in Abuja on November 28, 2024, Goronyo emphasised the nations' shared commitment to sustainable development through strategic cooperation. The Minister highlighted Nigeria’s National Integrated Infrastructure Master Plan (NIIMP), which aims to increase infrastructure’s GDP contribution from 30-35% to 70% by 2043, prioritising investments in transportation, energy, healthcare and water systems. He noted China’s significant role in projects like the Abuja-Kaduna Railway, Lagos - Ibadan Expressway and renewable energy initiatives, which have boosted connectivity, commerce and local capacity. He also stressed the importance of green infrastructure, smart cities, and innovative financing mechanisms to ensure sustainability and urged for greater technical training and public-private partnerships. “I am delighted to share Nigeria's strides in redefining its infrastructure landscape through the National Integrated Infrastructure Master Plan (NIIMP). This long-term strategic framework prioritises investments across key sectors, including transportation, energy, water, irrigation and healthcare infrastructures,” the HMSW further emphasised. NIIMP will promote innovative financing models, public-private partnerships, as well as enhance collaboration with global partners like China to deliver on sustainable and inclusive infrastructure. Through this plan, it is hoped that Nigeria will build robust infrastructure, which will drive industrialisation, improve the quality of lives and position the nation as a hub for trade and investment in Africa. This is in tandem with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. In his Keynote Address, the Honourable Minister of Transportation, Sen. Abubakar Sa’id Alkali, commended the progress achieved in the rail, road and maritime sectors through a Nigeria-China collaboration. The Ambassador of China to Nigeria, Yu Dun Hai described the partnership as a model for South-South cooperation with transformative projects like the Abuja - Kaduna Railway, which showcase the potential of engineering and technology. The event reaffirmed the role of Partnerships in fostering economic growth, regional integration and sustainable development, which align with one of the Renewed Hope Agenda’s vision of enhancing infrastructure and transportation as enablers of growth. The Chairman of the Chinese Community in Nigeria, Mr Erie Ni emphasised that the event is of key importance and would deepen the relationship between the two countries, fostering immense innovation, growth and sustainable development. He stated that "over the years, China and Nigeria have been involved in a dynamic and mutually beneficial relationship as Chinese enterprises, engineers and investors have been privileged to contribute to Nigeria's development in various sectors including construction, telecommunications, energy and transport." The Director General and Global Liaison, the Nigeria – China Strategic Partnership Reached by the Two Countries, Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe reiterated the need for enhanced collaboration, cultural exchange and trade to cement a prosperous future for both nations ...

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PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT

Nov

2025

OTHER NEWS

Aug

2021

Perm Sec Works Appeals Against Destruction of Public Utilities

The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, Babangida Hussaini has appealed to the public to desist from destroying public utilities, imploring them to help the government in it's effort to preserve them for the good of the nation.

Hussaini gave the warning over the weekend during a routine inspection of the ongoing Abuja - Kano road project and coincidentally saw some women burning tyres under the bridge of a railway crossing along Zaria-Kano section of the expressway.

He queried " where are you destroying our bridges, our roads and public utilities, this is putting the government and public life in danger "

The Perm Sec was on inspection of the ongoing reconstruction work of the road when he suddenly saw some women burning tyres under the bridge of the railway crossing along Zaria-Kano section of the road and suddenly braked to address them.

Hussaini told them that their action was putting the citizens life in danger and a waste of resources of the government, thereby drawing back the efforts of President Muhammadu Buhari at providing quality road infrastructure for the good of Nigerians.

While expressing his visible anger, he also sounded a strong warning to them to desist from such activities henceforth. He implored them to see government's properties as their personal property so that they protect and preserve them jealously.

In their reactions, one of the women caught in the act said that, they only saw some other people burning tyres under the bridge and that they only joined without knowing the implication.

She expressed regrets over their actions, telling the Perm Sec and his entourage that "we have to obey our leaders"

SPEECHES

Nov

2019

Welcome Remarks By the Director (Planning, Research & Statistics), Dr. Famous S. Eseduwo at the Technical Session of the 8th Meeting of the National Council on Lands, Housing and Urban Development

PROTOCOLS

On behalf of the Honourable Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, Honourable Minister of State, Engr. Abubakar D. Aliyu, FNSE, the Permanent Secretary, Mohammed Bukar and the Management of the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, I warmly welcome you to the Technical Session (Meeting of Officials) at the Eight (8th) Meeting of the National Council on Lands, Housing and Urban Development.

2. The theme of this year’s Council Meeting, “Housing Development and Consumer Credit as Strategies for National Prosperity” was carefully chosen in recognition of government’s new initiative to generate more jobs and create wealth for Nigerians through the mass construction of affordable housing units.

3. As we all are aware, housing is one of the fundamental human needs and a veritable indicator of standard of living in every society. However, housing deficits exist in almost all the countries of the world, either in the form of shortages in supply or affordability gaps.

Housing is of supreme importance to man and one of the best indicators of a person’s standard of living and his place in society. However, at no point has it been adequately supplied either quantitatively or qualitatively.

4. Permit me to highlight that various factors are responsible for preventing effective housing development, some of which include lack of secure access to land, high cost of construction, limited access to finance, bureaucratic procedures, high cost of land registration and titling, uncoordinated policies and implementation at both Federal and State levels, ownership rights under the Land Use Act, lack of critical infrastructure, affordability gap, and inefficient development control, etc.

5. In order to comprehensively address the challenges of housing development for sustainable economic growth, there is the need to develop a holistic strategy that will involve all tiers of government and the private sector. Considering the fact that the private sector has displayed flexibility and potentials in housing development as it is prevalent, internationally. I want to assure you that the federal government would continually work towards fine-tuning its policies and programmes towards creating an enabling environment for greater participation of subnational governments and the private sector in housing development.

6. It is worth noting that, the present Administration is mindful of the challenges of ‘access to credit’ encountered by the Low- and Medium-Income segments of our society in the pursuit of home ownership. Government is also aware that land acquisition poses a major hindrance to effective housing delivery. Thus, all processes that would ensure proper harmonization of the various procedures and instruments of land acquisition/transfer across the country are currently being addressed.

7. The Ministry through its agencies is working tirelessly in collaboration with the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), Cooperative Societies as well as the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) towards the development and delivery of affordable housing to the low-income workers in the formal sector. Furthermore, our Agencies are also developing initiatives to incorporate micro-enterprises, such as agro-allied ventures into the housing scheme with a view to generating more employment opportunities thereby creating wealth for beneficiaries to repay their loans at ease

8. It is interesting to note, that the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria’s single digit interest rate of 6% on mortgage and home renovation loans is the lowest, compared to what is obtainable in the open market. The Bank has concluded various initiatives to make shelter more accessible and affordable by the reduction of equity contribution for National Housing Fund mortgage loans to 0% for loans of N5 million and below, while loans of N5 - N15 million attract only 10% down payments.

9. In addition, the ‘Rent-to-Own’ initiative eliminates equity contribution and payment of mortgage perfection fees, which accounts for up to 20% of mortgage transaction costs. Under a simple rental arrangement, an individual gains immediate access to a housing property while the monthly rent is accrued to serve as equity build-up towards ownership of the property.

10. As you are also aware, the ongoing National Housing Programme across the federation is an initiative specially designed to encourage local manufacturers, professionals, artisans and craftsmen towards enhancing employment and wealth creation. The Housing Programme only allows the use of home-grown building materials and components in the construction of the houses except where it is established that the component cannot be produced locally or production capacity is inadequate.

11. Ladies and Gentlemen, in recognition of the widening income gap in our society, the present administration has provided an array of safety-nets through the National Social Investment Programme (SIP), targeted at providing support to over 12 million needy Nigerians by giving relief and assistance to children, unemployed youths, the weak and vulnerable as well as small/medium entrepreneurs (SMEs) to mitigate the adverse effect of poverty. Let us also use this platform of the National Council to harvest ideas and develop some stringent strategies for employment generation and wealth creation through the built industry.

12. I, therefore, urge all stakeholders, here present, to make meaningful contributions on the memoranda submitted to enable the federal government formulate and strengthen policies that would facilitate more home ownership amongst Nigerians, especially the low- and -medium income earners.

Thank You.