Federal Ministry of Works

Nov

2025

LATEST PRESS

95% OF NIGERIANS DEPEND ON ROAD TRANSPORT — PERMANENT SECRETARY

The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Works, Engr. Olufunsho Adebiyi, FNSE, has disclosed that approximately 95 percent of Nigerians rely on road transport for their movement and the transportation of goods and services across the country.

Engr. Adebiyi made this known, while delivering his Address at the 30th Meeting of the National Council on Works, which opened today, 3rd November 2025, at the Adetiloye Hall, Trade Fair Complex, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State.

He explained that despite the development of other modes of transportation such as rail, air, and water, road transport remains the dominant means of mobility in Nigeria — a situation that places enormous pressure on the nation’s road infrastructure. “The resultant effect is heavy traffic volume and rapid deterioration of our pavements caused by heavy-duty vehicles and cargo movements,” he stated.

The Permanent Secretary emphasised that the completion and effective utilisation of the national rail network would significantly reduce road congestion, improve safety, and enhance economic efficiency. “If rail transport becomes fully operational and reliable, many Nigerians would prefer to travel by train. It is cheaper, safer, faster, and less stressful,” he disclosed.

Engr. Adebiyi expressed appreciation to the Governor of Ekiti State, His Excellency, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, for hosting the milestone event and for the warm hospitality extended to delegates. He noted that holding the Council meeting in Ado Ekiti was symbolic, as it provides an opportunity to showcase the state’s infrastructure development strides.

He also lauded the Honourable Minister of Works, Sen. (Engr.) David Umahi, CON, FNSE, FNATE, and the Honourable Minister of State for Works, Bello M. Goronyo, Esq., for their exceptional leadership and untiring commitment to improving the nation’s road network, ensuring transparency in project implementation and management, and upholding professional standards in engineering practice.

The theme of the 30th National Council on Works, “Discipline, Transparency, and Innovation in Engineering Practice,” underscores the Federal Government’s resolve to entrench integrity, accountability, and creativity in infrastructure management and delivery.

According to Engr. Adebiyi, the theme reflects the nation’s commitment to ensuring value for money in public projects through ethical practices, openness in procurement, and the adoption of modern technologies to achieve durable and sustainable infrastructure.

He further called on all delegates and other stakeholders to engage in constructive deliberations during the Technical Sessions to develop practical strategies that will enhance service delivery, strengthen institutional capacity, and promote economic diversification through efficient road networks.

The meeting brought together Commissioners for Works from all the 36 States of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Permanent Secretaries, Directors, representatives of professional bodies, contractors, and other key stakeholders in the works and infrastructure sectors.

In her remarks, the Director of Planning, Research and Statistics, Federal Ministry of Works, Mrs. Emily I. Sounde, also expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Government and good people of Ekiti State for hosting this important national event in such a calm, secure, and beautiful environment.

She described Ekiti State as “a wonderful land, where nature’s beauty meets tranquility,” noting that the hospitality extended to delegates made the state a truly fitting venue for this year’s Council meeting.

Mrs. Sounde emphasised that the National Council on Works remains a veritable platform for formulating policies and strategies that guide the growth and performance of Nigeria’s infrastructure sector.

She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to evidence-based policy formulation, robust data systems, continuous research, and stakeholder engagement — all in line with national priorities and global best practices. She encouraged delegates to use the opportunity of the forum to evaluate current policies, identify implementation gaps, and propose actionable strategies to improve service delivery and sustainability in the works sector.

The Director further commended the Honourable Ministers of Works, the Permanent Secretary, and all delegates for their leadership, vision, and dedication to advancing the nation’s infrastructure development.

Speaking earlier, the Director of Civil Engineering, Ekiti State Ministry of Works, Engr. B. J. Oke, reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to ethical governance, transparent procurement processes, and sustainable infrastructure delivery.
He stated that “As we commence this important engagement, let us approach our deliberations with discipline in thought, transparency in purpose, and innovation in action — for these remain the enduring foundations of progress in Nigeria’s engineering and works sector,” he stressed.

The 30th National Council on Works will continue in Ekiti State tomorrow through Friday, with active participation from Commissioners of Works and Infrastructure Development, Permanent Secretaries, Directors, Engineers, Contractors, and other key stakeholders from across the Federation.

Mohammed A. Ahmed
Director, Press and Public Relations.
3rd November 2025.

Oct

2025

Minister Inspects Ongoing Reconstruction and Expansion of Mararaba-Keffi Road (43.65km) Under Tax Credit Scheme. The Honourable Minister of State for Works, Rt. Hon. Muhammad Bello Goronyo, Esq., on Thursday, 2nd October 2025, conducted a site inspection of the ongoing reconstruction and expansion works on the 43.65-kilometre Mararaba-Keffi Road. The project, a critical infrastructure upgrade under the Road Infrastructure Development and Refurbishment Investment Tax Credit Scheme, is being executed by China Harbour Engineering Company Nigeria Limited. The Minister, during the inspection, expressed serious concern over the pace of work and the persistent traffic congestion along the corridor, which serves as a vital link between the Federal Capital Territory and Nasarawa State. He noted that the daily gridlock severely affects thousands of commuters, particularly civil servants residing along the axis, many of whom struggle to arrive at work on time. Rt. Hon. Goronyo emphasized the urgency of expediting the construction timeline, reminding the contractor that the Federal Government had granted permission for night-time construction activities to ensure faster delivery and to mitigate the hardship faced by road users. "This project is of national importance. The volume of traffic here is massive, and many public servants are suffering. The government is fully supportive of this project, but the contractor must rise to the occasion. You have approval to work at night — please utilise it to meet the delivery schedule," the Minister stated. In response, Mr. Dong Hong, the Project Manager representing China Harbour Engineering Company Nigeria Limited, assured the Minister and the Nigerian public that the project remains on track and will be completed within the agreed timeline. "We understand the importance of this road and the urgency to ease traffic for the people. Our team is fully mobilised, and we are committed to delivering quality work on time," said Mr. Hong. The Mararaba-Keffi Road project forms part of the Federal Government’s efforts to address critical infrastructure needs through innovative financing mechanisms such as the Tax Credit Scheme, which allows private sector partners to invest in public road projects in exchange for tax reliefs. The Federal Ministry of Works remains committed to ensuring that all ongoing infrastructure projects are delivered efficiently, timely, and to the highest standards, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Mohammed Abdullahi Ahmed. Director, Press and Public Relations Department. Federal Ministry of Works. ...

Oct

2025

Independence Day: Goronyo Hails Tinubu, Urges Nigerians to Renew Patriotism As Nigeria marks another year of its independence, the Honourable Minister of State for Works, Rt. Hon. Bello Muhammad Goronyo, Esq., has extended warm felicitations to His Excellency, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and to all Nigerians at home and abroad. In his Independence Day message, the Minister emphasized that the celebration is not only a tribute to the sacrifices of Nigeria’s founding fathers but also a reminder of the unity, resilience, and indomitable spirit of the Nigerian people. “Independence is a call to renew our shared responsibility in building a stronger, more prosperous, and peaceful nation for generations to come,” the Minister stated. He further urged both leaders and citizens to embrace patriotism and dedication in order to ensure that Nigeria continues to stand tall among the comity of nations. “May this anniversary inspire us all to work together with renewed hope and commitment towards the growth and greatness of our dear country,” he added. The Minister concluded by wishing Nigerians a joyous celebration, declaring: “Happy Independence Day, Nigeria! Long live Mr. President." Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.” Abdullahi Ameen Mohammed. For: S A (Media) to the Honourable Minister of State for Works 1st October, 2025 ...

Sep

2025

Goronyo Inspects Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway, Commends Progress, Calls for Communities’ Support The Honourable Minister of State for Works, Rt. Hon. Muhammad Bello Goronyo, Esq., on Thursday, September 11, 2025, undertook an inspection tour of the Sokoto section of the ongoing Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway project, a flagship initiative of the Federal Government under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. The inspection covered strategic communities including Silame, Katame, Gade, and Binji in Sokoto State, where massive construction activities are currently ongoing. The visit provided the Minister with firsthand insight into the pace, quality, and challenges of the project. During the tour, Hon. Goronyo expressed satisfaction with the progress of works recorded so far, commending the contractors, Hitech Construction Limited, for their dedication, efficiency, and adherence to international construction standards. Reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment, the Minister stressed that the 1,068-kilometer Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway is not just a road project but a transformational national infrastructure that will redefine Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape. He explained that the superhighway is designed to: Enhance regional integration and open up trade routes between the North and Southern parts of the country; Boost economic activities by facilitating seamless movement of goods, services, and people; Provide thousands of direct and indirect jobs, thereby tackling unemployment and poverty; Improve security and connectivity across states, enabling safer and faster travel for Nigerians. The Minister further expressed gratitude to security agencies for their continued vigilance in providing safety for contractors and workers on site. He also commended host communities for their cooperation, urging them to strengthen their support and take full ownership of the project. According to him, “This superhighway is not just for today; it is an investment in the future of our children and generations to come. Its completion will transform livelihoods, open new economic opportunities, and position Sokoto as a strategic hub for national and regional trade.” As part of his inspection itinerary, Barr. Goronyo proceeded to Kebbi State, where he joined the Honourable Minister of Works, Senator Engr. David Umahi, CON, in a joint assessment of the project corridor. He lauded the leadership and dedication of the Honourable Minister, describing his oversight role as pivotal to ensuring quality delivery and timely completion of one of Nigeria’s most ambitious road projects. The Federal Ministry of Works, through the leadership of Senator David Umahi and Hon. Muhammad Bello Goronyo, Esq., reassures Nigerians of its unwavering resolve to deliver durable, modern, and world-class infrastructure that will unlock the country’s full economic potential, strengthen national unity, and enhance the quality of life for all citizens. ...

LIVE ACTIVITY FEED

PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT

Nov

2025

OTHER NEWS

Jul

2024

SEN. UMAHI MOURNS THE DEATH OF CHIEF ENGR. DR. EMMANUEL CHUKWUEMEKA IWUANYANWU. (AHAEJIAGAMBA NDIGBO)

I received, with a deep sense of loss, the sad news of the death of the President - General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Engr. Dr. Emmanuel Chukwuemeka Iwuanyanwu CFR, OFR, MFR, GCSI, FNSE, FNIST, FNICE, KSC, (Ahaejiagamba Ndigbo) who was called to eternal glory on 25th July, 2024 at the age of 82 years.

Late Chief Iwuanyanwu was an experienced and well-respected national figure with unwavering political, professional, and business track records. He will be remembered for his commitment to nation- building; he canvassed unequivocally for equity, equality, value re-orientation, and unconstrained national development. He made perceptive contributions to issues that promote national dialogue during his time as President - General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo. Indeed, we have lost a rare gem. May his soul rest in peace, amen.

I offer my deepest condolences to the family, the government of Imo state, the Igbo communities worldwide, and indeed Nigeria for the loss of this great statesman.

H.E Sen. Engr. Nweze David Umahi, CON
Honourable Minister of Works

SPEECHES

Apr

2025

INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE DIRECTOR PLANNING, RESEARCH AND STATISTICS, FEDERAL MINISTRY OF WORKS AT THE MAIDEN EDITION OF MID-TERM REVIEW MEETING ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF DECISIONS REACHED AT THE 29^TH MEETING OF THE THE NATIONAL COUNCIL ON WORKS (NCW)

Protocol

It is my honour and privilege to welcome you on behalf of the Honourable Ministers of Works and the entire staff of the Ministry to this auspicious event of the Maiden Edition of the Mid-Term Review Meeting on the Implementation of Decisions Reached at the 29^th Meeting of the National Council on Works (NCW) that was held last year in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State with theme: “Assessing Renewed Hope Transformation of the Road Transport Sector so far”.

As it sounds, the maiden review meeting was muted at the past Council Meeting following Council Members observation that earlier decisions reached at Council Meetings were rarely monitored or implemented before current meetings are held. The general consensus by Council members on the need to create a platform where National and Sub-National actors could do a review of implemented decisions with a view to ensuring that progress is tracked for the benefits of all Nigerians.

This notation gave birth to this maiden edition by stakeholders to review the implementation of key decisions that was reached in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State to ensure that the Federal and States Government are working towards the same objective of promoting the Renewed Hope Agenda on Infrastructural Development, particularly in the Road Sector.

We therefore thank the Government and the good people of Nasarawa State (the Home of Solid Minerals) for being the trail blazer in hosting this maiden review meeting of Council decisions in the Road Sector.

It is our hope that the outcome of the review meeting will position the sector on a trajectory of growth and development that will cut across government at all levels to deliver on quality road infrastructure development due to well understood policy decisions reached and implemented.

Your attendance at this meeting is a testament of the general commitment and resolve of all stakeholder to ensuring that government policies, programmes and projects are achieved through collaboration by all levels of Government.

I therefore welcome you to this epoch making occasion and call for useful and objective contributions to deliberations on implementation status documents presented by all the stakeholders on the decisions reached at Abakaliki, Ebonyi State.

Thanks and God Bless