In response to public concerns regarding the deteriorating state of Federal roads across the nation, the Federal Government has announced the initiation of palliative road projects in all 36 States and the Federal Capital Territory, starting before December 1, 2023. The announcement was made by the Federal Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, who addressed the pressing issue and outlined the government’s plan to address the deplorable conditions of certain key roadways.
The Ministry of Works released an official statement on Monday, confirming the commencement of the palliative road projects and providing detailed information on the plan. Minister Dave Umahi highlighted the challenges inherited by the current administration, citing examples such as the Makurdi-Nsukka 9th Mile Road, East-West Road, Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway, Benin bypass road, collapsed bridges on the Enugu-Port Harcourt road, and others.
President Tinubu has approved N100 billion out of the N300 billion allocated to the Ministry of Works for immediate palliative works. Minister Umahi emphasized that these projects must kick off before December 1, 2023, with strict adherence to due process. Specific attention has been given to the sections of roads frequently complained about by the public in both the North and South regions of the country, with immediate actions initiated and work already underway.
Umahi encouraged public participation and vigilance in monitoring ongoing projects, urging citizens to report poorly constructed roads. He provided contact numbers (08030986263, 08037086137, or 08106423197) for reporting, requesting details such as the name of the contractor, location, type of contract, and observed defects. The Federal Ministry of Works is committed to verifying and taking effective action based on these reports.
Additionally, Umahi announced that the Federal Ministry of Works would publicly recognize and engage with individuals who make genuine reports in a quarterly public engagement forum. The ministry is also prepared to publicly sanction contractors found to be in violation of standards. The call for citizen involvement aims to ensure transparency, accountability, and value for the funds invested in the road infrastructure sector.
