The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, has emphasized that a well-developed road network is crucial for achieving food security, eradicating poverty, enhancing security, fostering economic growth, and creating jobs.
Speaking at the opening of a two-day retreat for Highways Engineers and management staff in Abuja, themed “Ensuring Delivery of Mr. President’s Agenda on Road Infrastructural Development,” Umahi highlighted the critical role of infrastructure in national development.
He noted that the current administration’s extensive infrastructural initiatives across the country’s six geopolitical zones aim to boost the economy and improve the overall well-being of citizens.
Umahi reiterated the administration’s dedication to the reconstruction and rehabilitation of major highways in disrepair across the country’s geopolitical zones. He emphasized that these efforts would deliver robust road infrastructure and help ease the hardships faced by citizens.
He explained that the retreat was designed to enhance service delivery, promote efficiency, and foster collaboration in the execution of road projects nationwide. The goal, he stated, is to ensure that government funds allocated to these projects are utilized effectively and provide maximum value.
Addressing the participants, particularly the Ministry’s supervisory staff, Umahi encouraged them to take full advantage of the retreat to refine and strengthen their technical skills.
He expressed confidence that the retreat would equip them with the tools needed to effectively support the implementation of the President’s 8-point agenda.
The Minister emphasized that bad roads significantly restrict people’s movement, likening them to a form of imprisonment.
He urged Highway Engineers to adopt a more professional approach by adhering to internationally recognized engineering standards and practices to successfully implement the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He instructed that, moving forward, contractors must mobilize to project sites before requesting mobilization fees. Recognizing the importance of continuous training for engineers to enhance service delivery, he assured that capacity-building programs would become a regular feature.
Additionally, the Minister directed all Federal Controllers of Works (FCWs) to remove existing speed bumps on federal highways within their states.
He clarified that while speed bumps are acceptable, they must comply with approved designs and specifications before being installed.
In his goodwill message, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Works, Engr. Olufunsho Adebiyi, expressed gratitude to the Ministers for their approval and presence at the event.
He emphasized the need for a swift transformation in service delivery within the road sector.
The Permanent Secretary also formally introduced a team of restructured and committed engineers to the Ministers, highlighting their readiness to support the government in achieving its Renewed Hope Agenda.
Similarly, the Minister of State for Works, Muhammadu Bello Goronyo, praised the leadership qualities of the Minister of Works, describing him as a determined, intelligent, hardworking, and highly professional individual.
He also acknowledged and appreciated the contributions of all stakeholders for their collective efforts in advancing the success of the current administration, particularly in delivering essential road infrastructure.
The Chairman of the House Committee on Works, Akin Alabi, urged the Ministry to intensify its efforts to ensure road
infrastructure effectively serves the needs of citizens.
Similarly, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Sen. Mpigi Barinada, stressed the importance of collaborating with the National Assembly (NASS) to secure proper budget allocations for road projects across the country.
Barinada noted that the Ministry’s accomplishments reflect strong support for President Bola Tinubu’s agenda.