By Jabiru Hassan
The (FERMA) has submitted a proposed budget of ₦229.999 billion for the 2026 fiscal year, aimed at strengthening road maintenance operations and improving national connectivity. The appropriation includes ₦191 billion for capital expenditure, ₦5 billion for personnel costs, and ₦33 billion for overhead expenses.
The budget proposal was presented during the 2025 Appropriation Act performance review and 2026 budget defense before the Joint Senate and House Committees on FERMA.
Presenting the proposal, the Minister of State for Works and Supervising Minister of FERMA, Hon. Bello Goronyo, Esq., highlighted that while FERMA has the technical expertise to execute its mandate effectively, insufficient funding remains a key constraint. He noted that the 2026 allocations are strategically distributed across all states, reflecting FERMA’s commitment to equitable and impactful road maintenance nationwide.
“It is envisaged that, with your support, the implementation of the 2025 five percent fossil fuel surcharge, as provided under Section 159 of the New Task Force Act, will include FERMA in the distribution template. This aligns with global best practices and will enable the Agency to more effectively fulfill its mandate,” Hon. Goronyo stated.
He commended the Committees for their oversight and partnership, describing legislative support as crucial for unlocking FERMA’s operational capacity. “With your approval, we can accelerate critical road interventions nationwide and ensure that Nigeria’s roads become true engines for economic growth and national unity,” he added.
The Managing Director/CEO of FERMA, Engr. Chukwuemeka Agbasi, reiterated the Agency’s funding challenges and highlighted key achievements in 2025, including:
- 200.82 km of roads maintained
- 31,574.29 square metres of potholes patched
- 1,655.89 km of roads made motorable
- 10,311 metres of drainage constructed
- 19 washouts reinstated
- 3 bridges maintained
- 4,013 streetlight poles installed
Engr. Agbasi noted ongoing challenges, including inadequate budgetary releases, distressed and aged pavements, road abuse, climate-related emergencies, and security concerns in certain regions. He emphasized the importance of aligning national budget cycles with procurement timelines to ensure road projects are executed during the dry season for better efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Sen. Sahabi Yau, Chairman of the Senate Committee on FERMA, and Hon. Engr. Aderemi Oseni, Chairman of the House Committee on FERMA, alongside other committee members, commended the Agency’s visible efforts in maintaining federal roads. Hon. Oseni urged FERMA to continue improving project delivery standards and ensure value for money, while Sen. Yau encouraged sustained performance and efficiency in response to legislative feedback.
The proposed 2026 budget reflects FERMA’s strategic focus on improving federal road infrastructure, enhancing national connectivity, and supporting economic growth through a safer and more resilient road network.
