By Jabiru Hassan
The Minister of State for Works, Muhammad Bello Goronyo, Esq., has emphasized that over 35,000 kilometres of Nigeria’s federal road network cannot be funded solely through annual budgets, stressing the need for alternative financing.
Goronyo made this statement on Monday, February 17, 2025, during a visit to the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) Field Office in Lokoja, Kogi State. He was accompanied by the Managing Director/CEO of FERMA, Engr. Chukwumeka Agbasi.
Commitment to Infrastructure Development
The minister reaffirmed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is committed to fixing roads nationwide to address unemployment, crime, and insecurity.
“Let me commend President Tinubu for his determination. I have never seen a President so committed to sustaining physical assets nationwide. His administration prioritizes road projects across the country, showing true patriotism. These projects will boost the economy and reduce unemployment, poverty, and crime. We are seeing progress with super highways like the Ilelah-Sokoto-Badagry and Lagos-Calabar routes.”
Goronyo commended FERMA staff for their dedication despite challenges like insecurity and inadequate funding. He assured them that their requests for salary adjustments and increments had been forwarded to the Salaries, Income, and Wages Commission for approval.
Need for Alternative Road Funding
Goronyo stressed that maintaining 35,000 kilometres of roads is an enormous task that requires new funding strategies.
“These roads cannot be funded and maintained overnight. We need alternative funding sources to sustain our physical assets. Our goal is to ensure timely and efficient project completion with strict oversight and contractor compliance.”
He urged all stakeholders to support President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasizing the importance of putting Nigeria’s interests first.
FERMA’s Road Projects in Kogi State
During the visit, FERMA’s Kogi Field Office Officer, Engr. Muktar Abdurahim, provided an update on road projects in the state:
- 37 staff members (25 permanent, 12 casual).
- 16 federal roads spanning 1,263 kilometres in Kogi.
- 2024 nationwide floods did not affect roads in the state.
- Six ongoing road projects – five completed, one at 60% completion.
- Challenges include insecurity and rising costs of construction materials.
Government’s Commitment to Road Infrastructure
FERMA MD/CEO Engr. Chukwumeka Agbasi commended the Ministry of Works for its commitment to road projects under Tinubu’s 8-point agenda. He assured staff of a salary increment before the year’s end.
Similarly, Engr. Omotayo Awodun, Director of North Central Zone I, praised the federal government’s infrastructure efforts and the Minister of Works’ leadership style, which enforces new techniques and stricter supervision.
With these initiatives, the Ministry of Works and FERMA are focused on ensuring Nigeria’s roads remain safe, functional, and well-maintained.
