AKOR SYLVESTER, Abuja
The Minister of State for Works, Muhammad Bello Goronyo, has indicated that funding for the Federal Government’s road network of over 35,000 kilometers across Nigeria cannot solely depend on Annual Budgets and will require alternative sources of funding outside the government’s resources.
Goronyo made this remark during his first visit to the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) Kogi State Field Office in Lokoja, alongside the Managing Director, Engr. Chukwuemeka Agbasi.
He emphasized that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is committed to improving the nation’s roads to significantly reduce unemployment, crime, and insecurity.
He said, “I must commend President Tinubu for his unwavering commitment. I’ve never seen a President so dedicated to maintaining national infrastructure. His administration prioritizes various road projects across the country, demonstrating his patriotism. These projects aim to improve the economy and reduce unemployment, poverty, and crime. We are witnessing the development of super highways such as from Ilelah to Sokoto to Badagry, and another from Lagos to Calabar.”
Goronyo also acknowledged FERMA’s staff for their persistence and dedication despite challenges such as insecurity and limited funding, stating that their work has received commendation from Nigerians for its excellence.
He encouraged them to remain patient with the Ministry of Works regarding their entitlements, noting that their requests for salary adjustments and increases have been submitted to the Salaries, Income, and Wages Commission for consideration.
On the topic of road maintenance funding, Goronyo emphasized that “the maintenance of 35,000 kilometers of roads cannot be achieved overnight. We must explore alternative funding sources to maintain our roads. New methods and funding alternatives must be established.” He assured that the government is committed to completing projects efficiently with strong oversight and contractor accountability.
He further stated, “I urge all of you to support us in ensuring President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s success in delivering his 8-point Renewed Hope Agenda. We must put Nigeria’s interests first. Let’s focus on fixing our roads and think positively.”
Earlier, FERMA’s Managing Director and CEO, Engr. Chukwumeka Agbasi, praised the Ministry of Works for its resolve in realizing President Tinubu’s agenda, particularly road projects across the nation. He informed the staff that salary increments would be implemented before the end of the year and urged continued collaboration with the Ministry to achieve set goals.
Engineer Muktar Abdurahim, the officer in charge of the Kogi Field Office, informed the Minister that the office employs thirty-seven staff members, with 25 permanent and 12 casual workers. He reported that Kogi State has 16 Federal Government roads totaling 1,263 kilometers, and none were impacted by the nationwide floods of 2024. Of the six ongoing road projects in the state, five are completed, and one is 60% finished.
He also mentioned that challenges such as insecurity and rising construction material costs are affecting progress.
In a statement signed by Mohammed A. Ahmed, Director of Press and Public Relations, Engr. Omotayo Awodun, Director of North Central Zone I, praised the Federal Government’s commitment to improving Federal roads, especially in his zone. The statement also highlighted the Minister’s leadership, noting the implementation of innovative techniques and enhanced supervision in road projects.
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