In a bid to address the pressing issue of infrastructure in Nigeria, Works Minister David Umahi has announced that President Tinubu has approved a series of road rehabilitation projects totaling approximately N217 billion.
This move comes as part of the government’s commitment to improving road networks across the country, with a focus on safety and accessibility.
The approved projects encompass an array of road interventions, including emergency repairs and upgrades. Notably, the plan includes the resurfacing of the Third Mainland Bridge, a critical route in Lagos. Furthermore, the construction of the Lekki Deep Seaport road, re-construction of two collapsed bridges in Enugu, and the reconstruction of two segments on the Onitsha-Owerri road are among the vital projects set to be implemented.
Minister Umahi expressed his appreciation for the President’s proactive stance on reinstating Nigeria’s roads to their optimal state. He highlighted the grave condition of the country’s road infrastructure and noted that public concerns have been mounting. However, he reassured the public that every road intervention proposal he presented to President Tinubu had been approved, emphasizing the President’s strong commitment to improving the nation’s roads.
The Minister revealed that President Tinubu had approved over 260 road interventions in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. The significant road interventions encompass vital repairs and bridge reconstruction projects. Notable mentions include addressing damage from floods along the East-West Road, which has sustained approximately 17 points of destruction.
Additionally, the President approved the repair of two bridges in Enugu and improvements to two locations on the Onitsha-Owerri Road. The Lokoja-Abuja Road is also slated for reconstruction. Minister Umahi further emphasized that these projects are in addition to the 260 emergency repairs across the nation, which are estimated to cost around N217 billion.
The President’s approval also extends to the upgrading of the Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Lafia road, an ongoing project operated through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with Chinese investors. In addition, the Lafia bypass dualization and the construction of the Lekki Deep Seaport access road are part of the expansive plan to rejuvenate Nigeria’s road network.
These approvals demonstrate the commitment of the government to address the deteriorating state of roads across the country. With a focus on safety, connectivity, and accessibility, these projects aim to provide sustainable solutions to Nigeria’s pressing infrastructure challenges.
