Works ministry seeks to repair 260 roads

The Ministry of Works says it has sought the approval of the Federal Government to undergo quick rehabilitation and intervention of 260 critically failed road projects across the federation.

The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, who made the announcement during the inauguration of four task force committees on Thursday, said N217bn would be needed to fund the projects.

Speaking at the ministry headquarters in Abuja, Umahi said the affected roads were picked from the different motions raised by members of the national assembly, outcries of the public and compilations from federal controllers, adding that the president has directed the submission of the proposal for further discussions at the Federal Executive Council meeting.

He said, “Let me graciously announce that the ministry has contacted Mr President on 260 projects that need very immediate and quick intervention across the federation. The projects were from the motions of the national assembly, an outcry of the public and compilations from our federal controllers of our states and the total cost is N217bn.

“We have sent it to Mr President and the national assembly is aware and he has directed that we submit the proposal at the Federal Executive Council meeting for discussions.

“I want to say that road infrastructure is one of the key factors for the revolution of our commerce, education, security and power in this country and Mr President is committed to our road infrastructure.”

Umahi revealed that the president had approved separate funds for the reconstruction of eight failed roads and bridges including, the Third Mainland Bridge, Shadam-Lafia Bridge, Enugu Bridge, and East-West Roads among others to improve the country’s road network.

The minister, warning contractors that projects awarded under his tenure would be solely constructed on concrete pavement, stated that he won’t attend FEC meetings to plead for augmentation.