By Nkechi Eze
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its determination to accelerate ongoing Federal road and bridge projects in Niger State, following a high-level engagement between the Honourable Minister of Works, H.E. Sen. Engr. David Umahi, and the Governor of Niger State, His Excellency Farmer Umaru Mohammed Bago.
Director of Information and Public Relations of the Federal Ministry of Works, Mohammed Ahmed, disclosed in an official statement that the meeting, held at the Ministry’s headquarters in Mabushi, Abuja, on 28 January 2026, focused on strengthening collaboration to ensure timely delivery of critical infrastructure across the state.
During the meeting, Minister Umahi commended Governor Bago for his proactive interventions on Federal road corridors, highlighting the positive impact of state government projects in areas such as Bida, Minna, and Suleja. He noted that these efforts have not only improved mobility but also stimulated local economic activities.
Acknowledging the challenges of maintaining Federal roads, Engr. Umahi stressed that infrastructure development is a shared responsibility. He assured the Governor of the Federal Government’s support for key projects, including the 71-kilometre Minna–Suleja Road, which has received Bureau of Public Procurement approval and awaits Federal Executive Council consideration. He also noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has personally directed the project’s prioritisation, and any advance intervention funds spent by the state government would be reimbursed.
On ongoing bridge projects, such as the Jebba and Lambata Bridges, the Minister highlighted that integrity tests and expansion joint works are in progress. He further warned against indiscriminate parking, trading activities, and congestion on bridges, which compromise structural integrity, stressing the need for stakeholder engagement to safeguard national assets and prolong their lifespan.
Minister Umahi also disclosed that all ongoing NNPC-funded road projects nationwide have been approved for takeover by the Ministry, in line with Presidential directives, with funding templates being finalised to ensure seamless continuation of works. He directed Ministry officials to provide comprehensive status reports on all Federal road projects in Niger State to facilitate prompt interventions where necessary.
Governor Bago commended the Minister and his team for their responsiveness and collaborative approach. He emphasised Niger State’s strategic importance as Nigeria’s central corridor, noting that over 100,000 trucks traverse its major routes daily. The Governor raised concerns about traffic congestion, infrastructure degradation, and security challenges along key corridors, including Jebba–Lambata–Minna–Suleja, calling for urgent structural assessments, traffic control measures, and accelerated rehabilitation to prevent potential disasters.
Both leaders reiterated their commitment to a sustained partnership aimed at fast-tracking Federal road projects, enhancing road safety, stimulating economic activities, and improving the quality of life for residents of Niger State and Nigerians nationwide.
