Tinubu Tasks Works Ministry on Western-Standard Roads Nationwide

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Ministry of Works to replicate the standard of road infrastructure seen in Western countries across Nigeria.

Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, disclosed this on Saturday during an inspection of the ongoing Abuja–Kaduna–Kano (Zuba–Diko Junction) highway reconstruction project.

According to him, the President is determined to deliver the road as a legacy project, committing substantial resources to ensure its timely completion.

“The President has directed that we replicate what we have in the West here, with all the accompanying facilities, and we will do his bidding,” Umahi said.

He explained that the ministry has now dedicated Saturdays for field inspections, stressing that “we cannot stay in the office and know what is happening on the field. Sharing ideas and strict supervision are critical to the success of this project.”

Breaking down the cost of the project, the minister revealed that Sections 1 and 3, covering 118 kilometres, are valued at ₦252 billion, with ₦60 billion already released. Section 2, covering 72 kilometres of dual carriageway, is being constructed with reinforced concrete and asphalt pavement at ₦507 billion, out of which ₦150 billion has been paid.

“When combined, the entire project up to Kano costs about ₦761 billion. This is highly courageous, and I commend Mr President for his interest in building this road as a priority project,” Umahi said.

He assured Nigerians that the new concrete roads under construction will last more than a century, unlike previous ones that failed within a decade.

The minister, who commended the contractors for the pace of work, warned against substandard delivery, insisting that his integrity is tied to the completion of the project within 14 months.

Umahi further disclosed that the President had directed that no Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC)-funded road project should be abandoned, adding that the ministry will prioritise milestones over mere completion certificates.

Minister of State for Works, Barrister Bello Goronyo, who also joined the inspection, urged the contractors to make up for delays caused by the rainy season.

He maintained that durable roads and bridges are vital to national development as they provide the foundation for economic growth.