Umahi Explains Why Tinubu Is Borrowing, Says Funds Target Road Infrastructure

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, says President Bola Tinubu is borrowing to finance major road projects across the country, arguing that infrastructure remains the backbone of security, commerce, and economic development.

 

Umahi made the remarks in Abuja during a visit by the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to the Ministry of Works.

 

“When people say, ‘Why is he borrowing?’ the president is borrowing so that our roads can be good. Infrastructure, roads, everything. Without roads, it’s difficult for the security agencies. Without roads, it’s difficult for commerce to thrive. Without roads, schools will be hindered,” Umahi said.

 

He noted that over 80 per cent of ongoing road projects, valued at about ₦34 trillion, were inherited from previous administrations, some dating as far back as 2000, 2015 and 2017. According to him, the Tinubu administration retained the projects due to their importance to national development.

 

Umahi added that the government has adopted reinforced concrete pavement technology, which he said would ensure roads last between 50 and 100 years without major repairs.

 

He highlighted key projects under the administration, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, Sokoto-Badagry Highway, Calabar–Abuja corridor, and the Akwanga–Maiduguri route, describing them as investment-driven initiatives aimed at economic transformation.

 

According to him, the 47.47-kilometre Section One of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway has been completed and is already attracting investor interest for tolling and cost recovery.

 

Umahi also disclosed that 118 kilometres of the Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano road have been completed under a solar lighting upgrade project valued at ₦252 billion, with the second phase expected to be delivered by November.

 

On security, the minister said insecurity had delayed work in some locations but praised security agencies for supporting ongoing construction activities.

 

He further revealed plans to introduce security infrastructure such as CCTV, solar lighting, rest areas and observation centres along major highways across the country under concession arrangements.

 

Umahi urged Nigerians to support the administration’s reforms, adding that criticism should be constructive.

 

“My prayer is that God will see the president through… I don’t believe that they can do better. So it’s good for the president to continue the next five years,” he said.