By Joy Onu
The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to fast-tracking key federal road and bridge projects in Niger State, following a strategic meeting between the Minister of Works, Senator Engr. David Umahi, and Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago.
A press release by Mohammed A. Ahmed, Director, Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Works, stated that the January 28, 2026 meeting at the Ministry’s Mabushi headquarters focused on strengthening Federal-State collaboration to address infrastructure gaps, improve road safety, and stimulate economic activity across Niger State.
Highlighting Niger State’s strategic role as the central transport corridor linking northern and southern Nigeria, Governor Bago noted that more than 100,000 trucks traverse the state daily, placing significant pressure on roads and bridges.
He raised concerns over worsening traffic congestion, security challenges, and severe road deterioration, particularly along the Jebba–Lambata–Minna–Suleja corridor. The governor called for urgent structural assessments of the Jebba Bridge and other heavily used bridges, along with improved traffic management and accelerated rehabilitation works to avert potential disasters.
Responding, Minister Umahi commended the governor for his proactive approach to infrastructure development and urban renewal. He noted that several state interventions have positively impacted federal road corridors, particularly in Bida, Minna, and Suleja, improving mobility and boosting economic activities.
The minister emphasised that road development is a shared responsibility, regardless of jurisdiction. He assured the governor of strong federal backing for major projects, including the 71-kilometre Minna–Suleja Road, which has secured approval from the Bureau of Public Procurement and awaits Federal Executive Council consideration.
Umahi revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has personally directed that the project be prioritised, and that any advance intervention funds expended by Niger State on federal roads would be refunded.
On critical infrastructure, the minister confirmed that integrity tests and work on the expansion joints of the Jebba and Lambata bridges are ongoing. He warned against indiscriminate parking, roadside trading, and traffic congestion on bridges, explaining that such practices accelerate structural deterioration.
“Bridges are built for the dynamic flow of traffic, not static loads,” Umahi said, adding that the ministry will engage transport unions, tanker drivers, and other stakeholders to protect national assets and extend the lifespan of bridges nationwide.
The minister also disclosed that all ongoing road projects previously funded by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited across the country have been approved for takeover by the Ministry of Works, in line with presidential directives. Funding templates are being finalised to ensure seamless continuation of works.
To strengthen oversight, Umahi directed ministry officials to compile comprehensive status reports on all federal road projects in Niger State to enable prompt intervention where necessary.
Governor Bago expressed appreciation to the minister and his team for their responsiveness and collaborative approach. He also commended the Federal Government for the ongoing concrete pavement works on the Abuja–Kaduna Expressway and urged that similar durable solutions be applied to other major highways nationwide.
The meeting ended with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to fast-track project delivery, improve road safety, boost economic growth, and enhance the quality of life for residents of Niger State and Nigerians nationwide.
