Fatshimetrie, the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, announced at the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja on Tuesday, June 25, that the emergency repair works of 330 roads and bridges across the country, worth over N500 billion, were about 80 per cent complete. The Ministry of Finance has fully released N300 billion for these projects, and full details and progress status will be released next week.
In a bid to ensure the quality and sustainability of the Umulungbe-Umuoka road in Enugu State, the construction cost has been revised upwards from N6.245 billion to N8.85 billion, an increase of about N2.6 billion. Similarly, the cost of repairing the Iganmu Bridge in Lagos State increased from N1.16 billion to N2.229 billion.
Meanwhile, the Calabar to Udopkani road doubling project leading to Itu road in Cross River State was revised to a rigid carriageway with reinforced structure, increasing from N79.649 billion to N118.412 billion. The FEC also approved the immediate procurement for the comprehensive rehabilitation of the Katsina-Dustsinma-Maraban road in Katsina State.
It should be noted that the approved cost variations are a necessary measure to ensure the quality of infrastructure and meet the growing mobility needs of citizens. It is essential that road and bridge construction projects are carried out transparently and efficiently, to ensure the safety and comfort of users.
In short, the measures taken by the federal government to improve the country’s road infrastructure are encouraging. It is essential to maintain regular monitoring of the progress of projects and to ensure effective management of allocated resources to guarantee sustainable results. The development of transport infrastructure is a key element in stimulating the economy and improving the quality of life of citizens.