Minister of Works David Umahi has disclosed that the administration of President Bola Tinubu has initiated only two new federal highway projects since assuming office, while the majority of ongoing road projects across the country were inherited from previous administrations.
Umahi made the clarification while providing an update on the Federal Government’s road infrastructure programme, explaining that the current administration has focused primarily on completing abandoned and ongoing projects rather than embarking on numerous new ones.
According to the minister, prioritising inherited projects is aimed at ensuring value for public funds, reducing the number of abandoned infrastructure projects and accelerating the delivery of critical road networks that are essential to economic growth and national connectivity.
He identified the two new flagship highway projects as the Lagos Calabar Coastal Highway and the Sokoto Badagry Super Highway, describing them as strategic investments expected to improve transportation, promote regional integration and stimulate economic activities across the country.
The minister noted that several inherited highway projects have witnessed significant progress under the Tinubu administration following increased funding, improved contract management and renewed commitment to infrastructure development.
Umahi said the Federal Government remains committed to rehabilitating and expanding key federal roads to facilitate the movement of people and goods, reduce travel time and enhance road safety. He added that the administration is working closely with contractors to ensure projects are completed according to agreed timelines and quality standards.
He also acknowledged the financial challenges associated with executing large scale infrastructure projects but expressed confidence that ongoing reforms and innovative funding arrangements would enable the government to sustain its road development agenda.
Infrastructure experts have consistently argued that completing existing projects before initiating numerous new ones can help maximise public investment and improve service delivery. They note that abandoned road projects often increase construction costs and delay the economic benefits expected from improved transportation networks.
The Federal Government has repeatedly stated that infrastructure development remains one of the key pillars of its economic agenda, with investments in roads, rail, power and housing expected to support business activities, create jobs and strengthen national development.
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