By Henry Umoru

The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, Senator Sani Musa (APC, Niger East), has praised the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, for his commendable efforts in rehabilitating federal roads in Niger State.

In a statement issued on Monday, Senator Musa highlighted Umahi’s proactive leadership and commitment to delivering on the Federal Government’s National Road Master Plan under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“I commend the Honourable Minister of Works, Senator Engineer David Umahi, CON, FNSE, for his dedication to duty and exemplary leadership in steering the Federal Ministry of Works towards achieving the goals of the National Road Master Plan,” Musa stated.

He referenced a recent stakeholder meeting in Abuja, convened by Umahi, to address challenges hindering the timely completion of ten ongoing federal road projects in Niger State. According to Musa, he joined members of the National Assembly from Niger State, led by Governor Mohammed Umar Bago, to discuss the status of these projects.

During the meeting, Governor Bago called for the revocation of the Minna–Suleja road contract, initially awarded in 2010, citing lack of progress. Musa praised Umahi’s decisive actions, including invoking legal provisions to revoke underperforming contracts and reprimanding contractors and ministry staff found to be compromising their duties.

“The Minister’s willingness to take tough measures, including referring erring contractors and officials to the EFCC, exemplifies his commitment to duty and the Renewed Hope Agenda,” Musa said. “This makes him a perfect fit for his role, and I commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing him as the Honourable Minister of Works.”

Musa also acknowledged Umahi’s directives to redesign, re-award, and expedite work on key road projects in the state, including:

The dualization of the Suleja–Lambatta–Minna road (Phase 1 & 2).

Resuming work on the Bida–Lapai–Lambatta road, starting from the Bida–Lapai axis as requested by Governor Bago.

Securing additional funds for the rehabilitation of the Mokwa–Makera–Tegina road project in the 2025 budget.

The Senator lauded the commitment of Governor Bago, whom he described as a “workaholic” and a leader dedicated to ensuring federal road projects in Niger State meet required standards.

“I call on all governors to emulate Governor Bago by engaging with federal contractors in their states to ensure value for money and support Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda for a better Nigeria,” Musa added.

The collaborative efforts between Umahi, Governor Bago, and other stakeholders signal hope for improved road infrastructure and enhanced socio-economic development in Niger State.