News
FG Deepens Infrastructure Push with Approval of PPP Road Projects, Solar Lighting, Landscaping, and Upgraded Security Measures
Joel Ajayi
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering durable, innovative, and economically impactful infrastructure across Nigeria, following key approvals and policy directions aimed at accelerating national development.
This was disclosed during a courtesy visit by the Management of the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Limited to the Honourable Minister of Works on Wednesday.
The Honourable Minister of Works, H. E. Sen. (Engr.) David Umahi, CON, FNSE, FNATE disclosed that the President has approved the commencement of an extension of the recently completed Bodo-Bonny Road and Bridges Project in Rivers State to be executed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement, with an estimated cost of about ₦150 billion.
The project is expected to incorporate modern engineering solutions, including the use of concrete technology to ensure long-term durability and minimal maintenance over a lifespan of 50 to 100 years.
The Minister further revealed that the project has been slated for presentation to the Federal Executive Council (FEC) for formal ratification, underscoring the administration’s commitment to due process and transparency in project execution.
As part of efforts to enhance safety, aesthetics, and economic activity along the nation’s road corridors, the government has approved the installation of solar-powered street lighting and the planting of trees. These initiatives are designed to improve night-time visibility, boost security, beautify the corridor, and stimulate commercial activities across the host communities.
In addition, plans are underway to deploy a Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) surveillance system along major highways, complemented by strategically located monitoring centres. This measure is expected to significantly reduce emergency response time to under 10 minutes, thereby strengthening road safety and security management.
The project design also includes the construction of rest areas/relief stations and service facilities to support effective monitoring and maintenance operations.
Contractors have been directed to utilise savings from project costs to further enhance infrastructure through the provision of solar lighting and tree planting, thereby contributing to environmental sustainability.
In a bid to improve logistics and reduce congestion, the government has emphasised the inclusion of truck parking yards at key locations along the project’s corridor.
Engagements with host communities are ongoing to secure suitable land for these facilities, ensuring smooth implementation and community participation. The government has also set a strict project delivery timeline of not more than 12 months from the date of award, with firm provisions to prevent cost variations.
This is aimed at ensuring efficiency, accountability, and value for money.
Commending stakeholders involved in the project, the Honourable Minister noted that the ongoing infrastructure revolution under the current Renewed Hope Administration is unprecedented with a visible impact across all regions of the country.
He emphasised that the government is not only focused on constructing roads but on delivering world-class infrastructure that supports economic growth, enhances safety, and improves the quality of life of Nigerians.
The Federal Government reiterated its resolve to continue exploring innovative solutions, fostering investment, and ensuring that infrastructure development directly benefits communities nationwide.
The Managing Director of NLNG, Engr. Adeleye Falade, in the company of some officials presented a model of a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) ship to the Minister, symbolising NLNG’s commitment to innovation and the promotion of cleaner energy solutions in Nigeria’s transportation and maritime sectors.
The meeting also provided an opportunity for both parties to discuss areas of mutual interest and collaboration in advancing sustainable infrastructure development.
News
Nigeria at 66: ‘We Must Not Lose Faith in Nigeria’ — FCC Boss Omidiran
Joel Ajayi
The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Honorable Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, has called on Nigerians to use the occasion of the nation’s 66th Independence Anniversary to renew their faith in Nigeria, strengthen national unity and recommit themselves to building a more inclusive and prosperous country.
In her 66th Independence Day message, Hon. Omidiran described October 1 as more than a celebration of freedom, saying the anniversary provides an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey, acknowledge its progress and challenges, and renew the collective determination to build a nation where every citizen has a sense of belonging.
According to the FCC Executive Chairman, the Federal Character Principle remains particularly important to the quest for national cohesion because equitable representation promotes a sense of ownership and confidence in the Nigerian project.
“Nigeria is a nation of great diversity and
enormous potential. Our responsibility is to ensure that this diversity becomes a bridge that connects us rather than a barrier that separates us. Every Nigerian deserves to feel that he or she belongs to this country and has a role to play in its development,” Omidiran said.
The FCC boss called on government institutions at all levels to remain committed to fairness, equity, accountability and inclusive governance, while urging citizens to support efforts aimed at strengthening national institutions and promoting peaceful coexistence.
“We must not lose faith in Nigeria. The challenges before us are real, but so are the opportunities and the enormous human and natural resources available to us. Every citizen has a responsibility to contribute his or her own quota to building the Nigeria we desire,” she stated.
The FCC Executive Chairman also urged young Nigerians to remain committed to acquiring knowledge and skills, entrepreneurship, innovation, sports and other productive ventures, describing the youth as critical stakeholders in the country’s future.
“As we celebrate 66 years of independence, let us remember that the Nigeria we want cannot be built by government alone. It requires the commitment of all of us – leaders and citizens, young and old, from every part of the federation. Together, we can build a Nigeria where justice, fairness, opportunity and peace are available to all,” she said.
Omidiran reaffirmed the FCC’s commitment to the effective discharge of its constitutional mandate and to supporting efforts that promote equitable representation and inclusive national development across the federation.
The former lawmaker wished Nigerians at home and abroad a peaceful and memorable 66th Independence Anniversary, praying for continued peace, stability, prosperity and progress for the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Our differences should never be greater than our common identity as Nigerians. Let us continue to choose unity over division, service over self-interest and hope over despair. The Nigeria of our dreams is possible if we all play our part,” Omidiran said.
“On behalf of the Federal Character Commission, I congratulate all Nigerians on this 66th Independence Anniversary. May this occasion renew our patriotism, strengthen our unity and inspire us to work together for a stronger, more equitable and prosperous Nigeria. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” she added.
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