Umahi to Reps Chairman: “You're Against Road Reforms”

Umahi Fires Back at Reps Chairman

“You are not here to tell us what we already know in the area of resources...”

Ohanaeze Ndigbo defends Minister of Works David Umahi amid controversy, urging lawmakers to maintain decorum and avoid baseless criticisms. They suggest a tour of ongoing projects to understand Umahi's strategic approach to infrastructure rehabilitation and improvement.

David Umahi, Nigeria's Minister of Works, has fired back at Remi Oseni, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on FERMA, accusing him of being a mouthpiece for contractors resisting reforms in the ministry. Umahi made it clear that the Federal Government needs a staggering #19 trillion to fix Nigeria's roads, highlighting President Bola Tinubu's commitment to prioritizing funding for road repairs nationwide.

Reforms and Funding

Umahi's statement comes as the Ministry of Works is pushing for reforms, aimed at improving road infrastructure across Nigeria. With President Tinubu at the helm, the government is determined to allocate necessary funds for road repairs, demonstrating its dedication to enhancing the country's transportation network.

Background on David Umahi

As the current Minister of Works, David Umahi brings a wealth of experience to the table, having served as Governor of Ebonyi State from 2015 to 2023 and Deputy Governor from 2011 to 2015. His appointment as Minister of Works was announced by President Bola Tinubu in August 2023.

David Umahi, Nigeria's Minister of Works, has fired back at Remi Oseni, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on FERMA, accusing him of being a mouthpiece for contractors resisting reforms in the ministry. Umahi made it clear that the Federal Government needs a staggering #19 trillion to fix Nigeria's roads, highlighting President Bola Tinubu's commitment to prioritizing funding for road repairs nationwide.

Oseni recently criticized FERMA representative Umahi for not addressing Nigeria's deteriorating roads. Oseni challenged Umahi's claim that lack of resources was the reason, saying, “You are not here to tell us what we already know in the area of resources. So, if you are telling us the reason you have failed in fixing our road infrastructure is because of resources, don't let me take you up on that because you concentrated your energy as a minister on less priority issues.”

Umahi responded, clarifying that he didn't attend the recent House of Representatives event. He chose not to criticize the committee chairman out of respect for Speaker Tajudeen Abass. This exchange highlights the tension between Oseni and Umahi regarding Nigeria's road infrastructure.

Pointers:

Oseni's Criticism: Oseni criticized Umahi for not addressing Nigeria's deteriorating roads.

Umahi's Response: Umahi clarified that he didn't attend the recent House of Representatives event.

Reason for Absence: Umahi chose not to criticize the committee chairman out of respect for Speaker Tajudeen Abass.

David Umahi, Nigeria's Minister of Works, has fired back at criticisms from Remi Oseni, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on FERMA. Speaking from his office in Abuja, Umahi confidently stated that he's never experienced failure in his illustrious career, which spans over two decades. He urged Oseni to reflect on his own achievements, both personally and publicly, emphasizing that Oseni hasn't reached half of what he's accomplished.

Umahi's impressive track record includes serving as Governor of Ebonyi State from 2015 to 2023 and Deputy Governor from 2011 to 2015. He was also elected as Senator representing Ebonyi South senatorial district in June 2023. With such a remarkable background, it's no surprise that Umahi feels he's achieved far more than Oseni.

Despite his strong response, Umahi chose to take the high road, making it clear that he wouldn't engage in a dispute with the lawmaker. He maintained his respect for the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the National Assembly, demonstrating his commitment to upholding the dignity of public office. This measured approach showcases Umahi's maturity and leadership skills, honed from years of experience in governance.

“Let me say that I was not physically present, nor my permanent secretary, because nobody can talk to me like that in my presence. It's not possible. Number two, it was to discuss the budget 2025 of FERMA, and it went into the job of Senate Committee and House Committee of Works, and it's very unfortunate.

“And from what he gathered, he thought possibly working with some contractors who are not happy with the reform in the Ministry of Works, he thought I was going to be removed. And so his anger is, why was I not removed?

“Because that's the basic reason to have veered off totally from the issues he called for discussion. And his type is very damaging to the very wonderful institution of the National Assembly, especially the 10th National Assembly,” Umahi said.

As of May 29, 2023, Nigeria's Minister of Works reported that the country had spent a staggering #13 trillion on ongoing projects, with an additional #1.6 trillion still owed to contractors.

This massive investment highlights the government's efforts to boost infrastructure development, particularly in the road sector, which accounts for about 90% of passenger and freight movement across Nigeria. The significant expenditure and outstanding debt underscore the complexity and scale of Nigeria's infrastructure challenges.

“And when you look at the variation by reason of the subsidy removal, by the reason of the floating of the dollar, you'll find out that if you review all these projects, you will see that you will get over N19 trillion, the total ongoing projects.

“And Mr. President did what no other president did. He manifested all the projects in 2024 budget with the hope to give him time to look for resources, including loans to do these projects,” he added.

David Umahi, Nigeria's Minister of Works, made it clear that he didn't attend a recent House meeting, choosing not to discuss resource availability for road repairs. He emphasized that President Bola Tinubu has already prioritized the Ministry of Works, indicating significant support for infrastructure development.

In essence, Umahi is confident that the president's commitment to the ministry will address the country's road repair needs, making further discussion on resource constraints unnecessary. This stance reflects Umahi's faith in the current administration's dedication to improving Nigeria's infrastructure.

“He has paid so much attention to the sufferings of Nigerians vis-a-vis the road situation. And that's why in 2023 supplementary, he approved N300 billion to take care of a number of palliatives,” Umahi added.

David Umahi, Nigeria's Minister of Works, emphasized the unrealistic expectation of completing projects that have been ongoing for nearly 20 years within just one year. He urged lawmakers to understand the intricacies involved in the Ministry's projects, highlighting the need for a more nuanced approach.

Umahi's stance is rooted in his experience as a civil engineer and politician, having served as Governor of Ebonyi State from 2015 to 2023 and Deputy Governor from 2011 to 2015. His background in engineering gives him a unique perspective on the complexities of infrastructure development.

As Minister of Works, Umahi has already taken significant steps, such as paying N4 trillion of the N14 trillion inherited debt owed to contractors and reviewing road contracts for effective monitoring. His focus is on completing the 2,604 road projects spanning 18,000 kilometers inherited from the previous administration.

Umahi's message is clear: completing long-standing projects requires time, understanding, and a thorough grasp of the Ministry's processes.

“If there is something we are successfully doing, it's to ensure that when a project is awarded, we go through the sites. The directors from time to time are sent to the field apart from the controllers. I move around the geopolitical zones, examine projects, talking to contractors, pushing contractors.

“We've terminated over 10 projects following due process. Some of them have lasted 17 years, 18 years. And so, we are doing very well,” Umahi added.

Nigeria's Minister of Works, David Umahi, has underscored the unrealistic expectation of completing 2,604 ongoing projects within a single year, emphasizing that even abundant resources wouldn't be enough. Despite this challenge, Umahi commended President Bola Tinubu's significant efforts to enhance the country's road infrastructure, particularly notable in projects like the Second Niger Bridge and Abuja-Keffi Expressway.

Umahi issued an ultimatum to Julius Berger, stating that if they fail to return to the site by October 30, the ministry will terminate their contract and proceed with selective tendering, involving at least three contractors. This move aims to ensure timely completion of critical projects.

Regarding the Sokoto-Funtua-Kaduna route, Umahi revealed that three contractors are currently managing the project. However, he expressed concern over alarming safety issues, including the killings of expatriates and the abduction of over 50 contractors and workers along the route. This highlights the need for enhanced security measures to protect workers and ensure the project's success.

Projects and Initiatives:

Second Niger Bridge: Completed and handed over to the federal government 

Abuja-Keffi Expressway: Set to implement cashless tolling system 

Sokoto-Funtua-Kaduna Route: Managed by three contractors, with concerns over safety issues

Highway Development and Management Initiative: Aims to promote sustainable transportation ecosystem.

Minister of Works David Umahi has assured that President Bola Tinubu is committed to addressing the challenges facing road infrastructure development. Despite the difficulties, Umahi stated that the president has instructed the National Security Adviser to ensure the safety of workers in the area, which has seen killings of expatriates and the abduction of over 50 contractors and workers along the Sokoto-Funtua-Kaduna route.

Umahi highlighted several ongoing projects, showcasing the federal government's efforts to maintain roads under these challenging conditions. Key projects include the Second Niger Bridge, Abuja-Keffi Expressway, and the Highway Development and Management Initiative (HDMI), which aims to promote a strong and sustainable transportation ecosystem. The HDMI has approved 1,374km of roads across nine corridors, expected to generate N11.54 trillion in revenue over 25 years.

To enhance road infrastructure, the federal government is implementing a cashless tolling system on the Abuja-Keffi Expressway and dualizing the Keffi-Akwanga-Markurdi road. This initiative aims to improve the quality and quantity of road assets, stimulate economic growth, and provide relief stations with amenities like supermarkets, clinics, and security outfits. With the president's support, Umahi is confident that these efforts will propel rapid economic development and improve the nation's transportation network.

“But these things cannot be done overnight. The Minister of Works is not the only minister in this country. Mr. President has a lot of other challenging situations. The parliament is doing great in agriculture, in our energy, in our education, in our health, but he has given priority attention to the Minister of Works. And he should be commended for what he's doing. And the ministry should be commended.

“It's very unfortunate that a lot of contractors, who by right are not supposed to be contractors, are going up and down, inducing people to be talking anyhow. If you have issues with Minister of Works, engage us, even publicly,” the minister said.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the prominent Igbo socio-cultural organization, has come out in support of Minister of Works David Umahi, praising his efforts in tackling Nigeria's deteriorating road infrastructure. In a statement released by Secretary General Okechukwu Isiguzoro, the organization expressed concerns that recent allegations against Umahi are nothing more than a smear campaign.

Umahi, who assumed office on August 21, 2023, has been working tirelessly to address the nation's infrastructure challenges. As a civil engineer and former governor of Ebonyi State, he brings a wealth of experience to the role. Under his leadership, the Ministry of Works has made significant strides in road construction and rehabilitation.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo's endorsement is a testament to Umahi's capabilities and commitment to improving Nigeria's infrastructure. The organization's statement highlights the importance of supporting leaders who are making a positive impact, rather than succumbing to baseless allegations and misinformation. With Umahi at the helm, Nigerians can expect continued progress in addressing the country's infrastructure needs.

“It is imperative to state unequivocally that these allegations, which purport that Umahi has failed to address the deteriorating state of roads across the nation and is merely engaged in the awarding of contracts, are nothing short of calumnious and deeply irresponsible” Ohanaeze said.

“Oseni's remarks, lacking in both substantive evidence and intellectual rigour, have caused deep concern within the corridors of reason and fairness.”

Ohanaeze Ndigbo is calling for respect and constructive dialogue between the House of Representatives and the Minister of Works. They want lawmakers to engage with the minister in a manner that reflects his position's dignity, promoting meaningful discussions to address concerns without resorting to unfounded accusations. This approach fosters a virtuous cycle of constructive civic engagement, where diverse voices are heard, and trust is built.

By doing so, lawmakers can effectively represent their constituents, build trust, and advance civic education. This is crucial for developing sound policies that address real-world challenges and improve lives. Effective constituent engagement requires transparency, accessibility, responsiveness, authenticity, inclusivity, and consistency.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo's statement highlights the importance of respectful dialogue in addressing the nation's infrastructure challenges. By working together, lawmakers and the Minister of Works can find solutions that benefit everyone.

“It is crucial to highlight that a thorough investigation and an assessment of the real-world initiatives undertaken by Senator Umahi in his capacity as Minister have not only been overlooked but grossly misrepresented.

“Under Senator Umahi's stewardship, significant strides have been made in enhancing the quality of road infrastructure across the country. His unwavering commitment to addressing the endemic problem of bad roads is evident in the tangible improvements that have been achieved, despite the constraints of budgetary allocations,” the apex Igbo body said.

Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Secretary General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has called on lawmakers to maintain a respectful tone when interacting with Minister of Works David Umahi, avoiding baseless criticisms. Instead, Isiguzoro suggested that lawmakers join Umahi on a tour of ongoing projects nationwide to gain insight into his strategic approach to infrastructure rehabilitation and improvement. This comes amid controversy surrounding the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project, which has been criticized by Peter Obi and others. Ohanaeze Ndigbo has defended Umahi, urging constructive dialogue over public confrontations to ensure the Southeast region benefits from the project.