With the festive travel rush approaching, Works Minister David Umahi has ordered road officials across Nigeria to get major federal highways moving again—fast.
At a meeting on Friday, Umahi gave zonal directors and field engineers three weeks to tackle impassable stretches, repair potholes and carry out urgent roadwork.
The Minister’s message was clear: permanent construction must not come at the expense of people travelling on dangerous or broken roads.
The directive covers key routes across the country, including Abuja–Lokoja, Kano–Katsina, Benin–Warri and several highways in the South-East.
Contractors have been told to cooperate with ministry officials and carry out temporary repairs where needed. Those who fail to act are to be reported.
Umahi also ordered officials to inspect projects in person, report road conditions and urgent problems through a dedicated WhatsApp platform, flag emergencies—such as roads cut off or bridges at risk—without delay.
He plans to visit the zones beginning Monday to check progress.
The goal is immediate relief for motorists as travel increases during the festive season, while long-term construction continues. Officials who deliver, the minister said, may be recognised with special awards.