The Honourable Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammad Goronyo on Monday, has inspected ongoing major maintenance works on the Zuba–Abaji dual carriageway, which was rerouted to the Dei-Dei-Dakwa Abuja/Kaduna Junction Road.
Accompanying the Minister was the Managing Director of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), Engr. Chukwuemeka Agbasi, and other officials as the inspection team commended the agency for executing high-quality, durable reconstruction work, particularly noting the efficiency of the drainage system in managing stormwater runoff.
This road serves as a major commercial route, facilitating economic activities in the region while residents and road users expressed their appreciation for the rehabilitation efforts, highlighting the significant relief it has brought to mobility challenges previously caused by the road’s poor condition.
Speaking during the inspection, the Minister urged community members to take ownership of the infrastructure by protecting the road and refraining from activities that could damage it.
According to the statement released by the Ministry, he emphasized the need to prevent indiscriminate speed bump installations and to keep drainage systems clear to mitigate flooding, especially during the rainy season.
The Minister also acknowledged President Bola Tinubu’s administration prioritizing infrastructure development, particularly in the road sector, which is vital for economic growth. He reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the successful execution of these projects in line with the administration’s vision.
In his remarks, FERMA’s Managing Director, Engr. Chukwuemeka Agbasi stressed the agency’s continuous efforts to preserve road infrastructure.
“One of our major challenges is ensuring that drainage structures are regularly de-silted to allow for free flow of water. Water is the biggest threat to road longevity, and we’re working closely with local communities to keep drainage channels clear,” he stated. In a related development, Engr. Agbasi announced that the agency has acquired new equipment through the support of the Japanese government.
The Honourable Minister of State for Works expressed gratitude for this generous contribution and encouraged FERMA staff to utilize the equipment effectively for the nation’s benefit.
He emphasized the importance of hard work in national development, stating, “With our population and resources, the sky is our limit. Nobody will do this work for us. For those who have been trained, ensure you handle these machines properly.” The Managing Director of FERMA also encouraged the agency’s mechanical staff, who have undergone specialized training on the new equipment, to apply their knowledge effectively. He reassured them of the government’s continued support in enhancing their capacity.
Engr. Sani Adamu, Head of Mechanical Services at FERMA, showcased the newly acquired equipment before the Minister and his delegation.
He highlighted that FERMA had been striving for this milestone since 2018 and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to maximizing the benefits of these new resources.
He further assured that the technical staff, having undergone extensive training, are fully prepared to commence operations with the equipment as soon as possible.
