Highways secured: FG, Police strengthen ties for safer roads

In a significant move to bolster national security and infrastructure development, the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Works, and the Police Force have reaffirmed their commitment to a deepened partnership.

This collaboration aims to safeguard the critical national infrastructure and to enhance security along major highways across the country.

Senator Engr. David Umahi, the Minister of Works, lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for its impactful road infrastructure development initiatives across all six geopolitical zones.

He emphasized the Federal Government’s dedication to working closely with the Nigeria Police to protect these vital assets and improve safety on the nation’s roads.

The reaffirmation came during a working visit by the Nigeria Police delegation, led by Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Olatunji Rilwan Disu, to the Federal Ministry of Works in Abuja.

Discussions during the visit centered on improving security around ongoing road projects, while fostering inter-agency cooperation, and advancing national
developmental objectives.
IGP Disu highlighted the Force’s unwavering commitment to strengthen its strategic partnership with the Works Ministry.

He underscored the importance of protecting critical infrastructure and ensuring safer highways nationwide, particularly in light of a recent surge in the theft and vandalism of road furniture.

The IGP also requested logistical support from the Ministry to reposition the Nigeria Police Highway Patrol Unit.
Commending the Minister for the transformative changes in Nigeria’s road sector, IGP Disu described roads as essential links for national unity, economic growth, social interaction,
and public safety.

He noted that well-maintained roads not only connect communities but also create employment opportunities, stimulate commerce, and contribute to crime reduction by expanding economic activities.

The IGP further pledged the Force’s readiness to enhance security presence along major highways and critical project corridors, stressing that effective highway security is paramount for sustainable national development and economic stability.
He also pointed out that some ongoing road projects have garnered national and international attention due to their economic, tourist, sporting potentials, which improved infrastructure would further unlock.

In response, Minister Umahi expressed gratitude to the IGP and the Nigeria Police for their continuous support in securing road projects, especially in areas facing security challenges.

He praised IGP Disu as a dependable, disciplined, and professional officer whose dedication reinforces public confidence in the police force.
The Minister also welcomed the proactive security initiatives under the IGP’s leadership, recognizing them as timely measures for enhancing peace, public safety, and national stability.

Engr. Umahi emphasized that the success of the Federal Government’s ambitious road development agenda would be unattainable without the commitment and sacrifices of
security agencies.

These agencies tirelessly protect project sites, personnel, equipment, and installed furnishings such as solar panels, lights, batteries, poles, and CCTV systems.
He noted that many strategic road projects in insecurity-prone areas would have been difficult to execute without the support of the Nigeria Police and other security agencies.

The Minister highlighted the ongoing four Renewed Hope Legacy Road Projects and other strategic infrastructure developments across the country, assuring that no geopolitical zone has been overlooked in President Tinubu’s development agenda.

He also applauded the President’s determination to reposition Nigeria’s infrastructure landscape, explaining
that govt borrowings are strategically directed towards economically viable and critical infrastructure projects aimed at improving transportation, boosting the commerce, and enhancing the quality of life for Nigerians.
Umahi further revealed that the administration has adopted reinforced concrete pavement technology for several strategic road projects to ensure durability and long-term value.

He disclosed that the Ministry has begun integrating modern security features into major infrastructure projects, including surveillance systems, observation facilities, rest stations, and collaborative response mechanisms with security agencies along strategic highways.

He also proposed integrating a dedicated police security architecture into highway development plans, including designated security checkpoints, patrol bases, and
operational centers for intelligence gathering and emergency response.

Hon. Bello M. Goronyo, the Honourable Minister of State for Works, echoed these sentiments, commending the IGP for his leadership and dedication to national security.
He stressed the critical importance of security support for the infrastructure development and reaffirmed President Tinubu’s commitment to providing the necessary budgetary support for quality road and projects that drive economic growth, connectivity, and national integration.

Mr. Rafiu Adeladan, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, concluded with a vote of thanks, acknowledging the existing collaboration between the Ministry, the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), and other security agencies.

He emphasized the substantial investments in road infrastructure and the need for sustained protection of
these national assets to ensure their long-term impact on Nigerians.

He expressed confidence that this visit would further strengthen collaboration between the Ministry and the Nigeria Police in safeguarding critical infrastructure projects.