) President Bola Tinubu says his administration will enforce quality standards, transparency and value for money in all ongoing road projects across the country.
Tinubu made the pledge during the flag-off of the Osogbo–Iwo–Ibadan and Gbongan–Osogbo road projects on Thursday in Osogbo.
The President was represented by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola.
The President said the projects underscored his administration’s commitment to improving connectivity, unlocking economic opportunities and restoring confidence in public infrastructure.
“Let me assure you, this administration will enforce quality standards, transparency and value for money.
“Every naira must count. Every milestone must be met, and every community must feel the benefit.
“To our contractors and engineers, deliver with excellence and speed. To our state and local partners, let us work as one team,” he said.
He urged citizens to remain patient and supportive, noting that the projects would strengthen trust and drive national development.
“Together, we will build not just roads, but trust; not just routes, but a future.
“May these projects stand as a testament to what we can achieve when purpose meets action,” he added.
Tinubu said the Osogbo–Iwo–Ibadan Road, spanning approximately 82 kilometres and currently in poor condition, would be constructed by Messrs Peculiar Concerns Ltd. at a cost of N114.854 billion, with a completion period of 24 months.
He also said the Gbongan–Osogbo Road, measuring about 88 kilometres, had been awarded to Messrs Trucrete Solutions Ltd. at a cost of N101.806 billion, also with a 24-month completion timeline.
“Today, we are not just turning soil; we are turning a new page.
“These roads are lifelines and critical components of the Federal Government’s road infrastructure development programme.
“They will enhance connectivity, improve road safety and stimulate socio-economic activities, enabling farmers to move goods faster and children to get to school more safely,” he said.
The President added that the projects, approved by the Federal Executive Council, were designed to ease transportation challenges and boost the economic fortunes of host communities.
“With God on our side, we shall complete these projects for the benefit and economic transformation of our nation.
“These roads will be delivered successfully,” he said.
Earlier, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, defended the Federal Government’s borrowing for infrastructure, saying the funds were being invested in durable projects that would stimulate economic growth.
Umahi urged critics to visit ongoing federal road projects nationwide to assess progress.
“Those questioning our borrowing should travel across the country and see what the Federal Government is doing.
“We are building roads that can last up to 100 years with minimal maintenance,” he said.
The minister highlighted progress on key projects, including sections of the Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway and the Trans-Sahara Trade Route linking Calabar to Abuja through Ebonyi, Benue, Kogi and Nasarawa states.
According to him, Section One of the Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway in Sokoto State is at 40 per cent completion, Section Two in Kebbi at 60 per cent, while Section Three in Ogun has reached 18 per cent, with work also progressing on the Oyo section.
He added that construction had commenced on parts of the Trans-Sahara Trade Route, while engineering designs were ongoing for other segments.
Umahi said the projects would attract private investment, create jobs and boost economic activities, noting that some completed roads would eventually be tolled under public-private partnership arrangements.(NAN)
