The Minister of State for Works, Bello Goronyo, has emphasized the importance of communication in addressing the ongoing issues related to road rehabilitation in Nigeria. During a recent meeting with the management of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) and its board, Goronyo urged the agency to provide regular updates not only to the public but also to the National Assembly and other stakeholders. This call for improved communication comes amid growing dissatisfaction over the current state of Nigeria’s roads and the related fatalities experienced due to road accidents, which have prompted some members of the National Assembly to advocate for a state of emergency on all federal roads.
In response to the meeting, the Director of Press and Public Relations, Mohammed Ahmed, released a statement on Goronyo’s behalf, underscoring the necessity for FERMA to better publicize its accomplishments. He stressed that these updates would enable stakeholders to properly appraise the agency’s activities and to foster greater transparency. These efforts are seen as a critical way to bridge existing communication gaps between FERMA and its key partners, thereby enhancing collaboration and ensuring that the public remains informed about ongoing road rehabilitation initiatives.
The recent meeting is a continuation of previous discussions aimed at establishing a strategic work plan for FERMA’s projects across the country. It seeks to provide a clear roadmap for the agency’s operations in light of challenges that have hampered its effectiveness. During the meeting, Goronyo highlighted the significance of maintaining open lines of communication between FERMA and the National Assembly to address the prevailing issues in road maintenance.
Moreover, Goronyo addressed uncertainties regarding the non-implementation of the 2024 budget allocation for FERMA. He encouraged the agency to create a comprehensive template detailing all ongoing projects, which would enable a systematic review of activities across Nigeria’s various geo-political zones. This initiative aims to align FERMA’s projects with national needs and priorities, ensuring that resources are optimized for effective road rehabilitation and maintenance.
The minister expressed appreciation for the efforts of FERMA’s management and board, affirming that such stakeholder engagements would continue. These meetings are designed to support the objectives of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly regarding infrastructure development and transportation as pivotal components for economic growth. By enhancing dialog with relevant stakeholders, the government aims to address road safety and maintenance issues effectively while fostering a conducive environment for developmental projects.
In conclusion, the call for improved communication regarding road rehabilitation reflects a broader awareness of the critical role that infrastructure plays in national development. The ongoing dialogues between the Minister of State for Works, FERMA, and the National Assembly signify a concerted effort to tackle Nigeria’s road safety challenges. As the country looks to enhance its infrastructure, the establishment of transparent communication channels among all parties involved will be crucial in achieving effective and lasting solutions to the ongoing road issues faced by citizens. Through these initiatives, there is hope that Nigeria can improve its road conditions, reduce accidents, and ultimately enhance the quality of life for its populace.
