By Becky Momodu
The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved ₦631.3 billion for nine road infrastructure projects across Nigeria as part of the Federal Government’s efforts to improve transportation networks and stimulate economic growth.
The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, disclosed this on Wednesday while briefing State House correspondents after the FEC meeting presided over by President Bola Tinubu.
According to a statement by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Works, Mohammed A. Ahmed, the approvals cover strategic road projects in several states, including remedial works and rehabilitation interventions.
Among the projects approved are the 81.1-kilometre Ado–Ilawe–Ilumaba–Ikole Road in Ekiti State, the 95-kilometre Etuke–Okene–Ankpa–Otopa Road in Kogi State and the Bichi Ring Road in Kano State.
The council also approved road projects in Adamawa and Taraba states, remedial works on the East-West Road and the rehabilitation of the Sokoto–Illela Road.
The ministry said the projects are expected to improve connectivity, facilitate trade, reduce transportation costs and strengthen economic activities in the affected communities.
It added that the investments would support agricultural development, industrial expansion, tourism and access to essential services, while creating employment opportunities across the country.
In another development, Umahi disclosed that 118 kilometres of the Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano Expressway had been completed, while construction on the remaining sections was nearing completion.
He said the completed sections, featuring both asphaltic and concrete pavements, were equipped with solar-powered streetlights to improve visibility and safety at night.
The ministry described the progress on the expressway as a significant milestone in the Federal Government’s efforts to upgrade a major transportation corridor serving passenger movement, commercial activities and regional economic integration.
It noted that investments in road infrastructure remained central to President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in reducing logistics costs, strengthening supply chains and improving the movement of agricultural produce and industrial goods.
The ministry further emphasised the need for effective project implementation, quality assurance, transparency and value for money to ensure that the approved investments deliver tangible benefits to Nigerians.
It reaffirmed its commitment to developing and maintaining a robust national road network to promote economic growth, national integration and shared prosperity.
