FG Reaffirms Strong Commitment To Kogi Roads As Umahi, Deedat Push For Accelerated Infrastructure Delivery, Security Integration Across Key Corridors

A high-level engagement between the Honourable Minister of Works, Sen. Engr. David Umahi, CON, FNSE, FNATE, and the Honourable Commissioner for Works, Kogi State, Hon. Salam Ozige Deedat, have reaffirmed the commitment of both the Federal Government and the Kogi State Government to the sustained development of critical road infrastructure across the state.

At the meeting, the Honourable Commissioner expressed appreciation for the ongoing federal interventions on major road corridors, particularly the Abuja–Lokoja–Okene axis and other adjoining routes, noting that successive administrations have contributed to these projects, but observing that recent efforts under the current Renewed Hope Administration have demonstrated greater visibility and impact.

Eereporter.com
He further commended the Minister for his prompt visit to Kogi State upon assumption of office, describing it as a clear demonstration of his connection and commitment to the state despite it not being his place of origin.

In addition, he acknowledged the consistent presence of federal teams and contractors on sites, while also pointing out that although progress on key corridors such as the Abuja–Lokoja and Lokoja–Okene are evident, delays in some sections and flyover construction have created traffic challenges that require urgent attention.

Moreover, he highlighted other strategic routes, including Okene–Ajaokuta, Takete–Mopa–Isanlu–Egbe towards Kwara State, as well as the Lokoja–Okene corridor, stressing that they all demand accelerated intervention, especially given Kogi State’s strategic proximity to the Federal Capital Territory.

In response, the Honourable Minister explained that the major challenge confronting infrastructure delivery nationwide remains funding, even as the Federal Government continues to intensify efforts to address infrastructure deficits across all regions. He emphasised that the current administration is undertaking unprecedented road construction and rehabilitation works, noting that if past administrations had achieved similar levels of development, the present infrastructure pressure across the country would have been significantly reduced. He also reiterated that all parts of the country are demanding attention, adding that ongoing works are being systematically reviewed and restructured to ensure proper delivery and accountability.

Specifically addressing the Abuja–Lokoja corridor, the Minister stated that the road, which was previously in a deplorable condition, is now undergoing extensive reconstruction, with several contractors handling different sections.

He explained that a 48-kilometre stretch formerly handled by Bulletine Construction is being restructured under concrete pavement due to funding and durability considerations, while an 86-kilometre section previously executed by Gitto has also been re-awarded and reorganised for renewed construction works.

Similarly, he disclosed that additional sections, including a 56-kilometre stretch, are being rescoped from asphalt to concrete pavement after contractors voluntarily agreed to adopt a more durable construction method within the available cost framework. Furthermore, he noted that about 50 kilometres remain, which have now been divided between contractors such as JRB and Trucrete to accelerate completion.

In the same vein, he explained that other contractors, including CGC, CCECC, BUA, and CBC, are actively working on various segments of the corridor, with several portions already completed or ongoing under concrete pavement technology.

He stressed that this transition to concrete construction is deliberate, as it ensures long-term durability and reduces maintenance costs, unlike previous asphalt methods that deteriorate quickly due to water penetration and inadequate shoulder protection.

While addressing concerns raised about national security, the Minister acknowledged the strong relationship between infrastructure and security, noting that poor road networks often exacerbate insecurity. Consequently, he revealed that the Ministry is considering integrating solar-powered lighting and CCTV surveillance systems along critical highways such as Abuja–Lokoja Expressway to enhance monitoring, safety, and response capabilities. He further assured that similar interventions will be extended to other strategic corridors to improve security and protect road users.

FG Reaffirms Strong Commitment To Kogi Roads As Umahi

Additionally, he provided updates on several ongoing and planned national projects, including the Trans-Saharan Highway, which forms part of the President’s Legacy Road Infrastructure initiative and passes through Kogi, Benue, and Nasarawa States before terminating at Apo in the FCT. He also referenced the Makurdi–9th Mile corridor, the Kabba–Ado Ekiti road project, and other interventions under the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Programme, noting that several of these projects are captured within the 2024–2026 budget cycle, with funding already allocated but awaiting full mobilisation or contractor deployment in some cases.

Moreover, he urged stronger collaboration between the federal and state governments, encouraging sub-national governments to complement federal efforts by undertaking basic interventions such as stone-base construction and maintenance works, where necessary.

He also advocated for the adoption of more durable road construction methods, particularly concrete pavement and reinforced mesh technology, which have proven effective in states where they have been implemented.

Mohammed A. Ahmed
Director, Information and Public Relations.
30 April, 2026.

Oba Of Lagos Lends Support To EFCC In Fight Against Corruption

The Oba of Lagos, His Royal Majesty, Oba Rilwan Babatunde Osuolale Aremu Akiolu I, has assured the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, of the full support and commitment of the state’s traditional institution in the fight against corruption and other economic and financial crimes.

He gave the assurance on Thursday, April 30, 2026, in Lagos while receiving the Acting Zonal Director of the EFCC , Lagos Zonal Directorate 2, ACE1 Bawa Usman Kaltungo, who led a delegation of top officers of the Commission on a courtesy visit to his palace.

Oba Akiolu described the visit as a mark of respect not only to the traditional institution of Lagos, but also to the enduring values of integrity, justice, and collaboration.

Eereporter.com
“The Palace of Lagos regards the mission of the EFCC not merely as an administrative responsibility, but as a moral crusade. In a global economic hub such as Lagos, the integrity of the financial system is the very foundation of prosperity”, he said.

The monarch further described corruption as a shadow that must be dispelled by the light of transparency and the firm hand of justice.

While commending the EFCC’s relentless efforts to root out corruption and financial crimes, he noted that the anti-graft war requires strong institutions and collective resolve.

“Your request for fatherly support is hereby granted with the full weight of the Throne. The wisdom of this Palace is rooted in the eternal truth that righteousness exalts a nation. Together with the Council of Chiefs, we pledge our cooperation in fostering a culture of accountability that will resonate across Lagos and beyond”.

Earlier, Kaltungo thanked the monarch for the warm reception and conveyed the greetings of the EFCC Executive Chairman, Ola Olukoyede.

Recalling his first encounter with Oba Akiolu at the outset of his career in 2004, he said: “I am here to formally introduce myself as the Acting Zonal Director of EFCC Lagos Zonal Directorate 2, Okotie Eboh, Ikoyi, Lagos.

“Today, I feel like I am coming home to see my father, now that I am back at the Lagos Directorate.”

Oba Of Lagos

He added that the visit was also aimed at strengthening the relationship between the traditional institution and the Commission’s efforts to promote integrity, transparency, and accountability.

“Today, my team and I consider it both necessary and respectful to seek an audience with you, acknowledging your fatherly role in the state and fulfilling our mandate to engage critical stakeholders in the fight against economic and financial crimes,” he said.

Kaltungo further noted that traditional leaders play a pivotal role in shaping societal values and promoting honesty and fairness, adding that “We pray for your continued wisdom and guidance, and we are confident that, together, we can strengthen the foundation of integrity for the benefit of all.”

NNPC Commissions, Hands Over Rehabilitated Wards To National Orthopaedic Hospital, Igbobi

In keeping with its commitment to impact positively on the lives of Nigerians, NNPC Limited has commissioned and handed over three units of 100-bed capacity wards it rehabilitated as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility to the management of the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Igbobi, Lagos.

The intervention carried out by the NNPC Foundation Ltd./Gte., the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of NNPC Limited, involved the rehabilitation and upgrade of Wards G, H, and J, complete with the installation of new beds and the introduction of a central medical gas system designed to enhance the standard of care provided by the hospital.

Eereporter.com
The rehabilitation also included the replacement of roofing and ceiling of the Wards, upgrade of electrical and mechanical systems, and installation of new vinyl floors in all three wards.

Prior to the intervention, the wards were in a state that limited their use, which in turn constrained the hospital’s in-patient care capacity.

Speaking at the commissioning and handover ceremony, the Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, explained that the concept of profitability in NNPC Limited is not restricted to increase in production and revenue alone, as it embraces the level of social impact the company makes.

The GCEO, who was represented by the Chief Financial Officer, Adedapo Segun, said the Company is proud of the rehabilitation and upgrade work done in the hospital’s wards, because of its immense social impact.

On her part, Managing Director of NNPC Foundation, Emmanuella Arukwe, said through the intervention, NNPC Foundation has helped to strengthen a facility that has served Nigerians for many decades.

“Beyond the immediate benefits, this effort reflects the role NNPC Foundation plays as the social impact arm of NNPC Limited. Our focus remains on practical interventions that improve lives and align with national priorities in healthcare”, she stated.

Providing further view into the project, the Medical Director of the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Igbobi, Dr. Wakeel Lawal, said the Management was constrained by the dire situation of the facilities to write to NNPC Foundation for intervention.

He expressed gratitude to the Management of NNPC Limited for granting the request and delivering an outstanding transformation in bringing the wards to international standards, stressing that what NNPC Limited has done goes beyond rehabilitation. It represents a renewal of hope. The commissioning and handover was witnessed by NNPC Ltd.’s Executive Vice President – Business Services, Mrs Sophia Mbakwe.

NNPC

Highlight of the event was the commissioning and unveiling of a commemoration plaque by the representative of the GCEO in company of the Chief Medical Director of the hospital and H.R.H. Alhaji Rodiyallahu Alabi Yunusa, Baale of Bajulaiye Community in Somolu, who represented the Oba of Somolu, HRM Oba Kazeem Bashua as the Royal Father of the day.