FERMA Delivering On Mandate Despite Funding Challenges – Minister

Minister of state for works Barrister Bello Goronyo has assured Nigerians that despite financial constraints, the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) is committed to delivering on its mandate.

Goronyo made this statement while addressing journalists during an inspection tour of the rehabilitated sections of the Lafia-Shendam-Jos Federal Road in Nasarawa State.

He urged road users to protect the roads and refrain from erecting structures that could damage them. “The federal government is spending billions to rehabilitate these roads. It is important that Nigerians take ownership and ensure they are not damaged,” he emphasised.

The minister acknowledged that budgetary allocations alone were insufficient to fund road maintenance nationwide. “The Tinubu-led administration inherited over 3,600km of bad roads, and under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the president is doing a lot to make Nigerian roads motorable. FERMA is also exploring alternative funding sources such as tolling to sustain road maintenance,” he added.

Goronyo called on Nigerians to support the Tinubu administration’s efforts to improve road infrastructure. “This rehabilitated road is of high quality. It will ease traffic congestion, create jobs, and boost economic activities in this region,” he noted.

Meanwhile, the managing director/CEO of FERMA expressed satisfaction with the quality of work done and assured that the agency would continue to fulfil its mandate. “FERMA remains committed to efficiently and effectively maintaining federal roads to ensure they are safe and in good condition,” he stated.

The minister and his team held an interactive session with FERMA staff in Nasarawa State and the North Central region. He reassured them of improved welfare and urged them to contribute actively to the success of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda in the road infrastructure sector.