FERMA Staff Union Passes Confidence Vote in Management

The Staff Union of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) has passed a vote of confidence on the Engr. Emeka Agbasi-led management.

The union reaffirmed its trust in the leadership’s direction, commitment to staff welfare and ongoing institutional reforms.

The resolution was reached during the Agency’s Staff Congress held yesterday, at FERMA Headquarters in Abuja, where members of staff, directors and the management team gathered for a constructive engagement aimed at strengthening collaboration and enhancing staff welfare.

Agbasi, in his address, described the workforce as the “engine room and heartbeat of FERMA,” emphasising the importance of sustained dialogue between Management and staff.

He noted that the interactive forum, earlier proposed to the Union, has now become a reality and should be institutionalised to promote continuous engagement on issues of shared interest.

Agbasi acknowledged the critical role of the Staff Union in fostering dialogue, promoting fairness, and strengthening the bond between Management and staff, while also recognising concerns relating to welfare, working conditions, and career development.

Providing an update on ongoing efforts to improve staff remuneration, the Managing Director disclosed that Management had taken bold steps to address longstanding salary concerns by introducing a specialised Job Peculiar Allowance and proposing a 100 per cent increment in staff salaries.

He explained that despite FERMA’s non-revenue-generating status, the Agency engaged key stakeholders and regulatory bodies to advance the proposal.

According to him, sustained advocacy and engagements with institutions such as the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission and the Budget Office of the Federation have yielded significant progress.

He announced that on March 17, 2026, a major milestone was achieved as the Chairman of the Salaries and Wages Commission forwarded a recommendation for salary increment to the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

While noting that final approval is still under review, Dr Agbasi expressed optimism that the process is nearing completion.

He added that Management has, in the interim, ensured the prompt payment of existing hazard allowances to support staff and maintain morale.

Reaffirming Management’s broader commitment, he stated that staff welfare remains fundamental to achieving FERMA’s mandate, adding that the Agency will continue to pursue policies that promote productivity, innovation, and institutional growth.

“FERMA is, and will continue to be, a progressive agency. The welfare of our staff is not just a priority; it is central to achieving our mandate. Together, we will build a stronger and more responsive institution,” he said.

Dr Agbasi further encouraged staff to sustain their professionalism and dedication, noting that the Agency’s achievements, including the successful delivery of its 2025 Ministerial Mandate KPIs, are a direct reflection of their collective efforts.

He also urged staff to align with the Agency’s Strategic Direction as part of its contribution to the National Development Plan (2026–2030).

In his remarks, the Chairman of the FERMA Staff Union, Comrade Paul Onimisi, commended the Managing Director for his purposeful leadership and sustained efforts in repositioning the Agency.

He also appealed to Management to support staff initiatives towards a successful celebration of the 2026 May Day (Workers’ Day).

Other staff members who spoke during the session expressed appreciation for Management’s ongoing efforts, while also calling for improved welfare packages to cushion the impact of prevailing economic challenges. The requests focused on strengthening staff support systems to boost morale, productivity, and overall institutional effectiveness.