The Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) has successfully finalized 286 road projects across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones since August 2023, as reported on Sunday, August 4.
This initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aiming to enhance the quality of the nation’s road network while generating approximately 22,800 direct and indirect job opportunities.
In addition, FERMA has initiated Operation Free Our Roads, a campaign dedicated to road rehabilitation throughout the country, especially during the rainy season, to alleviate difficulties faced by motorists as the festive Yuletide season approaches.
In a statement released by Maryam Sanusi, the Director of Information and Public Relations, the agency’s Managing Director/CEO, Chukwuemeka Agbasi, elaborated on this initiative during a briefing in Abuja on July 31, 2024. He emphasized that Operation Free Our Roads is a collaborative effort with the Federal Ministry of Works, aimed at prioritizing citizens’ needs by improving road conditions.
Reflecting on the agency’s achievements over the past year, Agbasi noted, “FERMA has accomplished 286 projects, including capital, recurrent, and direct labor initiatives across the six geopolitical zones from August 2023 to the present. This has resulted in the creation of around 22,800 jobs, significantly enhancing the lives of youth in the adjacent road corridors and the communities served by our projects.”
He continued, “These projects fall within FERMA’s core mission to boost the economic welfare of Nigerians, elevate local and international interests, and ensure safer driving conditions for all citizens.”
“Our primary objective is to maintain and enhance the quality of federal roads throughout Nigeria, contributing to national progress and economic development.”
In related developments, Agbasi reaffirmed, “FERMA is committed to delivering quality, durable roads while recovering 16 kilometers of roadway through our connect-to-your-destination operations.”
The scope of work includes pothole filling for smoother driving, pavement reinforcement to prolong road lifespan and increase load capacity, repairs of degenerated road sections, limited rehabilitation to enhance road conditions, and construction of bridges and culverts to improve connectivity and mitigate flooding risks.
Agbasi assured the public of FERMA’s dedication to transparency and accountability, stating that the agency has adopted various strategic measures for effective monitoring and maintenance of federal roads nationwide. These efforts reflect the agency’s commitment to supporting the President’s vision of a more interconnected and prosperous Nigeria.
He concluded by urging all Nigerians to remain patient and supportive of the government’s initiatives in advancing road infrastructure, emphasizing that these projects are pivotal in fostering economic growth and development in the nation.
