Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has raised concerns about the insufficient funding allocated to road infrastructure in Nigeria’s 2025 budget.
Umahi, who previously served as a two-term governor of Ebonyi State, expressed his dissatisfaction during the 2025 budget defence session held by the House Committee on Works last Friday.
Umahi revealed that the N800 billion proposed for the Works Ministry is grossly inadequate to address the nation’s pressing road infrastructure challenges. He appealed to the committee, led by Chairman Akin Alabi, for an increase in the allocation.
“We plead with you to help us. N800bn cannot do anything for us. It cannot address our road needs, so we appeal for your assistance,” Umahi stated during the session.
The minister outlined the critical importance of sufficient funding, noting that ongoing road projects across the country remain incomplete due to financial constraints. He argued that an increase in funding is crucial not only for completing these projects but also for initiating new ones to meet the demands of the growing population and economic activities.
Umahi also advocated for borrowing as a practical approach to bridge the infrastructure funding gap. He emphasized that investing in infrastructure would stimulate economic growth and reduce poverty.
“When the nation is in recession, borrowing to invest in infrastructure is essential. That’s how you come out of a recession. Infrastructure acts as a catalyst for economic activities, and it will alleviate the hunger we are talking about. Food sellers, sand suppliers, gravel suppliers, and others will all benefit. Support Mr President, and let’s borrow money to develop infrastructure so that Nigeria can become great again,” he explained.
During the session, Umahi also fielded questions from committee members about the condition of roads nationwide. He reiterated the Federal Government’s dedication to improving road infrastructure and assured lawmakers that all efforts are being made to deliver on ongoing projects.
In response, Akin Alabi, the committee chairman, acknowledged the concerns raised by the minister. He pledged to summon Minister of Finance Wale Edun and the Head of the Budget Office, Tanimu Yakub, to address the rationale behind the low allocation for road infrastructure in the 2025 budget.
