By Chukwudi Nweje
Minister of Works, Sen. David Umahi Tuesday reiterated the need for private sector investment in Nigeria’s road infrastructure as done in advanced economies of the world.
He said, “It is hoped that investors, local and international, and other organised bodies would take advantage of the will power of the president, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope administration and the private sector experience and professional capacities of the Minister of Works to invest in the over 35,000 Km of the national road network being managed by the Federal Government of Nigeria, as this road network carries more than 70 percent of the vehicular traffic, making it a critical infrastructure for the movement of goods and services across the nation. This initiative will trigger economic development, job creation, local content development and wealth creation for Nigerian population. Mr President mean business with his efforts to prosper our country and make it the pride of the African continent. Your support is critical.”
Umahi said this in a statement signed by his Special Adviser (Media) Orji Uchenna Orji, after a meeting with concessionaires and other private sector organisations.
Those present at the meeting held at the Federal Ministry of Works, include Governor of Taraba of State, Dr Agbu Kefas; founder and CEO of Dangote Group of Conglomerates, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, and founder and chairman of Heirs Holdings, Chief Tony Elumelu.
The minister noted that the private sector initiative would fast rack road infrastructure revolution and bring order, accountability, and profitable entrepreneurship to the operations, management, and maintenance of federal highways.