The House of Representatives Committee on Works has expressed its discontent with the Minister of Works, Sen. Engr. David Umahi, accusing him of failing to address the pressing issue of deteriorating road infrastructure across Nigeria. During a recent hearing, committee members criticized the Minister for focusing on less critical matters while neglecting the urgent need for road repairs and maintenance that directly impact the daily lives of Nigerians.
The committee's concerns were raised in light of ongoing complaints from citizens regarding the poor state of major highways and rural roads, which have become hazardous due to potholes and inadequate maintenance. Members highlighted that many roads have remained in disrepair for extended periods, exacerbating traffic congestion and contributing to accidents.
Committee Chairman, Hon. Abubakar K. Murtala, stated, "It is unacceptable that while our roads continue to deteriorate, the Minister seems more concerned with projects that do not address the immediate needs of our citizens. We need a clear plan and commitment to fixing our roads instead of diverting attention to less priority issues."
The committee underscored the importance of road infrastructure as a catalyst for economic growth and development, urging the Minister to prioritize road rehabilitation projects that would benefit millions of Nigerians. They emphasized that effective transportation networks are vital for trade, mobility, and overall national progress.
In response to the criticisms, Minister Umahi acknowledged the challenges facing road maintenance but reiterated his commitment to improving Nigeria's road infrastructure. He mentioned ongoing projects under the Tax Credit Scheme aimed at enhancing road conditions but faced skepticism from committee members regarding their timely execution.
The committee has called for a comprehensive report from the Ministry of Works detailing current projects, timelines for completion, and strategies to address the backlog of neglected roads. They emphasized that accountability and transparency are essential in ensuring that funds allocated for road repairs are utilized effectively.