Engineers back Umahi on road infrastructure devt

A coalition of Nigerian engineers has expressed support for the Minister of Works, Engr Dave Umahi, in his handling of the country’s road infrastructure, which has recently come under scrutiny.

This follows criticism from the House of Representatives Committee on the Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA), which recently expressed disappointment in the minister’s performance.

Committee Chairman Hon. Oseni accused Umahi of misplaced priorities, alleging he focused on less critical issues rather than addressing Nigeria’s deteriorating roads. Oseni dismissed Umahi’s claims of resource shortages, stressing that the ministry had received substantial funding, including a ₦300 billion supplementary budget.

In a statement on Wednesday, signed by its Coordinator Engr. Olatunji Badmus, the Nigerian Forum of Engineers in Public Service (FEPS) issued a sharp rebuke to Engr. Aderemi Abasi Oseni for his alleged disparaging remarks about the minister.

The engineers described Oseni’s comments as “mischievous, reckless, unfounded, and completely misplaced,” accusing him of attempting to undermine President Bola Tinubu’s administration and its commitment to due process, efficiency, and a zero-tolerance policy toward corruption in public procurement and contract execution.

The forum expressed dismay at Oseni’s statements, which it characterized as an attempt to discredit the Tinubu administration and its accomplishments in road infrastructure since taking office in May 2023. It noted that Oseni’s claims not only misrepresented the current state of road projects but also sought to mislead the public about the government’s efforts to address inherited liabilities and debts.

“Hon. Oseni’s remarks create a false narrative, suggesting that Minister Umahi has failed to fulfill his duties. This misrepresentation is not only appalling but also raises concerns about Oseni’s affiliations with certain contractors who have previously faced scrutiny for corrupt practices,” the statement read.

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FEPS highlighted that ongoing road projects across the country contradict Oseni’s claims, reflecting the administration’s dedication to prudent resource management. The engineers pointed out that Oseni appears to side with discontented contractors who have not been awarded projects under the current administration, which prioritizes merit and accountability.

“Our forum is appalled by the conduct of Hon. Engr. Aderemi Oseni. Rather than celebrating President Tinubu’s significant achievements in road infrastructure, he seems intent on undermining the administration to benefit failed contractors,” Badmus stated.

The engineers emphasized that the scale of ongoing infrastructure projects demonstrates the government’s commitment to its promises, with a focus on maintaining and advancing initiatives inherited from previous administrations. They praised the administration for swiftly reopening key infrastructure, including the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos, and addressing various trunk roads across the country.

“The progress made in just 18 months is unprecedented in Nigeria’s history. It is shocking that Hon. Oseni would cast doubt on these accomplishments to favor those who seek to bypass established processes,” they asserted.

The forum reiterated that under President Tinubu’s leadership, public contracting has fundamentally changed, with an emphasis on transparency and accountability, rejecting the old “business as usual” approach.

FEPS commended Minister Umahi for his hands-on approach and engineering expertise, aligning with President Tinubu’s vision for rapid national development. They urged all stakeholders, including lawmakers, to support the administration’s efforts to improve Nigeria’s infrastructure and economic landscape.