National Assembly Urges Increased Funding for FERMA to Enhance Road Maintenance

The National Assembly has emphasized the need for improved budgetary allocation to the Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA) to address the current inadequacies in maintaining federal roads, according to a statement by FERMA’s Director of Communications and Public Relations, Mrs Maryam Sanusi.

During a joint sitting of the Senate and House Committees on FERMA, Chairman of the Senate Committee on FERMA, Hussaini Uba, expressed concern over FERMA’s inability to meet public expectations due to insufficient annual budgetary allocations. Uba highlighted the alarming state of federal roads across the country, urging urgent attention to alleviate the suffering of road users.

While acknowledging FERMA’s efforts within its limited means, Uba stressed the importance of increased funding for the agency. He encouraged FERMA to engage stakeholders and enhance public awareness to ensure that its achievements, challenges, and aspirations are widely recognized.

FERMA’s Managing Director, Chukwuemeka Agbasi, explained that the 2024 capital budget proposal prioritizes major trunk A roads across the six Geopolitical Zones, aligning with national development goals and economic recovery initiatives. Agbasi disclosed that the budget includes rollover projects to ensure 100% execution.

In his presentation, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, voiced concerns over the inadequacy of the appropriation, emphasizing the need for a budget review and the establishment of a contingency fund for emergency road repairs. Umahi reiterated plans to review road designs for more robust construction and maintenance, promoting longer-lasting roads in the country.