Minister: FG committed to delivering critical infrastructure to Nigerians

Bello Goronyo, minister of state for works, says the federal government is committed to investing in and delivering the infrastructure Nigerians need.

The minister spoke on Tuesday during a courtesy visit to Babajide Sanwo-Olu, governor of Lagos, at the government house.

Goronyo said the visit was to strengthen collaboration between the federal and state governments on infrastructure development.

During the meeting, Goronyo conveyed a message from President Bola Tinubu, urging Lagos to continue supporting federal infrastructure projects in the state.

“The message from Mr President is clear, we must take the issue of fixing our national infrastructure very seriously,” Goronyo said.

“Your excellency, this is a government that has prioritised the issue of infrastructure. The government has taken a bold step and since my recent deployment to the ministry of works where I was asked to oversee FERMA, I had a meeting with critical stakeholders and penciled down south-west as my first point of call.

“This is an infrastructure government, and we are committed to improving the nation’s road networks and supporting socio-economic development.

“What we need from you is your continued support, and cooperation. I believe whatever we solicit from you, you will give it to us.”

The minister noted that the agency has several ongoing road projects in the state. He said the federal government is currently undertaking 11 road projects in Lagos, with plans for expansion.

Goronyo highlighted recent initiatives such as the commissioning of 212 solar streetlights in Isale Eko, aimed at enhancing security and boosting local economic activities.

He also noted the rehabilitation of a 300-meter road near Apapa, which he said has improved traffic flow and stimulated economic activities.

“These projects are part of our commitment to improving connectivity and ensuring smooth transportation across the country,” Goronyo said.

The minister also urged Nigerians to support the president’s renewed hope agenda, saying this will foster national prosperity.

Responding, Sanwo-Olu emphasised the importance of cooperation between all levels of government and assured Goronyo of the state’s commitment to collaboration.

“We will always support our government at the central and we will also continue to work well with your ministry and the agency that you are overseeing,” Sanwo-Olu said.

“FERMA is more or less a household name here in Lagos. We know them very well. I want to say that we understand that for any government to be able to signpost and show what it has done for its people, infrastructure is a major driver of that.

“Let them share information, let them share ideas of what the plans are, where they want to go so that we don’t double efforts in some areas.

“We have joint responsibility on all of these things.”