The Minister of State for Works, Bello Goronyo, has warned that penalties await vehicle owners responsible for damaging roads across the country.
Speaking on Tuesday during an inspection of the 58km road repairs by FERMA at Mamman Suka town on the Sokoto-Illela federal road, Goronyo revealed that the federal government will soon launch “Operation Safeguard Our Roads” to combat road misuse and destruction.
He stressed that the government will no longer tolerate the misuse of road infrastructure, noting that significant taxpayer funds are invested in these projects.
“We will not hesitate to penalize any vehicle owner who causes damage to the road. The owner will be made to pay and penalized accordingly,” the Minister stated.
“We can afford to fold our arms and see roads constructed with tax payers money been destroyed after committing huge sums of money “, he stressed warning road vehicle owners to desist of face the law as appropriate.
He explained that the drive was aimed at ensuring the provision of qualitative road infrastructure for smooth transportation towards enhancing businesses, trades and for the general socio-economic prosperity of the country.
He stated that the initiative was in line with visionary and purposeful commitment of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to repositioning the country.
“We need the unflinching support and cooperation of all to actualise the agenda for the benefit of the Nigerian citizens”, urging states and LGs as well Nigerians to dispassionately report destructive actions by vehicle owners yo the nearest appropriate authority.
The minister launched a solar-powered street lights project executed by FERMA at Sultan Abubakar International Airport and the surrounding roads.
The Minister highlighted that the project would be life-saving and significantly improve security surveillance, particularly in areas that were previously considered danger zones, especially at night.
Dr. Emeka Agbasi, Managing Director of FERMA, explained that the initiative was part of efforts to enhance road conditions for public safety, aligning with FERMA’s mandate.
He also praised the Minister for his dedication to advancing President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, positioning road infrastructure as a key driver for national progress.
