FG Releases 30% Funding for Ibadan–Ife–Ilesha, Ilesha–Akure–Benin Roads
The Federal Government has announced the release of 30 per cent funding for major ongoing road projects across the country, including the Ibadan–Ife–Ilesha dual carriageway and the Ilesha–Akure–Benin corridor.
According to Nairametrics, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, made this known shortly after Thursday’s Federal Executive Council meeting in Abuja.
He said the partial disbursement also covers strategic highways such as the Abuja–Kano expressway, Enugu–Onitsha route, Lagos–Sagamu–Ore axis, and the Nembe–Brass Road.
Providing details, Umahi said the Ibadan–Ife–Ilesha and Ilesha–Akure–Benin projects are among several Southwest corridors benefiting from the disbursement, aimed at fast-tracking ongoing construction and easing transportation challenges in the region.
He added that these developments were part of President Bola Tinubu’s broader agenda to revitalise road infrastructure nationwide.
“Thirty per cent funding has now been released to the contractors handling these key roads. This is to ensure that work continues in earnest across the country, particularly in areas with high economic and social significance,” he stated.
He further disclosed that the Abuja–Kano highway, which has been split into two lots, has seen substantial financial commitment.
“Lot 1, measuring 118 kilometres, is valued at N256bn. N75bn has already been paid and work is over 30 per cent complete. Lot 2, spanning 164 kilometres, has a total cost of N502bn. Mr President has just approved N150bn—another 30 per cent—to be credited to the contractor within days,” Umahi noted.
Similarly, the Enugu–Onitsha expressway, a 72-kilometre stretch estimated at N150bn, has received N45bn, representing 30 per cent of the project cost. The Nembe–Brass Road in Bayelsa State also had initial funds released to accelerate work.
Other funded projects include remedial interventions along the Bauchi–Jigawa road corridor, reconstruction of the Keffi flyover in Nasarawa State—which collapsed recently and claimed three lives—and ongoing Sukuk-funded works in Gombe.
Umahi also revealed that the ministry would publish a comprehensive list of road and bridge projects valued above N10bn next week, offering the public an avenue to track progress and promote transparency.
He reaffirmed the administration’s resolve to connect regions, enhance trade, and stimulate local economies through aggressive investment in road infrastructure.
Sodiq Lawal is a passionate and dedicated journalist with a knack for uncovering captivating stories in the bustling metropolis of Osun State and Nigeria at large. He has a versatile reporting style, covering a wide range of topics, from politics , campus, and social issues to arts and culture, seeking impact in all facets of the society.
