Author: ferma

The Managing Director Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) Engr Dr Emeka Agbasi received Mr. Simbarash Kingstone Gongerah, a consultant under the World Bank and European Union-sponsored programme, and his team on a courtesy visit to the Agency Headquarters recently.

The visit formed part of the SSATP Resilient Road Asset Management (RRAM) Landscape Study, aimed at promoting climate-resilient road infrastructure through improved planning, strengthened rural road networks, and enhanced institutional capacity.

Speaking during the engagement, Engr Agbasi reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to adopting sustainable and forward-looking strategies that will enhance the resilience, efficiency, and longevity of Nigeria’s road assets.

The Agency continues to align with global best practices in infrastructure management, ensuring that the nation’s road network remains durable and responsive to emerging climate challenges.

BPP LETTER OF INVITATION FOR BID OPENING 13TH MARCH 2026

The Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) has proposed a total budget of ₦229.999 billion for the 2026 fiscal year as part of efforts to strengthen road maintenance operations and improve connectivity across the country.
The proposed appropriation comprises ₦191 billion for capital expenditure, ₦5 billion for personnel costs, and ₦33 billion for overhead expenses. The proposal was presented during the 2025 Appropriation Act performance review and 2026 budget defense before the Joint Senate and House Committees on FERMA.
Presenting the budget, the Minister of State for Works and Supervising Minister of FERMA, Hon. Bello Goronyo, Esq., stated that although the Agency possesses the necessary technical expertise to effectively discharge its mandate, inadequate funding remains its primary constraint.
He explained that project allocations in the 2026 proposal cut across all states of the Federation, reflecting FERMA’s commitment to equitable and strategic road maintenance nationwide.
“It is envisaged that, with your support, the implementation of the 2025 five percent fossil fuel surcharge, as provided under Section 159 of the New Task Force Act, will include FERMA in the distribution template. This aligns with global best practices and will enable the Agency to more effectively fulfill its mandate,” the Minister stated.
Hon. Goronyo expressed appreciation to the Committees for their consistent oversight and support, describing the partnership between the Legislature and FERMA as critical to the Agency’s progress. He appealed for sustained legislative backing to unlock FERMA’s full operational capacity and accelerate critical interventions on federal roads across all regions.
“With your approval, we can unlock FERMA’s full technical capacity, accelerate critical road interventions nationwide, and ensure that Nigeria’s roads become true engines for economic growth and national unity,” he added.

In his presentation, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of FERMA, Engr. Chukwuemeka Agbasi, reiterated the funding challenges confronting the Agency and highlighted key performance indicators achieved in 2025.
According to Engr. Agbasi, FERMA accomplished the following within the review period:
200.82km of roads maintained
31,574.29 square metres of potholes patched
1,655.89km of roads made motorable
10,311 metres of drainage constructed
19 washouts reinstated
3 bridges maintained
4,013 streetlight poles installed
He, however, noted that several challenges continue to affect optimal performance, including budgetary releases falling short of required targets, distressed and aged pavements, road abuse, climate change-related emergencies—particularly in flood-prone areas—and security concerns in certain regions.
The Managing Director stressed the importance of harmonizing the national budget cycle with procurement processes to ensure that road projects are executed during the dry season, thereby enhancing timely delivery and cost-effectiveness.

The Chairman of the Senate Committee on FERMA, Sen. Sahabi Yau, the Chairman of the House Committee on FERMA, Hon. Engr. Aderemi Oseni and other members of the Committee commended the Agency for its visible efforts in maintaining federal roads across the country.
While acknowledging the need for increased funding, Hon. Oseni urged FERMA to further strengthen project delivery standards and ensure value for money. Sen. Yau encouraged the Agency to sustain its performance and strive for greater efficiency in response to feedback and appraisals from members of the National Assembly.
The proposed 2026 budget underscores FERMA’s strategic commitment to improving the condition of federal roads, enhancing national connectivity, and supporting economic growth through a safer and more resilient road infrastructure network.

Stakeholders Unite for Sustainable Road Infrastructure and National Growth

The Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) successfully hosted the FERMA Roads Renewed Summit 2026 on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at the Ladi Kwali Hall, Abuja Continental Hotel. The Summit brought together senior government officials, members of the National Assembly, infrastructure experts, development partners, academics, and industry stakeholders to develop sustainable strategies for Nigeria’s road infrastructure as a key driver of socio-economic growth.

Held under the theme “Sustainable Road Infrastructure for Nigeria’s Socio-Economic Growth”.

The Summit served as a strategic platform to review Nigeria’s road maintenance framework, explore innovative financing models, and strengthen institutional collaboration for the long-term preservation of the federal road network.

In his remarks, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of FERMA, Engr. Dr. Emeka Agbasi, reaffirmed that sustainable economic growth and national development depend on reliable and well-maintained road infrastructure. He emphasized FERMA’s commitment to translating the outcomes of the Summit into measurable improvements across Nigeria’s federal road network.

Declaring the Summit open on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, FNIM, CON, reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to infrastructure development under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

He noted that over 90% of passenger and freight movement in Nigeria relies on the road network and highlighted major national projects such as the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway and Sokoto–Badagry Super Highway as evidence of government’s commitment to durable and sustainable infrastructure.

The SGF emphasized the importance of preventive maintenance, data-driven planning, and the creation of a national road asset database to ensure efficient management of federal roads.

In his Keynote Address, the President of the Senate, Distinguished Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, CON, described roads as the backbone of national unity, trade, and economic growth. He stressed that road infrastructure should be measured by long-term durability and serviceability rather than ceremonial commissioning.

He reaffirmed the National Assembly’s continued support for FERMA through legislation and oversight, while highlighting the Road Infrastructure Development and Refurbishment Investment Tax Credit Scheme as a key initiative encouraging private sector participation.

The Honourable Minister of State for Works, Rt. Hon. Bello Muhammad Goronyo, Esq., emphasized that sustainable road infrastructure is vital for lowering food prices, improving healthcare access, boosting competitiveness, and strengthening social cohesion.

He identified key challenges including axle overloading, road misuse, and funding constraints, and called for stronger enforcement, predictable financing, and a national shift toward preventive maintenance culture.

The Summit featured engaging panel discussions focusing on:
• Sustainable road infrastructure beyond durability
• Economic and social impact of poor road conditions
• Transition from reactive to preventive maintenance
• Innovative financing models including PPPs and user-based systems
• Measuring the economic impact of improved road infrastructure

Panelists agreed that institutional coordination, evidence-based planning, adequate funding, and long-term policy consistency are essential to achieving sustainable road infrastructure

A major highlight of the Summit was the presentation of Awards of Recognition to outstanding FERMA staff in appreciation of their dedication, professionalism, and contributions to improving road maintenance service delivery nationwide.
network.

The FERMA Roads Renewed Summit 2026 concluded with a renewed commitment among stakeholders to collaborate in building, maintaining, and preserving road infrastructure that supports economic growth, national unity, and long-term national development in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda. ‎

In its intensified efforts to ensure smoother travel experiences for Nigerians, The Federal Roads Maintenance Agency ( FERMA) has launched Operation Connect to Your Destination 3.0 along the 36km Ekparakwa–Azumini–Iwukem Road in Akwa Ibom State.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, the Managing Director/CEO of FERMA, Engr. Chukwuemeka Agbasi PhD, said the initiative was crafted to alleviate travel challenges typically experienced at the end of the month and during the festive season.

He disclosed that as part of the nationwide intervention, 10,683 m² of potholes will be patched, 7,392 m² of failed sections repaired, culminating in the restoration of 85.9 kilometres of motorable roadway nationwide. The programme is also expected to generate 1,722 jobs, underscoring its socioeconomic impact.

This renewed push, according to the FERMA helmsman, aligns with the federal mandate to maintain all federal roads and keep them serviceable, an urgent necessity as Nigeria’s 36,000-kilometre federal road network remains the country’s most heavily used transport system.

He further noted that the intervention is fully in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes infrastructure revival, economic stimulation, and improved mobility for citizens. By making federal highways safer and more motorable, FERMA is directly contributing to the administration’s vision of a more connected, efficient, and economically vibrant Nigeria.

“Operation Connect to Your Destination is designed to guarantee free and safe movement of commuters, especially during the Yuletide when travel volume increases. It is important to ensure that travellers enjoy a smooth experience during this period,” Agbasi said.

He affirmed the agency’s dedication to addressing trouble spots, insisting that FERMA is consistently fulfilling its mandate.

“Our responsibility is to ensure that failures, potholes, and distressed sections on the network are remedied promptly. This programme helps us deliver that mandate in a more targeted and effective manner,” he added.

Agbasi noted that OCYD 3.0 will run across 39 major corridors nationwide, with maintenance activities in progress in all 36 states. The ongoing works include pothole patching, repairs of failed sections, and asphaltic overlays aimed at strengthening overall road quality.

Also speaking, Engr. Sani Abdulkadir, Head of FERMA’s Direct Labour Unit, commended the Managing Director’s leadership, confirming that the teams are fully mobilized, promising to deliver on the targets.

“The MD has given clear direction for this intervention. Manpower, machines, and materials are already on ground. We are set to deliver quality work on this corridor,” Abdulkadir said.

He assured that the Direct Labour teams are committed to timely and durable execution, especially ahead of the increased festive traffic.

The launch of OCYD 3.0 in Akwa Ibom State stands as yet another demonstration of FERMA’s expanding footprint in safeguarding Nigeria’s highways. By tackling critical road failures, enhancing connectivity, improving journey time experience and improving safety standards, the agency continues to play a defining role in keeping the nation’s federal roads motorable.

The Minister of State for Works and Supervising Minister of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), Bar. Bello Muhammad Goronyo, has officially inaugurated Dr. Musa Babayo as the Chairman of the FERMA Governing Board in a ceremony held today, Wednesday 19th November 2025, at the Conference Hall of the Federal Ministry of Works, Abuja.
In his remarks, Minister Goronyo described Dr. Babayo as a “proven professional and dedicated public servant,” noting that his leadership at the former Education Trust Fund (ETF) and later the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) significantly strengthened Nigeria’s educational infrastructure. He also praised Dr. Babayo’s humanitarian contributions and unwavering commitment to national development.
“His track record of transparency, excellence, and national service assures us that he has the capacity to lead FERMA into a new era of efficiency and performance,” Goronyo stated.

Goronyo charged the new Chairman to provide effective oversight, strategic guidance, and strong policy direction to FERMA’s Management Team. He further highlighted the expectations of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, calling for:
Accelerated and proactive maintenance of federal roads in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Transparent and judicious use of resources, with zero tolerance for waste.
Robust collaboration with the Ministry of Works, National Assembly, state governments, and other stakeholders to enhance nationwide infrastructure development
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works, Engr. Olufunsho Adebiyi, underscored the critical importance of the road sector to Nigeria’s economic development and national security. He emphasized the need for strong collaboration between the Ministry of Works and FERMA to tackle the nation’s road maintenance challenges for the benefit of all Nigerians.

In his response, Dr. Musa Babayo expressed gratitude for the confidence reposed in him and pledged his full commitment to guiding FERMA toward higher efficiency and improved delivery.
“We shall deploy every available resource, explore innovations, and invest in technology through sustainable funding,” he affirmed. “With these combined efforts, engineers will engineer, contractors will deliver, and Nigerian citizens will appreciate the performance of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is committed to transforming our national economy.”
He further pledged to uphold the highest standards of accountability and integrity in managing FERMA’s financial resources. Dr. Babayo also emphasized the importance of strengthening partnerships with key stakeholders, including the National Assembly, in order to enhance funding and operational effectiveness.
The Managing Director/CEO of FERMA in his vote of thanks, welcomed the new Chairman, noting that his vast experience across the public and private sectors will serve as a strong asset to the agency’s mandate.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by FERMA board members, Directors from the Federal Ministry of Works, Directors from FERMA, and other distinguished guests.

As part of efforts to enhance Nigeria’s road infrastructure and maintenance capacity, the Minister of State for Works, Barr. Bello Goronyo, led a technical delegation to China, accompanied by the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), Dr. Chukwuemeka Agbasi and senior officials of the Ministry.
The visit, coordinated by the China–Africa Economic and Trade Promotion Council (CAETP) through the Global China Project Research Centre (GCPRC), was aimed at deepening cooperation in technology transfer, equipment support and capacity-building to advance the delivery of modern and sustainable road infrastructure in Nigeria.

Day 1: Nigeria Engages CHEC on Technology Transfer and Modern Road Maintenance Solutions

On arrival in China, the delegation was received by Mr. Jimmy Ebi Patrick, Charge D’Affaires at the Nigerian Embassy and his team, before meeting with the China–Africa Economic and Trade Promotion Council (CAETP).
The first engagement was with China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd. (CHEC), a subsidiary of China Communications Construction Company (CCCC), where discussions focused on technology transfer, training and modern maintenance solutions aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
CHEC expressed readiness to collaborate through technical exchange programmes, training initiatives and joint project delivery aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s federal road network.
The delegation also included Engr. Gulloma Usman Muhammad, Acting Director, East Operations (FERMA); Engr. Dr. Chukwuemeka Maduagwu, Special Assistant to the FERMA MD; and Engr. Sanusi Ahmed Abdulqadir, Special Assistant (Technical) to the Minister of State for Works, among others.
“We are determined to ensure that every partnership translates into measurable improvements on Nigerian roads,” said Barr. Goronyo.
“FERMA is committed to adopting innovative solutions that will redefine road maintenance in line with the Renewed Hope vision,” added Dr. Agbasi.

Day 2: Ministry and FERMA Strengthen Collaboration with XCMG on Equipment Support and Capacity Building.

Continuing the engagements, the delegation visited Xuzhou Construction Machinery Group (XCMG), a global leader in construction and road maintenance equipment.
The team toured XCMG’s state-of-the-art facilities covering excavation, mining and road construction technologies and explored equipment solutions tailored to Africa’s diverse terrains.
Discussions centered on technology innovation, local capacity building and equipment support, with XCMG confirming plans to dispatch a technical team to Nigeria to work with FERMA on pilot projects and collaborative training programmes.
“This partnership underscores the importance of modern machinery and knowledge transfer in building safer and more durable roads,” noted Dr. Agbasi.

Day 3: CGGC Pledges Support for Performance-Based Maintenance and Capacity Development

The final round of high-level meetings featured an engagement with the China Gezhouba Group Company (CGGC), led by its President, Mr. Zhang Jun. Discussions focused on performance-based maintenance models, equipment leasing and capacity development for Nigerian engineers.
Dr. Agbasi presented FERMA’s proposed State-Owned Enterprise (SOE) model designed to drive efficient road rehabilitation and maintenance operations. CGGC welcomed the proposal and committed to developing a joint technical and commercial framework, including follow-up visits to Nigeria to support training, equipment provision and scholarship schemes for young Nigerian engineers.
“Our collaboration with CGGC reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure that supports economic growth and national connectivity,” said Barr. Goronyo.

Summary: Turning Engagements into Action for Nigeria’s Road Network
At the conclusion of the visit, the delegation finalized strategic engagements with leading construction and engineering firms in Shandong and Hunan, aimed at translating dialogue into actionable results.

Key commitments secured include technology transfer programmes, capacity-building for engineers, equipment support, pilot projects and training scholarships for young Nigerians.
Barr. Goronyo described the mission as a major step forward in delivering modern, sustainable and high-quality road networks, while Dr. Agbasi assured that FERMA would ensure the outcomes are swiftly implemented.
“We are returning with concrete commitments that will deliver safer, more efficient roads across Nigeria,” affirmed Barr. Goronyo.
“FERMA will translate these partnerships into visible improvements nationwide,” added Dr. Agbasi.

The visit reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to leveraging international partnerships for infrastructure renewal, emphasizing innovation, technology and human capacity development as key drivers of progress.
Through the Ministry of Works and FERMA, Nigeria continues to advance the Renewed Hope Agenda, ensuring sustainable road infrastructure that supports economic growth and the well-being of citizens.

The Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) has flagged-off Operation Safeguard the Road (OSGR) to give Nigerians better experience while using the Federal Roads network. The programme is designed to ensure that there is safety and economic empowerment of youths along road corridors. 

The programme was launched today 25th September, 2025 along the Zuba-Giri-Abaji-Lokoja-Kogi S/B Road, Kwali, Abuja. This strategy involves enhancement of visibility through vegetation control, drainage management to control flood and minor repairs which include patching of potholes up to about 200 metres to reduce accident. The programme will empower youths by offering temporary employment and giving them stipends while it lasts. 

In his speech the Managing Director/CEO of FERMA, Engr. Emeka Agbasi, FNSE, disclosed that the programme is in partnership with the host community and it is connected to President Bola Timubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to reduce poverty and carnage on our roads. It seeks to improve safety, reduce travel time and cost. It aims at engaging unemployed youths ages 18 to 45 along the abutting communities. 

This initiative will prevent premature deterioration of the roads network. This programme will also contribute to the Agency’s Key Performance Indicator (KPI) which we report on a quarterly basis. The participants will be given training on road maintenance operations, to enhance their skills. The engagement will also stimulate the sense of ownership of the road by the employed community youths which will eventually tame vandalism of road furniture. 

This is not the first time the Agency is embarking on this type of programme. Stakeholders Assisted Rights of Way Maintenance Implementation Programme (SHAROW-MIP) and Stakeholders Assisted Rights of Way Economic Sustainability Program (SHAROW-ESP) were similar programmes carried out in the past. 

The OSGR programme stands as the latest and most impactful of these initiatives. It functions both as a social safety net and a vital tool for transforming lives and bolstering economic resilience.

The Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) has signed a two-year strategic agreement with the Global Cooperation Promotion Research Centre (GCPRC) to advance sustainable road infrastructure in Nigeria. Formalized at FERMA’s Abuja headquarters on August 20, this partnership aims to leverage international best practices, especially China’s expertise, in federal road repairs, maintenance, transportation security, and road asset management. GCPRC, a think tank established in February 2025 under Nigeria’s ministry of budget and economic planning, focuses on strengthening global cooperation and fostering Nigeria-China relations.

This collaboration emphasizes technology transfer, innovation, and capacity building to enhance Nigeria’s ability to manage its road networks sustainably. FERMA’s Managing Director, Emeka Agbasi, highlighted the significance of adopting global standards to improve road safety and quality. GCPRC’s Director, Li Zhensheng, noted the partnership’s broader goal of economic growth and bilateral cooperation beyond road infrastructure.

The two-year partnership, renewable by mutual consent, sets a foundation for long-term collaboration to transform Nigeria’s federal road network and infrastructure management while deepening Nigeria-China ties.

Executive Summary

The Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) formally received and commissioned a suite of road construction and maintenance equipment funded by the Government of Japan under its Grant Aid FY2020-2, as part of the Economic and Social Development Programme. This initiative marks a strategic milestone in FERMA’s ongoing efforts to enhance operational capacity and improve the quality and sustainability of Nigeria’s federal road infrastructure.

Equipment Overview

The equipment received under the grant includes:

1. Road Stabilizer – SAKAI
2. Asphalt Lorry – HANTA
3. Vibratory Single Drum Roller – SAKAI
4. Pneumatic Tired Roller – SAKAI
5. Vibratory Tandem Roller – SAKAI
6. Walk Behind Roller – SAKAI (24 units)
7. Spare Parts for 2,000 Hours of Operation

The flagship piece of equipment, the 3-in-1 road stabilizer, facilitates in-place base course construction and sub-grade rehabilitation. This advanced technology is expected to greatly improve the recovery of deteriorated road sections by delivering cost-effective and time-efficient solutions while supporting environmentally sustainable practices through recycling existing road materials.

Strategic Impact

The deployment of this equipment represents a significant investment in FERMA’s capacity to maintain federal roads in a safe and serviceable condition. This aligns with the infrastructure development priorities highlighted in the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which emphasizes transportation as a key driver of economic growth.

FERMA personnel have undergone specialized training in mix design and equipment operation to guarantee optimal use. The equipment will be deployed across the country to restore failed road sections, enhance connectivity, and improve travel experiences throughout Nigeria’s road network.

Acknowledgements

FERMA extends its sincere appreciation to:

• The Government of Japan for approving the grant aid application.
• Crown Agents Japan for a flawless procurement process.
• Marubeni Corporation for its sustained partnership.
• The immediate past FERMA Managing Director, the Honourable Ministers of Works and Budget & National Planning, and other stakeholders for their crucial support.
• President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to transforming Nigeria’s road sector.

Conclusion

The handover and commissioning of this equipment exemplify FERMA’s dedication to innovation, collaboration, and excellence in road maintenance. It reinforces the Agency’s mission to provide safe, reliable, and sustainable road infrastructure for all Nigerians.