FERMA POORLY FUNDED, ADVOCATES FOR INCREASED BUDGETARY ALLOCATION FOR THE AGENCY-NASS COMMITTEES

L-R, Honourable Minister of Work, H. E. David Umahi, with the Managing Director/CEO, FERMA, Engr. (Dr.) Chukwuemeka Agbasi, FNSE, FNIHTE, during FERMA’s 2024 budget defense at the NASS on Tuesday 12th December, 2023

In a recent joint sitting of the Senate and House Committees on FERMA, Chairman Sen. Hussaini Babangida Uba highlighted FERMA’s poor funding and advocated for an increased annual budgetary allocation. He emphasized the agency’s struggle to meet public expectations in maintaining federal roads nationwide.

Sen. Uba acknowledged FERMA’s efforts within its limited means but stressed the need for enhanced Stakeholder Engagement and publicity. He urged FERMA to communicate its achievements and challenges effectively to gain public appreciation.

Cross section of the Joint Senate and House Committees on FERMA during FERMA’s 2024 budget defense at the NASS on Tuesday 12th December, 2023

During the presentation of the 2023/2024 Budget Performance and Defence, Managing Director/CEO Engr. (Dr.) Chukwuemeka Agbasi outlined a N77.4 billion proposal. The budget prioritizes major trunk A roads across the country, aligning with national development goals.

Minister of Works, H. E. Engr. David Umahi, present at the presentation, deemed the appropriation inadequate, suggesting a review for fairness and equity. He emphasized the importance of a contingency fund for emergency road repairs.

Members of the Joint Committee unanimously agreed on the poor state of roads, FERMA’s insufficient funding, and the necessity for an improved and increased budgetary allocation. They also proposed exploring alternative funding sources for FERMA.

Looking ahead, the Committees pledged support and cooperation with FERMA to enhance its effectiveness in road maintenance.

Maryam M. Sanusi (Mrs.)
Director (Information)
13th December, 2023

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