Minister David Umahi directs emergency Lambata-Lapai-Bida Road Rehabilitation with CGC Nigeria Limited after Niger tanker explosion to restore safety and mobility.
The Federal Government has commenced urgent Lambata-Lapai-Bida Road Rehabilitation in Niger State following the recent tanker explosion that claimed lives and caused extensive damage along the strategic highway.
Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, has dispatched an emergency task force to the area, directing the contractor, CGC Nigeria Limited, to begin immediate palliative works aimed at restoring safety and mobility.
Umahi issued this directive after a crucial meeting held in Abuja on Thursday with Niger State Governor Mohammed Umar Bago, members of the National Assembly from the state, and President of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote.
The meeting focused on the Federal Government’s quick intervention and long-term solutions for the road, which serves as a major link between Niger State and the Federal Capital Territory.
In the wake of the tanker explosion at Essa Village, located at chainage 97+000 along the route, the Minister expressed deep sympathy to the victims’ families and the people of Niger State.
He also extended condolences to Governor Bago, assuring that the Federal Government would act swiftly through the Lambata-Lapai-Bida Road Rehabilitation project to prevent future tragedies and ensure the safety of travelers.
According to a statement issued by the Minister’s Special Adviser on Media, Barr. Orji Uchenna Orji, the emergency committee has been instructed to collaborate closely with CGC Nigeria Limited to carry out palliative works that will make the road motorable while awaiting full reconstruction.
The statement revealed that the road project was initially financed under the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) funding framework.
However, following the NNPCL’s withdrawal from nationwide project funding, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu directed that all inherited projects previously under NNPCL’s purview be reviewed and submitted for his approval, emphasizing that no project should be abandoned due to the funding transition.
Engr. Umahi explained that the Federal Ministry of Works has completed its review and will present the findings to the President next week. He added that the administration’s focus remains on continuity, transparency, and timely delivery of critical infrastructure.
Highlighting the importance of the Lambata-Lapai-Bida Road Rehabilitation, Umahi described it as a vital economic corridor that facilitates agricultural and commercial transportation between Niger State, Abuja, and other parts of the North Central region.
He stressed that its rehabilitation would not only ease movement but also support farmers, traders, and logistics operators who rely heavily on the route.
Umahi appealed to all contractors involved in the project—especially those who have submitted certificates for payment—to return to their respective sites and resume work immediately. He assured that payment processes are being prioritized, with disbursement expected to begin in November 2025.
Reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment under the Renewed Hope Administration, the Minister emphasized that road development is central to national growth.
“Our goal is to build durable, resilient, and modern road infrastructure across Nigeria,” he said.
“The Lambata-Lapai-Bida Road Rehabilitation is not just a repair project—it’s an investment in the nation’s future and a symbol of our commitment to the people’s safety and prosperity.”
Governor Mohammed Umar Bago, who attended the meeting, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and the Federal Ministry of Works for their quick response to the tragedy.
He assured that the state government would fully cooperate with federal authorities and contractors to ensure the successful implementation of the rehabilitation effort.
The President of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, also commended the Federal Government’s proactive intervention, noting that the Lambata-Lapai-Bida Road Rehabilitation would significantly improve logistics and transport safety in the region.
He reiterated his company’s readiness to support infrastructural projects that promote economic growth and enhance public welfare.
In his remarks, Umahi clarified that the palliative works will serve as a temporary relief while the Ministry finalizes comprehensive reconstruction plans for the road.
He added that durable materials and modern engineering techniques will be applied to ensure that the rehabilitated sections can withstand heavy traffic over time.
“The Renewed Hope Agenda is about restoring faith in government action,” the Minister noted.
“Through Lambata-Lapai-Bida Road Rehabilitation, we are demonstrating that we listen, we act, and we deliver results that improve the daily lives of Nigerians.”
Umahi also revealed that the Ministry has mapped out a nationwide strategy to monitor and fast-track all major road projects across the country. He assured Nigerians that no project would be abandoned, emphasizing accountability, transparency, and value for money.
The Minister’s initiative comes at a time when road safety and infrastructure development remain top national priorities. With several ongoing projects under review, the Federal Government’s intervention in Niger State serves as a model for swift response and intergovernmental collaboration.
By deploying an emergency team to restore the route, the Works Ministry has shown responsiveness to citizens’ concerns and reinforced its commitment to President Tinubu’s infrastructure renewal vision.
The Lambata-Lapai-Bida Road Rehabilitation therefore stands as a clear demonstration of how proactive governance and public-private partnerships can deliver meaningful impact across Nigeria.
As reconstruction efforts begin, road users and local communities are hopeful that the Federal Government’s intervention will not only repair the damage caused by the tanker explosion but also pave the way for lasting development.
With decisive leadership from Engr. David Umahi and the strong backing of President Tinubu, the Federal Ministry of Works continues to prove that road infrastructure remains the backbone of national growth.
Through the Lambata-Lapai-Bida Road Rehabilitation, the government is sending a powerful message of renewal, unity, and progress—ensuring that no part of the nation is left behind on the path to sustainable development.
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