The Federal Government has launched a major nationwide road repair initiative, aimed at easing travel ahead of the busy festive season.
Through the Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA), the government has flagged off “Operation Connect to Your Destination” Phase 2 in Kano State, promising widespread repairs on federal highways.
The road repair project, which began in Kano, is set to target high-traffic routes and improve road safety and connectivity across Nigeria.
FERMA’s Managing Director, Engr. Chukwuemeka Agbasi, shared the ambitious goals of the program, which is expected to patch 18,850 square meters of road surface, rehabilitate over 12,000 failed road sections, complete 2,700 square meters of road overlay, and make a total of 653 kilometers of road motorable.
Agbasi explained that this initiative was born out of the need to make travel smoother for Nigerians during the holiday season.
“Operation Connect to Your Destination is designed to enhance journey times and alleviate traffic congestion during the festive period,” Agbasi stated.
He added that the program focuses on alleviating the usual traffic pressures seen during the holidays, especially with the increase in movement between the north and south of the country.
With roads expected to become busier as people travel for the holidays, the government is prioritizing repairs in areas most affected by heavy traffic.
Engr. Agbasi noted that FERMA has carefully mapped out traffic-prone areas and will focus on maintaining these sections first to have the highest positive impact on travelers.
He expressed confidence that these repairs would result in smoother commuter movement, reduced travel time, and less congestion along Nigeria’s federal highways.
The project is also expected to boost the economy by creating job opportunities.
Agbasi revealed that the repair work would generate over 12,000 jobs, providing an economic boost while improving infrastructure.
The managing director emphasized that this repair project not only aims to make travel easier but also supports economic growth through job creation.
Engr. Sani Abdulkadir, Head of FERMA’s Direct Labour Department, noted that the agency is working diligently to ensure the project is completed on time.
He stated that the repairs are scheduled to be finalized by mid-December, ensuring that road users can travel without interruptions during the yuletide period.
Abdulkadir emphasized the urgency of completing the project before the holiday rush begins, as delays during peak travel season would defeat the purpose of the initiative.
Kano State’s Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Sector Commander, Umar Matazu, represented by Deputy Corps Marshal Abdulsalam Kabiru, expressed optimism about the road repair program.
He highlighted the importance of driver responsibility once the repairs are complete, urging road users to exercise caution and drive safely.
Kabiru reminded drivers that while the roads will be improved, safe driving remains crucial to prevent accidents and keep traffic flowing smoothly.
The FRSC official commended the Federal Government for its commitment to improving the nation’s road network, especially during a period of heightened travel.
This road repair initiative comes at a time when Nigeria’s infrastructure needs have been a pressing concern, with citizens often facing long delays, rough roads, and hazardous conditions on federal highways. For years, Nigerian road users have
