The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, on Thursday, expressed deep sympathy over the tragic tanker explosion that occurred at Essa Village along the Lambata–Lapai–Bida Road in Niger State, which claimed several lives and destroyed properties.
Umahi, who commiserated with the families of the victims, the Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umar Bago, and the people of the state, described the incident as unfortunate and painful.
A statement issued by the minister’s Special Adviser on Media, Barrister Orji Unchenna Orji, in Abuja, quoted the Minister as directing immediate palliative works on the affected section of the road.
He announced the setting up of an emergency committee to collaborate with the project contractor, CGC Nigeria Limited, to ensure prompt rehabilitation.
The statement stated further that his action followed consultations with the Niger state governor, members of the National Assembly from the state, and the President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote.
Umahi disclosed that although the project was initially funded by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), the company’s recent withdrawal from nationwide funding arrangements prompted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to order a review of all ongoing projects previously financed under the scheme.
“The President has directed that all such inherited projects be reviewed and presented to him, and that none should be abandoned due to the exit of NNPCL from the funding scheme,” Umahi stated.
He added that the Ministry has completed the review process and would present the projects to the President next week.
The Minister also urged all contractors handling such projects, particularly those who have already submitted payment certificates, to return to their sites in anticipation of payments expected from November 2025.
Umahi stated that the Federal Government remains determined to deliver durable road infrastructure across the country to promote sustainable economic growth and ensure a lasting legacy for future generations.
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