David Umahi, Nigeria’s Minister of Works, has stated that the N800 billion allocated to his ministry in the 2025 budget proposal is insufficient to address the country’s road infrastructure needs.
Speaking at the 2025 budget defence session organised by the House Committee on Works on Friday, Umahi, a former two-time governor of Ebonyi State, urged the committee to increase the ministry’s funding for the upcoming fiscal year.
“We are pleading for your help. N800 billion is inadequate—it cannot meet our road requirements. We appeal for your assistance,” he said.
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The Minister emphasised that the current budget would not be enough to complete ongoing projects or start new ones, highlighting the need for adequate funding to address the nation’s infrastructure demands.
He also pointed out the challenges posed by the funding shortfall, noting that numerous unfinished road projects cannot be completed with such a “meagre budget.”
He suggested borrowing as a practical solution to bridge the gap and tackle Nigeria’s infrastructure deficit.
“When the nation is in recession, borrowing for infrastructure investment is crucial. It’s the path to recovery. Infrastructure spurs economic activity, helping sectors like food vendors, sand suppliers, and gravel suppliers. Supporting this initiative will pave the way for Nigeria’s greatness,” Umahi added.
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During the session, he responded to queries from committee members about the state of national roads and reiterated the government’s commitment to completing ongoing projects.
In response, committee chairman Akin Alabi promised to call on Finance Minister Wale Edun and Budget Office Head Tanimu Yakub to justify the ministry’s budget allocation.
