The Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, has officially commenced the construction of two bypasses on the Second Niger Bridge, enhancing connectivity between the Asaba-Benin and Enugu-Onitsha expressways. To facilitate this development, the government has allocated 30% mobilization funds to kick-start the project. Additionally, the Federal Government has assured that the reconstruction of the flood-damaged East-West Road in Rivers State will be completed between December 2025 and March 2026. Government’s Commitment to Infrastructure Development During an inspection tour of federal road projects in Rivers State, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, provided an update on the progress. He highlighted the government’s commitment to infrastructure enhancement, noting that mobilization payments for critical road projects, including Abuja-Kano (sections 1 and 3), have also been made. Umahi expressed enthusiasm about the commencement of the Second Niger Bridge bypasses, emphasizing that construction is being handled by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) and China Jiangxi Corporation (CJC). The 30% mobilization ensures the timely execution of the project, which will integrate the newly completed Second Niger Bridge into Nigeria’s national road network. Key Federal Road Projects Underway As part of his two-day project inspection, Umahi visited several ongoing federal road construction sites, including: Boosting Local Contractors for Sustainable Development Umahi reiterated President Tinubu’s directive to empower local contractors to bridge infrastructural gaps. He emphasized that while expatriate contractors play a role, developing local expertise is essential for long-term sustainability. Speaking on the East-West Road project, Umahi stated, “Ensuring the road’s stability is our priority. A major factor contributing to rapid deterioration is poor structural support, and we are tackling this issue by reinforcing key sections with concrete technology.” Conclusion With the federal government prioritizing key infrastructure projects, the Second Niger Bridge bypasses and the East-West Road reconstruction will significantly improve transportation and economic activities across Nigeria. For more updates on Nigeria’s infrastructure development, visit Federal Ministry of Works. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
The Bayelsa State Government has officially launched the construction of a modern nine-storey civil service secretariat in Yenagoa, a transformative project valued at N46 billion. The groundbreaking event, which took place on Saturday, was graced by top government officials, including the Head of Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack, who lauded the initiative. A Milestone for Bayelsa’s Civil Service Infrastructure This ambitious project builds upon the state government’s prior move in September 2024 when it awarded a N45 billion contract for the development of the secretariat complex. Designed to enhance working conditions, the new facility will serve as an electronic secretariat, integrating cutting-edge technology to improve workflow efficiency. According to the Nigerian News Agency (NAN), Mrs. Walson-Jack expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating that a thriving civil service depends on qualified personnel, sound policies, and an enabling work environment. She noted that this initiative aligns with broader national efforts to bolster administrative effectiveness at both state and federal levels. Governor Douye Diri’s Vision for a Modern Secretariat Speaking during the flag-off ceremony, Governor Douye Diri emphasized that the new office complex addresses the longstanding concerns of civil servants regarding inadequate office spaces. He recalled that workers had consistently raised this issue, particularly during Workers’ Day celebrations, prompting his administration to act decisively. “The repeated request from civil servants for better office accommodation motivated my decision to build this new secretariat,” Governor Diri stated. He further assured that the project’s funding was secure, with 30% of the total budget already disbursed to contractors and another 20% set for release as construction progresses. Project Features and Timeline Bayelsa State Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Mr. Moses Teibowei, provided insights into the scope of the project. He revealed that the nine-storey edifice, covering 3,675.633 square meters, will incorporate eco-friendly architectural designs and offer parking for 155 vehicles. Carlos Zanone, Operations Director of Megastar Technical and Construction Company Ltd., highlighted that the secretariat would feature modern amenities, including: The project is expected to be completed by 2026, significantly improving the work environment for Bayelsa’s civil service personnel. Bayelsa’s Commitment to Administrative Excellence The construction of this high-tech secretariat represents a significant step in strengthening Bayelsa’s administrative infrastructure. By prioritizing innovation and sustainability, the state government is ensuring that civil servants operate in a professional and efficient work environment. For more details on Nigeria’s infrastructure developments, visit the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
TCN announces power rationing in parts of Abuja from Jan. 6–20 due to the FCDA’s road dualisation project along the Apo axis. Affected areas include Kubwa, Karu, Nyanya, and others. The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has disclosed plans to ration electricity supply in parts of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) serviced by the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC). The rationing will take place from January 6 to January 20, 2025, as part of efforts to facilitate the Federal Capital Development Authority’s (FCDA) ongoing road dualisation project along the Apo axis. In a statement issued in Abuja on Saturday, TCN’s General Manager for Public Affairs, Mrs. Ndidi Mbah, explained that the relocation of eight 132 kV and 33 kV transmission towers along the Kukwaba/Apo 132 kV line (Outer Southern Expressway) is necessary to ensure the road project progresses as planned. Areas Affected by Power Rationing The power supply rationing will affect the following areas: Planned Power Outages Mrs. Mbah revealed that the power interruptions will occur daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM during the relocation period. These outages are necessary to dismantle the old towers, construct new ones, and restring power cables to reconnect the transmission network. She stated, “The relocation is critical to completing the road project, but we sincerely regret the inconvenience this planned power outage will cause our esteemed customers.” Restoration Timeline Mbah reassured residents that electricity supply would resume immediately after the relocation and cable restringing are completed. She also expressed TCN’s commitment to minimizing the impact of the outage while ensuring smooth execution of the project. AEDC Announcement The Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) had earlier alerted customers about the anticipated power disruption across parts of its franchise areas from January 6 to January 21. The utility company emphasized that this was a collaborative effort with TCN to facilitate the ongoing infrastructure development in the capital city. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
President Tinubu Defends Borrowing as a Strategy to Address Nigeria’s Deficits President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has shed light on the reasons behind his administration’s borrowing practices, emphasizing that taking loans is not inherently a criminal act. Speaking during a presidential media chat on Monday, Tinubu addressed concerns surrounding the projected deficit of ₦13.39 trillion in the proposed 2025 national budget, which the government plans to fund through borrowing. Tinubu explained, “Borrowing is not criminal. What we are dealing with is a mismatch between our immediate needs and the resources available. Nigeria is grappling with a significant infrastructural deficit that must be addressed.” He further elaborated that past missteps have contributed to the current economic challenges, but his focus remains on fostering prosperity. “Yes, mistakes were made in the past, but dwelling on them won’t help. Instead, we must take decisive action to invest in our nation’s future,” Tinubu added. The President outlined that the loans would focus on capital projects critical to Nigeria’s development. He highlighted poor road infrastructure, subpar internet connectivity, insufficient electricity supply, and inefficiencies in power generation as areas requiring urgent attention. “To achieve progress, we must embrace these challenges head-on,” he said. The 2025 national budget, totaling ₦47.96 trillion, was presented last Wednesday to a joint session of the National Assembly. It prioritizes defence, infrastructure development, and human capital investments, with a significant portion funded through loans. However, the administration’s borrowing plans have drawn criticism from various quarters. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar recently criticized the growing debt burden, accusing the National Assembly of enabling excessive borrowing. Atiku expressed concerns about the proposed Eurobond loans and described the debts as placing unbearable pressure on Nigerians and the economy. While public reactions remain divided, Tinubu maintains that borrowing, when strategically applied, is a necessary tool for long-term national growth. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.

