According to reports by Vanguard Saturday, 11th October, 2025 The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, has hit back at Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, over his recent comments on the cost of federal road projects. Umahi, visibly irritated, made his response on Saturday during an inspection of the Keffi section of the Abuja–Mararaba–Keffi road, alongside Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule.
Speaking to journalists, Umahi emphasized that he holds immense respect for governors across the country and the Nigeria Governors’ Forum. However, he said he would not remain silent if any governor, especially one he considers a junior in both engineering and governance, disrespects him. “One thing I’m very good at is mathematics. I’m an ‘A’ student in mathematics,” Umahi asserted confidently.
Addressing the ongoing controversy surrounding the cost of road projects per kilometre, Umahi clarified that the Abuja–Keffi project spans 43 kilometres but was extended to 45 kilometres using the ₦73 billion allocated by the previous administration. He explained that the cost of a road project cannot be generalized, as it depends on several factors such as whether the road shoulders are made of asphalt, concrete, or surface tracing.
The minister accused some critics of being mischievous by comparing road costs without understanding these variations. He added that the total cost also includes elements of contingency and variations of price (VOP), which might not always be utilized. Umahi further schooled his critics on the difference between “estimated” and “average” costs, noting that only after a project’s completion can one determine an accurate cost per kilometre.
Taking a direct jab at Makinde, Umahi said, “Governor Makinde is my friend and brother, but he is an electrical engineer. This is road construction electrical electronics no reach there. I am his senior in both engineering and governance. If there’s something he doesn’t understand, he should call me and ask.”
Umahi maintained that he would not trade insults but demanded that Makinde withdraw his statement suggesting the minister was “dancing around.” He also challenged the Oyo governor to a public debate if he insists on his claim.
The minister concluded by addressing the persistent traffic congestion along the Abuja–Mararaba–Keffi highway, stating that a permanent solution would require collaboration with the Nasarawa State Government. He urged the state to remove illegal roadside structures and markets encroaching on the road corridor, promising that the Federal Ministry of Works would construct additional carriageways once the demolitions were completed to ease traffic in the area. See, More, Here>>>
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