The Minister of Works has stated that the N800 billion allocated to the ministry in the 2025 budget proposal is insufficient to meet the nation’s road infrastructure requirements.
During a budget defense session held by the House Committee on Works, the Minister emphasized the urgent need for a review of the proposed budgetary allocation to facilitate improvements in the country’s road network.
“We appeal for your assistance. The N800 billion is inadequate and will not address our road infrastructure challenges. We urge you to enhance our funding,” he remarked.
He highlighted the necessity for sufficient funding to complete ongoing projects and initiate new ones across Nigeria. The Minister pointed out that the current budget would not cover the volume of road projects planned, advocating for borrowing as a viable solution to address the country’s infrastructure deficits.
“In times of recession, borrowing is essential for infrastructure development. This investment will stimulate economic activities, alleviating the current hunger crisis. Supporting infrastructure will revitalize various sectors, including food supply and construction materials,” he stated.
The chairman of the committee assured that the Minister of Finance and the Head of the Budget Office would be summoned to clarify the reasoning behind the ministry’s lower budget allocation.
