The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has defended the federal government’s borrowing policy under President Bola Tinubu, saying it is necessary for national development, especially in road infrastructure.

Umahi made the remarks on Monday during a meeting in Abuja with the Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, at the Ministry of Works.

He explained that borrowing is essential to fund large-scale infrastructure projects that support security, commerce, and economic growth.

“When people say, ‘Why is he borrowing?’ the president is borrowing so that our roads can be good. Infrastructure, roads, everything. Without roads, it’s difficult for the security agencies. Without roads, it’s difficult for commerce to thrive,” Umahi said.

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The minister disclosed that over 80 percent of ongoing road projects, valued at about ₦34 trillion, were inherited from previous administrations, some dating back as far as 2000.

He said the Tinubu administration chose to continue the projects because of their importance to national development.

According to him, the government has also adopted reinforced concrete pavement technology, which he claimed could make roads last between 50 and 100 years with minimal maintenance.

Key Infrastructure Projects

Umahi highlighted several flagship projects under the administration, including:

• Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway
• Sokoto–Badagry Highway
• Calabar–Ebonyi–Benue–Kogi–Nasarawa–Abuja corridor
• Akwanga–Jos–Bauchi–Gombe–Biu–Maiduguri route

He said Section 1 of the 47.47km Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway had been completed and was already attracting investor interest in tolling and financing models.

He also noted that the 375km Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano road project is being fitted with solar lighting, with the first 118km already completed at a cost of ₦252 billion. The next phase is expected to be delivered by November.

Security And Project Delivery

Umahi acknowledged that insecurity had slowed down some road projects in certain areas but said collaboration with security agencies had improved access and progress on construction sites.

He added that the ministry is planning to introduce security infrastructure along major highways, including CCTV systems, solar lighting, rest stops, and surveillance centres, under concession arrangements.

Call For Continued Support For Tinubu

The minister urged Nigerians to support President Tinubu’s reforms and leadership, insisting that his administration is best positioned to complete ongoing infrastructure development.

“I don’t believe that they can do better. So it’s good for the president to continue the next five years,” Umahi said.

His comments come amid ongoing national debate over government borrowing and rising public debt, with supporters arguing it is necessary for development and critics warning about long-term fiscal risks.