FG to establish steering committee for FERMA funding solutions

By Kunle Sanni

The Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, has directed the establishment of a steering committee to explore alternative funding sources for the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA).

Speaking at a one-day retreat for FERMA’s Board and Management in Abuja, Goronyo emphasized the need for sustainable financing beyond annual budget allocations, noting that no country effectively maintains road infrastructure through budgetary provisions alone.

The retreat, themed “Delivering FERMA’s Mandate Aligned to the Renewed Hope Agenda,” focused on strategies to enhance road maintenance nationwide.

The minister explained that the committee will identify viable funding streams, including those outlined in the FERMA Act, to enable the agency to fulfill its mandate efficiently.

He stressed that well-maintained roads are critical to national development, impacting sectors such as healthcare, education, security, and economic growth.

Commending FERMA’s Managing Director, Dr. Emeka Agbasi, for his leadership despite financial constraints, Goronyo described him as a “silent achiever” working tirelessly to keep roads in good condition. He also urged FERMA’s Board to continue supporting the agency’s management in delivering on its mandate.

The minister assured stakeholders of ongoing collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Works, FERMA, and other relevant agencies to improve road maintenance nationwide.

Earlier, Dr. Agbasi highlighted the retreat’s role in developing practical solutions to the agency’s challenges.

He noted that discussions focused on aligning FERMA’s operations with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and improving funding strategies.

Dr. Agbasi also expressed appreciation to Minister Goronyo and Permanent Secretary Engr. Adebiyi Olusesan Olufunso for initiating the retreat, which he said would serve as a blueprint for enhancing FERMA’s performance in the coming year.