THE Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), marked a significant milestone Thursday with the inauguration of its sixth Governing Board at the Federal Ministry of Works, Conference Room, Abuja.
The Honourable Minister of Works, Sen. (Engr.) David Umahi, led the inauguration ceremony, extending congratulations to the appointed Board Members on their selection by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Minister emphasized the pivotal role of the Board in advancing FERMA’s mandate and aligning with the Federal Government’s renewed hope agenda for road infrastructure.
Highlighting the administration’s commitment to addressing road challenges, Sen. Umahi revealed President Tinubu’s approval of a supplementary budget for 236 road projects, marked for palliative intervention. He added that award letters will be given to the Contractors soonest to proceed to the site.
He assured the public of a transformative shift in road conditions over the next two years.
The Minister, however, charged the Board Members with patriotism and commitment to their duties, emphasizing the importance of their role in shaping FERMA’s trajectory.
He further added that Mr. President in conjunction with the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) to review the activities of the Agency.
The Managing Director/CEO FERMA, Engr. Chukwuemeka Agbasi, FNSE, FNIHTE expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Minister of Works Sen. David Umahi for finding them worthy of the appointment.
While pledging dedication to the Agency’s mandate, Engr. Agbasi outlined a vision for visible improvements in road conditions, reduced operating costs, and enhanced socio-economic conditions for road users during their four-year tenure.
He said, “We pledge to discharge our responsibility with the fear of God and align with the policy of the Federal Ministry of Works and also FERMA’s mandate”.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Mahmuda Manman, highlighted the historic nature of the inauguration, underscoring the members’ selection based on their experience and competence to ensure Nigeria’s roads become smooth and motorable.
The inaugurated Board members include:
The MD/CEO, Federal Roads Maintenance Agency, (FERMA) Engr. Chukwuemeka Agbasi, PhD, is a fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (FNSE) and a fellow of the Nigerian Highway Transport Engineers (FNIHTE).
With a stellar background in Civil Engineering from prestigious institutions like Imperial College, London and a wealth of International experience, Dr Agbasi brings over 30 years of expertise to the fore.
His transformative journey spans roles at the UK’s Highway Agency where he served as a Senior Structures Advisor and his groundbreaking work at FERMA. Leading the charge in Mainstreaming Assets Management and Pioneering Strategies for road network maintenance.
Dr. Agbasi holds certification in PRINCE 2 and PPP reflecting his commitment to excellence. His impact extends beyond borders collaborating with global entities like DFID, FCDO, USAID, and the World Bank.
Other members are; Yusuf Lawal Othman, representing NARTO; Engr. Ibi Terna Manasseh, representing FMW; ACM Shehu Mohammed representing FRSC; Babatunde Daramola-Oniru representing the Federal Ministry of Finance;
Others are; Hon. Preye Oseke representing South-South; Hon. Oye Ojobe representing South West; Dr Kenneth Ugbala representing South East; Sen. Timothy Adudu representing North Central; Engr. Abubakar Bappa representing the North- East and Aminu Adamu Papa representing North-West.
FERMA and its newly inaugurated Board, are poised to usher in a new era of road infrastructure development, fulfilling their commitment to the nation’s progress.
