Minister of State for Works, Barrister Bello Goronyo, made this known while addressing journalists in Sokoto during an assessment of the ministry’s activities over the past two years.

According to the Minister, the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu inherited over 36,000 kilometres of road projects from the previous government.

He noted that despite the daunting challenge, the Tinubu administration has remained committed to completing these projects.

“The President directed us to complete the inherited projects in addition to initiating new ones. Among them are the four legacy projects of this administration, including the 1,068-kilometre Illela-Sokoto-Lagos-Badagry road that cuts across seven states. Work has already commenced, and significant progress has been made,” Goronyo stated.

He revealed that the Ministry has so far completed 260 road projects across the country, spanning all six geopolitical zones.

However, he identified the non-payment of compensation for affected lands as a major obstacle to further progress.

“Some state governments have not fulfilled their responsibility to pay compensation for lands within their jurisdiction. Unfortunately, we cannot proceed with construction where compensation issues are unresolved,” he explained.

Goronyo also highlighted the impact of insecurity, revealing that some construction firms have lost staff to attacks in volatile regions.

He added that the Ministry is working closely with the Office of the National Security Adviser to enhance security along project corridors.

“Vandalism is another critical issue affecting road infrastructure,” the said, citing a recent incident in Jaji, where a vandalized bridge led to multiple casualties after vehicles plunged into a ditch before repairs were made.

“Acts of vandalism such as stealing iron roads, burning tyres on roads or digging holes without authorization continue to pose serious risks. These actions not only damage infrastructure but endanger lives. We need a national reorientation to curb road abuse,” he warned.

Despite the challenges, Goronyo expressed confidence in the administration’s resolve to improve infrastructure and attract investment.

“President Tinubu is committed to opening Nigeria for business, but this can only be achieved with a solid infrastructure base. I assure Nigerians that the President is walking the talk, and more developments are on the way,” he said.