The Honourable Minister of Works, Senator Engr. David Nweze Umahi, CON, has charged Federal Controllers of Works across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to prioritise the interests of Nigerians and take full ownership of federal road projects under their supervision.
Umahi gave the charge on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, during the Ministry’s monthly meeting with Federal Controllers of Works held at the Ministry’s headquarters in Mabushi, Abuja.
The meeting serves as a regular platform for reviewing the progress of federal road projects, addressing implementation challenges and strengthening supervision, accountability and quality assurance in project delivery.
Umahi Urges Controllers to Embrace Continuous Learning
The Minister urged the Controllers to take greater interest in construction activities and make continuous professional learning a priority.
He stressed that effective supervision requires not only professional qualifications but also practical knowledge and a clear understanding of activities taking place on project sites.
“Take interest in the construction. Read your books to improve. I learn a lot from the site, not from the office,” Umahi said.
He encouraged the Federal Controllers to spend more time at project sites, understand construction realities and maintain close engagement with communities and people directly affected by federal infrastructure projects.
“Put Nigerians First”
Umahi emphasised that public service becomes more meaningful when it is driven by genuine commitment and passion for the people.
According to the Minister, putting citizens at the centre of project supervision should remain a fundamental responsibility of every public servant involved in infrastructure delivery.
“When you put the people first, you are putting God first. You will enjoy your job. You will be happy with the job.”
The Minister further encouraged the Controllers to remain diligent and committed to their responsibilities, noting that the success of federal road projects should ultimately be measured by their positive impact on the lives of Nigerians.
Umahi Reflects on Ebonyi Governance Experience
Reflecting on his tenure as Governor of Ebonyi State, Umahi attributed his achievements in office to faith, commitment to the people and a strong sense of responsibility.
“When I was Governor, God gave me the revelation that I had the ability to do so many things. That was God’s direction,” he recalled.
He urged the Federal Controllers to approach their responsibilities with the same sense of dedication, explaining that genuine commitment to public service can bring both professional fulfilment and lasting benefits to society.
Minister Calls for Stronger Site Engagement
Umahi reiterated the importance of active supervision, continuous learning and direct engagement with ongoing construction works.
He urged the Controllers to remain passionate about delivering quality infrastructure and ensure that federal road projects are executed according to approved standards and specifications.
The Minister also stressed that taking ownership of projects requires officials to understand the challenges contractors face, engage relevant stakeholders and proactively address issues that could affect timely and quality delivery.
The monthly meeting reaffirmed the Federal Ministry of Works’ commitment to strengthening project supervision, accountability and quality infrastructure delivery across Nigeria.
Francis Nwaze, FIPMD
Senior Special Assistant to the Honourable Minister of Works (Media)
August 12, 2026
Hope you find the Above publication useful, Calabargist will love to keep you updated via our newsletter by subscribing with your email.
