Nigeria’s Minister of Works, David Umahi, has thrown open the doors of his ministry to scrutiny, inviting leading anti-corruption agencies to investigate road projects across the country in a move aimed at reinforcing transparency and public trust. The decision comes against the backdrop of growing public concerns and allegations surrounding corruption in infrastructure spending, particularly within the road construction sector.
Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday after receiving a “Personality of the Year” award, Umahi said the Ministry of Works has nothing to hide and is fully prepared to cooperate with investigators. According to him, all records relating to contracts, procurement, and project execution are readily available for examination. He emphasized that the invitation extended to anti-corruption agencies was not reactive but a deliberate step designed to demonstrate openness and accountability.
The minister disclosed that two of Nigeria’s foremost anti-graft bodies—the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)—have been formally contacted to carry out independent assessments of projects under the ministry’s supervision. He noted that this dual engagement underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that infrastructure development is free from corruption and mismanagement.
“There have been several allegations and accusations against us, but to show our transparency, we decided to open up the entire Ministry of Works for probe,” Umahi said during the event. His remarks signal a rare proactive move by a government official to invite scrutiny rather than respond defensively to allegations.
Providing updates on the process, Umahi revealed that the ICPC has already commenced its investigation, focusing on procurement procedures and compliance with due process. He stressed that the commission has been encouraged to go beyond paperwork and conduct physical inspections of project sites nationwide. This approach, he said, would provide a more accurate assessment of the quality and progress of ongoing and completed road works.
The EFCC, on the other hand, is expected to begin its own investigation after the Sallah holiday. Umahi reiterated that his ministry is fully prepared for the exercise, assuring that investigators would be granted unrestricted access to documents, files, and personnel as needed.
“We wrote to ICPC to go round and investigate all our projects, not on paper, but physically. We also wrote to EFCC. We are not hiding anything. Any file they want, any information, is available,” he stated.
The minister maintained that every contract awarded under his leadership can be justified and defended. He explained that project costs are transparently itemized, covering materials, labour, equipment, and other relevant components. According to him, this level of detail ensures that there is no ambiguity in how public funds are utilized.
“If you wake me up and ask about any project, we can disaggregate everything. There is nothing we do in this ministry that we cannot defend,” Umahi added, reinforcing his stance on accountability.
Beyond the issue of transparency, Umahi also addressed ongoing debates about the government’s decision to shift from asphalt to concrete in road construction. The policy change has generated mixed reactions from stakeholders, with some critics questioning its cost implications and practicality. However, the minister defended the move, describing it as a necessary reform aimed at improving the durability and long-term value of Nigeria’s road infrastructure.
He argued that while the transition may face resistance, concrete roads offer significant advantages over traditional asphalt surfaces. According to him, concrete roads are more resilient and require less frequent maintenance, making them more cost-effective over time.
“We fought a big battle to move from asphalt to concrete. Concrete roads will last up to 100 years with minimal maintenance,” he said, highlighting the long-term vision behind the policy.
Umahi also spoke on the broader economic and social impact of infrastructure, emphasizing the critical role of road networks in facilitating movement, trade, and national development. He noted that poor road conditions not only hinder economic activity but also impose significant hardships on citizens.
Drawing a vivid analogy, the minister likened damaged or impassable roads to a form of confinement, suggesting that inadequate infrastructure can effectively isolate communities and limit opportunities.
“When a road is cut into two, it is like putting people in prison,” he remarked, underscoring the urgency of improving road connectivity across the country.
In addition to addressing infrastructure and governance issues, Umahi used the opportunity to call for greater responsibility within the media. He cautioned journalists against the spread of unverified information, particularly on sensitive matters such as corruption allegations. While acknowledging the importance of press freedom, he urged media practitioners to prioritize accuracy, fairness, and professionalism in their reporting.
The minister’s remarks come at a time when public scrutiny of government spending is intensifying, with citizens increasingly demanding accountability in the use of public resources. By inviting independent investigations, Umahi appears to be taking a bold step toward addressing these concerns and setting a precedent for openness in public office.
Observers say the outcome of the probes by the ICPC and EFCC will be closely watched, as they could have significant implications for public confidence in the government’s infrastructure agenda. If the investigations affirm the ministry’s claims of transparency, they may help restore trust and strengthen support for ongoing and future projects. Conversely, any findings of irregularities could trigger calls for reforms and accountability.
For now, Umahi’s decision marks a notable moment in Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts, reflecting a willingness—at least at the ministerial level—to subject public institutions to independent scrutiny. As the investigations unfold, Nigerians will be looking for clear outcomes that not only address allegations but also reinforce the principles of transparency, accountability, and good governance in the management of national infrastructure.
