The Federal Government plans to set up Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras along the Mararaba-Keffi Road. This is to improve security on the highway and allow for real-time monitoring of activities on the road.
The Minister of Works, David Umahi, shared this information on Saturday during a visit to the Mararaba-Keffi road project.
Mr Umahi said this plan follows President Bola Tinubu's order to use technology to improve road infrastructure and boost security on major routes.
He mentioned that the Mararaba-Keffi Road project will serve as a model for future security programs on highways across Nigeria.
"This project is going to be a pilot project as directed by the President.
“He wants all our routes to have CCTV, and so, we have embedded a CCTV programme in this project.
“We want to build an observation section where we will do our CCTV, just like the second Niger Bridge.
“We are reviving the highway security and safety, which is a department in the police section," he said.
Mr Umahi explained that the project will include solar-powered lighting, surveillance systems, and observation facilities. This will allow security agencies to watch road activities in real time.
He also said the federal government is working with the Nigeria Police Force to bring back the Highway Patrol and Safety Unit.
He added that CCTV systems and quick-response measures will help fight insecurity and improve emergency response on the highways.
"When we install CCTV and solar lights on our roads, security personnel will be able to monitor activities remotely, and response time to incidents will be significantly reduced," he said.
Mr Umahi praised the local construction company, JRB Construction Limited, for its work on the Mararaba-Keffi road project. He called the company one of Nigeria’s most dependable local contractors.
He revealed that JRB is managing about 40 kilometers of the road and has already finished about 21 kilometers of binder course in eight months, despite facing funding issues.
"I have consistently maintained that JRB is one of the best indigenous contractors in the country because of the quality of its work.
“The equipment it possesses and its commitment to partnering with the federal government have stood the company out," the minister stated.
He noted that the contractor started work at the site before getting paid, which helped to avoid further delays on the project.
Mr Umahi warned that the government will soon review how contractors are performing on federal road projects. This applies to both local and foreign firms.
He said contractors who do not invest resources, mobilize equipment, and show commitment to delivering projects will not be tolerated.
"We are going to identify those contractors who are genuine partners in progress and those who simply wait for mobilisation funds before doing any work," he said.
Mr Umahi also ordered repairs to damaged parts of the existing road to reduce traffic congestion and improve conditions for drivers until the reconstruction is done.
"We must address the potholes and failed sections first because they affect the daily lives of road users.
“Reducing travel delays and improving safety is just as important as constructing new roads," he said.
The minister raised concerns about how milled asphalt materials from project sites are disposed of. He insisted they should be recycled and reused for road construction.
Mr Umahi also warned officials of the Ministry of Works that directors and project supervisors will be held accountable if they fail to follow approved directives.
He emphasized that public officials must take responsibility for delivering projects and ensuring the federal government’s infrastructure plans succeed.
"The President has provided the support and resources required for us to succeed.
“Every official must play his or her role because nation-building is the responsibility of all of us," he said.
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