By Daniel Tyokua
Retiring Director of Highways, Construction and Rehabilitation at the Federal Ministry of Works, Mr. Clement Ogbuagu, has called on the Federal Government to increase funding for road infrastructure across the country.
Ogbuagu made the appeal on Thursday during a farewell ceremony organised in his honour by the Federal Ministry of Works, saying sustained investment in federal highways was essential to driving economic growth and improving connectivity across the country.
He described the road sector as the backbone of Nigeria’s economy which must be taken more seriously.
Ogbuagu said, road infrastructure remains the foundation of national development, stressing that inadequate funding could undermine economic activities and slow the country’s progress.
“The road sector drives the economy. Without roads, economic activities suffer.
“The Federal Government should continue to prioritise funding for road infrastructure by releasing funds promptly so that projects can be completed on schedule and the sector can continue to support national development,” he said.
The retiring director commended the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, for introducing innovative technologies in highway construction, particularly the adoption of concrete pavement, which he said has significantly improved the quality and durability of federal roads.
On his career, Ogbuagu thanked God and the Federal Government for the opportunity to serve, saying his years in the civil service gave him the privilege of working with people from every part of the country.
He also urged civil servants to remain disciplined, uphold the rules of the service and carry out their responsibilities with integrity to ensure rewarding careers and honourable retirement.
Ogbuagu further applauded the ongoing reforms under the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (FCSSIP), especially the digitalisation of government operations, calling for sustained support and funding to deepen the reforms.
Earlier, senior officials of the ministry paid glowing tributes to the retiring director, describing him as a dedicated, humble and consummate professional whose contributions to the nation’s road sector would remain a reference point.
The Minister of State for Works, Mohammed Goronyo particularly praised Ogbuagu’s calm disposition and unwavering commitment to duty, urging members of staff to emulate his professionalism, integrity and selfless service.
