NANS leadership carrying out an on-the-spot assessment during the tour at the First Niger Bridge on Monday. Photo: Ikenna Obianeri.
The National Association of Nigerian Students has embarked on a tour of some strategic Federal Government road projects across the South-East to conduct a first-hand assessment of the progress and quality of work being carried out by the Federal Ministry of Works.
The exercise, which began on Monday, saw the student leaders tour several federal projects, including the flyover bridge at Eke/Obinagu Junction along the Enugu-Abakaliki Road, the Enugu-Onitsha Dual Carriageway, the Second Niger Bridge linking the Asaba-Onitsha Road in Delta and Anambra states (Phase 2B), and the Onitsha-Owerri Expressway in Anambra and Imo states.
NANS Senate President, Ibeabuchi Onyia, led other national executives, zonal structures, state executives, campus leaders and students who arrived in Awka, the Anambra State capital, and proceeded to the First Niger Bridge on Monday.
As part of the tour, the NANS delegation engaged some residents on the importance of infrastructural development and consciousness.
Speaking to journalists during the exercise, Onyia praised President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of Works, David Umahi, for undertaking what he described as laudable projects across the region.
Onyia said, “The delegation noted the high standard of construction, the professionalism of the engineers and contractors on site, and the visible pace of work on every project inspected.
“The quality of materials, the road alignment and the safety features all met expectations. The engineering designs, construction quality, safety features, and overall finish reflect a commitment to modern infrastructure standards that meet the expectations of Nigerians.
“We also observed that these roads are already easing travel for students, traders and commuters, and are reducing the risks road users face daily. We commended the Federal Ministry of Works for the standard and professionalism displayed across the projects.”
Onyia added that the work reflected a government that was serious about delivering infrastructure that would last, and urged the ministry to sustain the momentum through to completion.
On behalf of the Senate of NANS and Nigerian students, the Senate President passed a vote of confidence in the Minister of Works, David Umahi, for his commitment, hands-on supervision and results. A vote of confidence was also passed on President Bola Tinubu, GCFR, for his leadership and sustained investment in infrastructure.
“NANS specifically appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for opening up these vital corridors. The dualisation works, the Second Niger Bridge (Phase 2B), the Onitsha–Owerri Expressway, and the Eke/Obinagu flyover are not merely construction projects; they are catalysts for new economic opportunities, improved inter-state commerce, accelerated developmental growth, and enhanced safety for millions of road users, including students who regularly travel these routes for academic, commercial, and social purposes.
“These interventions will reduce travel time, lower vehicle operating costs, stimulate local economies along the corridors, and significantly improve safety for all citizens of the South-East and adjoining states,” Onyia added.
He thanked the NANS leaders and students who took part in the tour and encouraged them to continue monitoring public infrastructure and providing constructive feedback.
He reaffirmed NANS’ commitment to partnering with the government for national development.