By Cross Udo, Abuja
The Federal Government on Thursday unveiled a Presidential Task Force on Power Sector Reform and defended the rising cost of federal road projects, insisting that current infrastructure investments are designed for durability and long-term economic growth.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, disclosed this after the fifth Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting chaired by President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Idris said President Tinubu approved the creation of the task force to spearhead broad reforms in the electricity sector, alongside the appointment of former Minister of Power, Lanre Babalola, as Special Adviser on Power.
“The task force is part of renewed efforts by the administration to reposition the power sector as a critical driver of industrialisation and economic growth,” Idris said.
According to him, the task force will include key ministers, regulators, and private sector players to tackle structural bottlenecks that have hampered stable electricity supply.
He said the administration remains committed to overhauling the sector to boost industrial productivity and improve living standards nationwide.
On infrastructure, Minister of Works David Umahi defended the cost profile of ongoing and approved projects, saying quality and durability justify the expenditure.
“When people talk about cost, we must look at unit pricing and quality. What we are doing now is cheaper and far more durable than what was done years ago,” Umahi said.
He explained that the government has adopted continuously reinforced concrete pavement technology for major highways to ensure longer lifespan and reduced maintenance costs.
Umahi said flagship projects, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway, are progressing under this strategy.
He also confirmed the reconstruction of Carter Bridge in Lagos after structural evaluations ruled out rehabilitation.
“This is not just rehabilitation. It is a complete rebuilding to modern standards,” he stated.
The minister disclosed that several completed road segments, including parts of the Abuja-Kaduna, Kano-Jigawa, and Suleja-Minna highways, are ready for commissioning.
Umahi added that the government is deploying alternative funding mechanisms such as tax credits and tolling to sustain project delivery.
“Our infrastructure drive is focused on building durable, long-term assets that support trade, mobility and national integration,” he said.
The FEC meeting also featured the swearing-in of a new INEC National Commissioner and four permanent secretaries.
