FG To Secure Highways With CCTV, Solar Power
FG to Use CCTV, Solar Lights to Safeguard Federal Infrastructure
THE Federal Government has announced plans to install solar-powered lights and CCTV cameras on federal highways and bridges nationwide to enhance security, prevent vandalism and monitor infrastructure performance.
The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, made the disclosure on Saturday in Enugu after inspecting major road and bridge projects across the South-East.
Umahi said the move forms part of broader efforts by the Bola Tinubu administration to protect critical infrastructure and ensure quality delivery.
South-East Project Inspection Tour
The minister inspected several key projects, including the Enugu–Port Harcourt Highway, Enugu–Onitsha Road, the Eke-Obinagu Flyover, the Second Niger Bridge, and the Asaba–Onitsha Expressway.
Other projects include the Enugu–Abakaliki–Ogoja Highway, multiple bridges and two flyovers.
He said the inspection was aimed at verifying project status and ensuring adherence to approved standards.
Security and Monitoring Beyond Bridges
Umahi emphasised that surveillance measures would not be confined to bridges.
“Our deployment of solar lights and CCTV cameras will cover bridges and all federal highways,” he said.
According to the minister, the systems would allow authorities to monitor infrastructure in real time, respond swiftly to incidents and deter criminal activity.
Completion of Enugu–Lokpanta Section
The minister confirmed the completion of the 61-kilometre Enugu–Lokpanta section of the Enugu–Port Harcourt Highway.
“This stretch is fully completed, and it is very vital,” he said.
He also noted that an additional three kilometres of Port Harcourt Road had been completed.
New Maintenance Directive
Umahi disclosed that the government has issued a directive prohibiting the removal of laid asphalt on federal roads.
“We have different treatments for different roads, but no asphalt should be removed,” he said.
The directive, he explained, is intended to improve durability and reduce unnecessary reconstruction.
Commitment to Sustainable Infrastructure
The minister said the use of technology, stricter oversight and new maintenance policies underscore the administration’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure.
He added that protecting federal roads is essential to economic growth, safety and regional connectivity.
