FERMA Launches Operation Safeguard the Road

The Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) has launched Operation Safeguard the Road (OSGR), a programme aimed at enhancing the safety and quality of federal roads, while empowering youths along road corridors.

The launch took place on the Zuba-Giri-Abaji-Lokojo-Kogi State Border Road in Kwali, Abuja, the nation’s capital on Saturday.

OSGR is designed to improve road safety, reduce travel time and costs, and provide temporary employment opportunities for youths aged 18-45 in abutting communities.

Key components of the programme include:

-Vegetation control to enhance visibility
– Drainage management to prevent flooding.
– Minor repairs, including patching of potholes.
– Training on road maintenance operations for participants.
– Stipends for participants during the programme duration.

FERMA’s Managing Director/CEO, Engr. Emeka Agbasi, FNSE, stated that “the programme is part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to reduce poverty and road carnage.”

“The initiative will also contribute to the Agency’s Key Performance Indicator (KPI) and stimulate a sense of ownership among community youths, reducing vandalism of road furniture,” he said.

According to FERMA, this is not its first foray into such programmes having previously implemented Stakeholders Assisted Rights of Way Maintenance Implementation Programme (SHAROW-MIP) and Stakeholders Assisted Rights of Way Economic Sustainability Programme (SHAROW-ESP).

OSGR builds on these successes, serving as a social safety net and vital tool for transforming lives and bolstering economic resilience.

Hauwa Abu