FERMA Launches “Operation Safeguard the Road” in Oyo State, Pledges Cleaner, Safer Highways

By Modupe Bankole

The Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), Oyo State Field Office, has officially launched the Operation Safeguard the Road (OSGR) initiative a nationwide programme aimed at preserving Nigeria’s federal road network and enhancing safety for all road users.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony held on Wednesday, at the Ibadan–Lagos Toll Gate, the Federal Roads Maintenance Engineer for Oyo State, Engineer. Outunde Adepoju, described the initiative as part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for safer, more durable, and sustainable road infrastructure across the country.

He explained that the programme, conceived under the leadership of FERMA’s Managing Director, Engineer. Dr. Emeka Agbasi, focuses on clearing roadside vegetation, desilting blocked drains, managing traffic, and patching potholes along critical corridors.

“We are committed to making our roads safer and more motorable by ensuring clear visibility for motorists, free-flowing drainage systems, and proper maintenance of road furniture,” Adepoju said.

According to him, the exercise will also provide short-term employment for over 50 local youths engaged along the 43 kilometre stretch currently covered by the project.

 “Their engagement has been duly documented to ensure transparency and accountability,” he added.

Adepoju thanked FERMA’s Managing Director, represented by the Zonal Director for South West I, Engineer. B.O. Aina, as well as stakeholders from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) for their support. “Together, we can make our roads safer and our nation stronger,” he said.

Addressing Press men, after the event, Adepoju acknowledged the enormous task of maintaining Nigeria’s vast federal road network amid limited resources and rising construction costs.

“In Oyo State alone, we oversee about 1,118 kilometres of federal roads. The government is doing its best, but development takes time. We can’t fix everything overnight,” he noted, urging public patience and cooperation.

He also condemned acts of vandalism and sabotage by individuals who damage newly repaired roads. “When people destroy public infrastructure, they waste taxpayers’ money. Protecting our roads is a collective responsibility,” he warned.

In his remarks, the South West Zonal Director emphasized the importance of cultivating a maintenance culture among Nigerians to ensure the longevity of public infrastructure. Stakeholders, including representatives of the FRSC, NSCDC, Police, and Oyo State Park Management System, described the initiative as timely and proactive, calling for stronger collaboration and public sensitization to reduce road accidents caused by reckless driving and poor road culture.

In conclusion, Adepoju reaffirmed FERMA’s commitment to sustaining the operation and expanding its reach.

 “This programme is not just about fixing roads,” he said. “It’s about building a culture of safety and maintenance that every Nigerian can be proud of.”