During a visit to Oyo state and a meeting with Governor Seyi Makinde in Ibadan on Thursday, Minister David Umahi of Works discussed the inability of President Bola Tinubu to reimburse state governments for their expenditures on federal roads due to the current economic conditions. Umahi acknowledged that the ongoing road interventions were easing the burden on citizens and emphasized that while the financial situation remains challenging, a review of work records would be conducted once the nation's fiscal health improves. The minister also lauded Governor Makinde's administration for its efforts in road projects within the South West region.

He said: “Let me commend you for the jobs you are doing here when I see examples of what I am preaching, in terms of alleviating the sufferings of the people, whether federal or state roads.

“I have seen a number of roads, and you are not saying you must have all the approvals before doing it. Let me make it very clear that our economy right now will not permit any commitment of the federal government to repay states that are doing federal roads.

“It is still one government, and the aim of the government and the oath of office sworn to is to place the welfare of the people ahead of any other interest.

“So, when I see governors that are doing exactly that, like Governor Seyi Makinde, I commend him very highly. But, we can all keep the records of the federal roads done by the states. When the economy starts to breathe, we can revisit that.

“If you are waiting for due process by the federal government saying it will refund, such will not be done, but it is the people that are suffering.

“So, I want to make it very clear that my commitment may not be to guarantee that there will be repayment, but I will guarantee to take the records, and when the people are smiling, both the states and the federal government can revisit the matter, and that is what the governor here is doing, and we’re excited.”