ASCSN President Calls for Innovation, Resilience in Nigeria’s Infrastructure

The National President of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN), Comrade Muhammed Shehu, has called for a transformative approach to Nigeria’s infrastructure, emphasizing the need for innovation, sustainability and resilience.

Speaking at the second edition of the Construction Projects Conference organized by the Nigeria Bar Association’s Section on Business Law (NBA-SBL), held in Asaba on Thursday, Shehu highlighted the urgent need for systemic reforms.

The ASCSN boss, who also spoke on the conference theme: “Making Construction and Infrastructure Projects Work Better,” stressed that reliable infrastructure, particularly in the power sector, is essential for economic growth and national progress.

Shehu advocated the need for a more efficient, innovative, and sustainable approach to the nation’s construction sector.

“This forum is critical as it brings together visionaries, policymakers, and professionals united by a shared commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s construction and infrastructure landscape as it underscores the growing importance of the sector in a country poised for significant economic progress,” he said.

According to him, infrastructure is the very bedrock upon which economic prosperity rest on. The significance of infrastructure extends far beyond roads and bridges; it is the fundamental building block of any thriving society.

Reflecting on the recent challenges facing the nation, particularly the collapse of the national electricity grid, Shehu made a compelling case for a renewed focus on resilient and well-planned infrastructure projects in the power sector.

“Reliable electricity is the backbone of industrialization and economic growth,” while addressing systemic failures in our power sector is crucial to ensuring that infrastructure projects deliver their intended benefits.”

Shehu, however, lauded the strides made by Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State in terms of infrastructural development; adding that the governor had made impressive achievements in the ongoing efforts to modernise the state infrastructure as a model for others to follow.

“Delta’ State’s commitment to economic progress is recently acknowledged by This Day Newspapers, which conferred an award on Governor Elder Sheriff Oborevwori for his exceptional leadership in the realm of construction.

“In Delta State, we have seen firsthand how well-planned infrastructure can drive economic growth, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for citizens,” Shehu remarked, highlighting the significant impact that effective project execution can have at the state level.

Shehu reiterated the association’s commitment to supporting projects that are pivotal to national development, noting that civil servants, particularly those at the directorate cadre, play an integral role in ensuring that the projects are not only completed on time but are also executed with excellence.

“The ASCSN recognises the importance of strong infrastructure in driving national progress. We will continue to support initiatives that further this cause,” he declared.

He also pledged the union’s ongoing involvement in advocating for more efficient public service practices that contribute to the overall success of national infrastructure efforts.

Shehu expressed his deep appreciation to the organizers of the conference for creating a platform that facilitates dialogue among key stakeholders.

Speaking, Dr Bolum Nwachukwu, Chairman of the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria in Delta State, NBA-SBL for hosting an insightful and impactful programme.

Nwachukwu also praised the Governor of Delta State for his consistent commitment to development of the state and supportive policies that prioritize the needs of workers in the state.

As the conference unfolded, it became clear that the discussions held here would not only shape the future of Delta State’s infrastructure but would have ripple effects throughout Nigeria.