As Nigerians prepare to welcome 2026, the Director-General of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), Dr Jobson Oseodion Ewalefoh, has called on citizens to meet the year with renewed hope, shared responsibility and confidence in the Nigeria infrastructure future.
Dr Ewalefoh said the new year presents an opportunity for reflection and renewed commitment to infrastructure delivery, which he described as a fundamental driver of economic growth, national productivity and improved living standards.
Nigeria infrastructure future
“A new year is not only a change of date; it is a renewed opportunity to build, to serve, and to deliver lasting value to our people,” Dr Ewalefoh said. “Infrastructure is ultimately about people — about access, opportunity and dignity.”
Looking back at 2025, the ICRC boss highlighted a series of Federal Executive Council approvals for major Public–Private Partnership projects as evidence that the federal government is steadily laying the groundwork to close Nigeria’s infrastructure deficit. He said these approvals reflect a deliberate shift towards well-structured, private-sector-led solutions that can mobilise investment, transfer risk and accelerate delivery.
Dr Ewalefoh emphasised that practical progress on roads, ports, power and other critical assets will underpin broader efforts to boost the economy and create jobs. By partnering with competent private investors, the government can focus on enabling regulation, robust project preparation and transparent procurement to ensure value for money and long-term sustainability.
He also urged citizens, business leaders and public servants to take shared responsibility for the nation’s development, noting that infrastructure projects succeed when communities participate and local needs are taken into account. “We must place delivery at the centre of our efforts,” he said.
Delivery, unity and progress
The ICRC director-general framed the transition into 2026 as a moment to renew faith and strengthen bonds of unity. He called on Nigerians to carry forward lessons from the past year with optimism, compassion and a clear sense of purpose.
Dr Ewalefoh asked for continued cooperation between federal and state authorities, the private sector and international partners to ensure projects move from approval to implementation. He said that improved coordination and a commitment to good governance are crucial to converting policy into concrete outcomes that benefit ordinary citizens.
“As we enter a new year, our focus must be on delivery, and may God grant our nation peace and wisdom, bringing renewed hope, steady progress and lasting prosperity for all Nigerians,” Dr Ewalefoh said.
He concluded by reaffirming the ICRC’s commitment to supporting transparent, bankable and people-centred infrastructure arrangements that will help shape a more prosperous and resilient Nigeria in 2026 and beyond.
Dr Jobson Oseodion Ewalefoh
Director-General, Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission
Key Takeaways:
- ICRC Director-General urges Nigerians to enter 2026 with renewed hope and shared responsibility for the Nigeria infrastructure future.
- Federal Executive Council approvals in 2025 of key PPP projects strengthen private-sector-led solutions to close the infrastructure gap.
- Focus on delivery, unity and peace to sustain steady progress and improve quality of life for citizens.
