The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has reiterated the federal government’s (FG) commitment to completing critical infrastructure projects across Nigeria, setting strict expectations for contractors during his inspection of road projects in the South-East and South-South geopolitical zones.
During the tour, which began on January 7, 2025, Umahi visited several major projects, including the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway, the East-West Road, and the Bodo-Bonny Road.
While expressing satisfaction with some of the work done, the Minister also issued stern warnings to contractors lagging behind schedule, emphasising the need to meet deadlines.
At the East-West Road, Section III (Eleme Junction–Onne Junction), handled by Reynolds Construction Company (RCC), the Minister commended the quality of work but insisted on faster progress.
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He warned the contractor to deploy more resources or risk the re-scoping and re-award of the project if it is not delivered by the April 2025 deadline.
Inspecting the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway, Section III (Umuahia–Aba), Umahi praised Arab Contractors (Nig.) Ltd for their work but directed them to expand operations by deploying resources to two additional sites to meet the project timeline.
In Section IV (Aba–Port Harcourt), managed by China Civil Engineering Construction Company (CCECC), the Minister expressed displeasure at the slow pace, citing the contractor’s underutilization of the N21 billion allocated in 2024.
He instructed the Federal Controller of Works in Rivers State to issue a warning, with termination as a potential consequence if no improvements are made.
The Minister also visited the Bodo-Bonny Road, a crucial infrastructure project comprising a 2-lane road, 17 bridges totalling 3,200 meters, and reinforced concrete pavements.
Despite the contractor, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc (JBN), working through the holidays, Umahi was dissatisfied with the progress and urged an increase in manpower and materials deployment.
Throughout his visits, Engr. Umahi emphasised the FG “Renewed Hope Agenda” which prioritises infrastructure development as a driver of economic growth.
He instructed Federal Controllers of Works to ensure the commissioning of at least four completed projects each between February and May 2025.
“There is no room for delays”, the Minister stated firmly. “Contractors failing to meet their obligations will face a 14-day termination notice. The Ministry will enforce strict measures to ensure timely delivery.”
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Umahi reassured Nigerians of President Bola Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to completing inherited projects and the four new legacy projects initiated under his administration.
The Minister called for greater collaboration among stakeholders, urging contractors to honour their commitments and deliver projects that meet specifications and deadlines.
He reiterated the Ministry of Works is steadfast in its efforts to improve Nigeria’s road infrastructure, fostering connectivity and driving socio-economic development across the nation.
