The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has reiterated his warning to terminate 10 federal road contracts in Niger State due to persistent delays by contractors.
During a stakeholder meeting held at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja, Umahi expressed dissatisfaction with the contractors’ performance despite receiving advance payments. He emphasized the administration’s commitment to speed, quality, and value for money.
The meeting, chaired by Umahi, included Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago, Minister of State for Works Bello Goronyo, state lawmakers, and Senate Committee Chairman on Finance Mohammed Sani, among others.
According to a statement by the minister’s media adviser, Orji Uchenna, Umahi noted the contractors’ failure to deliver on projects has caused severe hardship for road users. He issued an ultimatum for contractors to resume work immediately or face termination.
Among the projects under scrutiny are:
Agaje-Katcha-Baro Road (52 km) by GR Building and Construction Nig. Ltd.
Dualization of Suleja–Lambata–Minna Road (Phases I & II) by Salini Nigeria Ltd.
Jebba–Mokwa–Bokani Junction Road (Sections I & II) by CGC Nig. Ltd.
Reconstruction of Bida–Lapai–Lambatta Road by CGC Nig. Ltd.
Rehabilitation of Minna–Zungeru–Tegina–Kontagora Road by Gilmor Engineering Nig. Ltd.
Governor Bago called for the revocation of some contracts, citing poor performance and substandard work. The Ministry of Works has directed a review committee to assess accounts and issue warnings where necessary.
Umahi also stressed the importance of adherence to the administration’s policy of accountability and swift project delivery, warning that contracts with unresolved delays would be reassigned to competent contractors.
The federal government will review progress during a follow-up meeting in January 2025.
