he federal government has given contractors handling the Abuja–Kaduna–Kano and Abuja–Lokoja highways strict deadlines to complete works by 2026.
It warned that errant contractors would face probe and contract termination.
Minister of Works Engr. Nweze David Umahi said the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) would be brought in to investigate contractors who, despite receiving mobilisation payments, have made little headway on the projects.
He told reporters that some contractors had delivered less than 20 per cent of the work two years after award, and that one contractor had completed just three kilometres out of a 400‑kilometre scope within the same period.
Umahi spoke during an inspection of the projects at Obajana Junction in Kogi State.
He was accompanied by the Minister of State for Works, Bello Mohammad Goronyo; the Director of Highways, Construction and Rehabilitation, Clement Ogbuagu; and senior ministry officials.
Abuja–Kaduna–Kano
Umahi said the 262‑kilometre Abuja–Kaduna–Kano corridor must be completed within 14 months, with sections 1 and 3 and section 2 scheduled for completion by June 2026.
Sections 1 and 3 total 118 kilometres and were awarded at N252 billion. Section 2 — described as about 72 kilometres carried out as two lanes (144 lane‑kilometres) — carries a contract value of N507 billion; 15 kilometres of that section will be flexible asphalt pavement, with the remainder reinforced concrete.
Abuja–Lokoja road project, the minister said covers some 230 kilometres, being upgraded to dual carriageway specifications (described by the ministry as 460 lane‑kilometres), and has been divided among several contractors.
He expressed dissatisfaction with progress on Section 3 — a 53‑kilometre stretch awarded at N56 billion to Trucrete Solutions Limited — praising the quality of work but condemning its slow pace.
Umahi ordered the contractor to accelerate work or face replacement, insisting the section must be commissioned in April next year.
Umahi announced a shift in the ministry’s payment practice: contractors will be paid strictly against milestone completion rather than on the basis of certificates alone.
He warned that contracts would be revoked and reallocated to firms that can meet federal targets.
The minister acknowledged pressures from rising construction costs — noting that a bag of cement is now about N9,500 — but said cost increases did not excuse poor mobilisation or chronic underperformance.
“The Tinubu administration is committed to delivering durable road infrastructure built to modern engineering standards,” Umahi said.
He added that the roads are being designed for longevity and sustainability and should “stand the test of time, lasting for as many as 100 years.”
According to him, improved road connectivity will boost economic growth and enhance security across northern Nigeria.
While commending some firms for steady progress, Umahi urged lagging contractors to increase manpower and equipment on site and stressed the need for proper site supervision to achieve the set timelines.
(vitalnewsngr.com)
