The Minister of Works, Engr. Nweze David Umahi, has delivered a stern warning to contractors handling critical federal road projects, emphasizing the urgent need for quality, speed, and accountability. During an extensive site inspection on January 8, 2025, Engr. Umahi expressed dissatisfaction with the slow pace of work on several projects, including the East-West Road, Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway, and the Bodo-Bonny Road.
At the East-West Road Section III (Eleme Junction – Onne Junction), the Minister ordered Messrs Reynolds Construction Company (RCC) to allocate additional resources immediately. Engr. Umahi warned that failure to comply would result in the re-scoping and potential re-award of the contract. He set a clear deadline for the project to be completed by April 2025, underscoring his commitment to delivering results.
The Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway, another major project, also came under scrutiny. At Section III (Umuahia – Aba), the Minister commended Messrs Arab Contractors (Nig.) Ltd. for their workmanship but instructed them to deploy teams to two additional sites to accelerate progress. For Section IV (Aba – Port Harcourt), managed by Messrs China Civil Engineering Construction Company (CCECC), he expressed frustration over delays. Despite ₦21 billion allocated to the project last year, only ₦7 billion had been accessed. Engr. Umahi issued a formal warning, making it clear that termination of the contract looms if improvements are not evident soon.
The inspection extended to the Bodo-Bonny Road, a vital project for the South-South zone featuring 17 bridges, reinforced concrete pavement, and a two-lane road with hard shoulders. Messrs Julius Berger (Nig.) Plc was directed to enhance their deployment of resources immediately, even after working through the holiday season. Engr. Umahi stressed that this project is a cornerstone for regional development and must not face further delays.
Across all project sites, the Minister emphasized strict adherence to timelines. “Deadlines are not negotiable. Contractors must meet their obligations to ensure the Federal Government’s infrastructure agenda is realized,” he stated. Engr. Umahi reiterated the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes improved connectivity and economic growth through enhanced infrastructure.
Read also: Kano governor loses aide 48hrs after swearing-in
To demonstrate accountability, Engr. Umahi mandated Federal Controllers of Works to ensure at least four projects in their jurisdictions are ready for commissioning between February and May 2025. “There will be no tolerance for delays. Any contractor failing to meet expectations will receive a 14-day termination notice,” he declared, signaling the Ministry’s readiness to enforce consequences for underperformance.
Engr. Umahi assured Nigerians that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains fully committed to completing legacy and inherited projects. He acknowledged delays caused by contractors but vowed to implement stricter measures to ensure deadlines are met this year. “The President’s vision for rapid national growth and development hinges on the timely delivery of these projects. We will not allow government funds to be misused,” he affirmed.
The Minister called on all stakeholders, including contractors, government officials, and the public, to collaborate for the success of these critical projects. He concluded with a strong message of accountability, insisting that only contractors who deliver results will continue to benefit from government contracts.
