The Federal Government has issued a stern warning to contractors handling key road projects in the Southeast and South-South regions, threatening to terminate contracts for those not meeting deadline
the announcement follows concerns raised by Works Minister Dave Umahi after inspecting several major road projects in the regions.
Umahi highlighted slow progress on projects like Section III of the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway and the Aba-Port Harcourt Highway, both critical to the region’s infrastructure development.
He expressed particular dissatisfaction with contractors such as CCECC and Arab Contractors Nig.Ltd., urging them to accelerate their work or face termination.
During the inspection, Umahi directed Federal Controllers of Works to compile lists of completed projects for inauguration between February and May.
He also addressed concerns about abandoned roads, assuring that President Bola Tinubu’s administration remains committed to completing these legacy projects.
Umahi’s directive emphasized strict adherence to timelines.
He warned that any delays beyond the specified periods April and May 2025 would lead to a 14-day notice for termination.
“The expectation is that every contractor fulfills their obligations,” he stated, stressing that there is “no room for further delays.”
The minister also urged contractors to deploy more personnel, materials, and equipment to speed up progress, particularly on projects like the Bodo-Bonny Road, which is crucial for regional connectivity.
Contractors who fail to meet the end-of-January deadlines for specific roadworks will face contract revocation.
In response to ongoing delays, the Petroleum Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) condemned the slow pace of work on the East-West Road, calling for urgent action to ensure timely delivery to prevent accidents and disruptions in petroleum distribution.
The government’s intensified oversight signals a renewed commitment to infrastructural development across Nigeria.,
