The Federal Government has pledged to engage only competent contractors in road projects across the country in a bid to reduce delays in project completion. This commitment was announced by the Minister of Works, David Umahi, following a meeting with President Bola Tinubu in Abuja.
Minister Umahi expressed concern over some contractors taking on multiple road projects without the necessary equipment and expertise to handle them, resulting in significant delays and, at times, project abandonment. He emphasized the need to address this issue to fulfill the administration’s vision under President Tinubu.
“The delay in contractor completion has been identified as the propensity of contractors to take on several road projects that they do not have the equipment to tackle. This has led to delays and sometimes abandonment of projects nationwide. This needs to change so that the renewed hope of the Tinubu-led administration can reach and benefit the people,” Minister Umahi stated.
In addition to addressing contractor competence, the President approved contracts for various critical road projects across the country, including the rehabilitation of the Benin-Sapele road, the Third Mainland Bridge, and the East-West road, among others.
Umahi also clarified the government’s stance on the use of asphalt in road construction. Contractors are allowed to use asphalt, provided they meet specific conditions to ensure the quality and durability of road infrastructure.
“The ministry is providing an alternative to asphalt by introducing the use of concrete in road constructions. But if any contractor wishes to continue with asphalt, they must meet the conditions. The conditions include providing guarantees that the asphalt road will not fail within at least 15 years, despite the 20-year design shelf life, as well as securing insurance from a reputable company,” the minister explained.
Umahi highlighted the benefits of using concrete in road construction, emphasizing its durability and the potential for job creation, including the establishment of cement factories. He encouraged the cooperation of all stakeholders in the government’s reform efforts to boost economic prosperity and stressed that no group or individuals’ actions would deter the administration’s determination to bring positive change.
The Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring competent contractors and promoting alternative road construction methods reflects its dedication to enhancing infrastructure development and driving economic growth across Nigeria.