Umahi Threatens Action Against Slow Contractors On Abuja Lokoja Road

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has warned contractors handling sections of the Abuja–Lokoja highway that they risk being reported to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission for failing to deliver on time.

The minister issued the warning during an inspection visit that covered the stretch from Abuja to Obajana Junction.

The Abuja–Lokoja road is about 460 kilometres long, with 230 kilometres already under federal intervention. Umahi explained that the remaining 200 kilometres are in a deplorable state, adding that the slow pace of work has left road users in distress. The project was split into several sections and awarded to different firms in 2023, but progress has been far below expectations.

During his visit, Umahi noted that one contractor had managed only three kilometres out of 400 in two years, a performance he described as unacceptable. He said the ministry had already summoned the companies for a review and would not hesitate to recover public funds if they fail to meet new deadlines.

The contractors currently engaged on the road include JRB Construction, which was awarded 22 kilometres for ₦20 billion and has completed 15 kilometres. Guild Construction is handling 53 kilometres for ₦56 billion and switched the project to reinforced concrete, but the work is moving slowly. Trucrete is in charge of 47 kilometres worth about ₦90 billion, taken over from a previous contractor, with quality considered satisfactory but the delivery pace still lagging. Smaller firms, such as Soji, have recorded poor performance.

Umahi said President Bola Tinubu inherited major road challenges across the country, describing the state of many highways as overwhelming. He explained that while not all projects can be completed within a short time, the government is determined to push contractors to speed up delivery.

The minister added that while some companies are performing well in terms of quality, the delay in execution is no longer acceptable. He stressed that both contractors and ministry staff supervising the projects would now be held accountable if targets are not met.