In a bid to ensure timely completion of emergency road projects, the Federal Government has issued a stern warning to 37 contractors handling various projects across 12 states. Minister of Works, Engr David Umahi, has given the contractors a three-month ultimatum to deliver as required by the Standard Conditions of Contract or face contract termination.
The affected contractors, who have achieved little or no milestones despite being paid, were accused of subjecting road users to suffering and hindering the government’s efforts to fix the country’s road infrastructure. The Minister emphasized that no excuses, including security challenges or lack of mobilization funds, will be tolerated.
To ensure proper supervision and monitoring of projects, the Minister has ordered Federal Controllers of Works to be abreast with contract details, including the amount, date of award, timeline, review date, extension of time, and argumentation granted. They are also tasked with ensuring that contractors are on site and working as required.
The Renewed Hope emergency road projects were appropriated in the 2023 Supplementary Budget to provide immediate intervention on critical federal roads nationwide. With the government’s commitment to delivering infrastructure projects, defaulting contractors risk being blacklisted and facing contract termination if they fail to meet the deadline.
