David Umahi, the Minister of Works, has informed contractors responsible for federal road projects across Nigeria that the administration led by President Ahmed Tinubu has set aside N431 billion for disbursement to them.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
This announcement was made during a meeting held in the minister’s office yesterday, where he also revealed a new requirement for contractors to enter into performance contracts, ensuring that the constructed roads maintain their quality for a minimum of 10 years….CONTINUE READING
The statement, issued by the Ministry’s Director of Information and Public Relations, Mrs. Blessing Lere-Adams, elaborated on Umahi’s plans to prioritize dualized roads across the nation.
In the minister’s words, “Our purpose here today is to announce our commitment to addressing most of the dualized roads in the country. I want to remind you that the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) is funding 50% of the contract sum, with funding allocated up to 2025.
We have N431 billion of funds available for contractors to claim, but certificates are pending. If your project falls under Phase 1, make efforts to file your claims.
If your project involves augmentation, seek clarification from your Regional Director before I endorse the certificate. Every certificate I endorse holds me accountable, even after leaving office.”
The minister instructed contractors to stick to a single lane if their project progress is below 50%. Additionally, he introduced the concept of a Performance Bond, guaranteeing that all new projects would endure for at least 10 years.
Umahi cautioned contractors against offering excuses if their roads fail to meet the stipulated standards and encouraged them to reach out to the Ministry if any of their roads cannot last for a decade.
Umahi appealed for cooperation in ensuring the success of the concrete technology the administration was adopting, emphasizing its successful implementation in India and Singapore.
Beforehand, Engr. Umahi urged contractors and other stakeholders to align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President.
He stated that the administration inherited 18,000 kilometers of roads with a contract value of approximately N14.1 trillion, of which N4 trillion has been disbursed across these projects.
Some of these projects have maintained their quality for durations spanning 10 to 20 years. The Minister also pointed out that some contractors inflated the contract sums, resulting in delayed payments.
