The minister affirmed that despite the coalition of road contractors opposing the policy, the president has instructed him to withstand any attempts at manipulation and to prioritize the welfare of Nigerians…CONTINUE READING....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

He revealed this while speaking to State House Correspondents after a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at Aso Rock Villa, Abuja. According to him, some road contractors, with the support of what he referred to as “internal adversaries,” have united to obstruct the policy.

Umahi also noted that some contractors have embraced the policy, and major cement producers have agreed to offer discounted prices to government road construction projects.

He cautioned contractors against engaging in the deceptive practice of securing approximately 20 projects but deploying as few as two units of equipment to the construction site.

Umahi stated, “There are individuals within the system who are also resisting me, individuals who are profiting from the current system, and that is the primary challenge we face, and I cannot ignore it.

I will identify and report those individuals to ICPC to address them because no one should hold this country hostage. So I am giving them one last opportunity to align with us so that we can assist Mr. President in reshaping the nation.”

Furthermore, he mentioned that a 14-day notice would be provided in line with the contracts they have signed. He explained that they have had numerous meetings with contractors and have established the design and cost of concrete road construction from the ground up, including discounts from major cement manufacturers like Dangote and BUA for contractors working on concrete road pavements. Many contractors have already embraced this approach.

However, not all contractors are part of this alliance, as many have signed addendums and are actively involved in road pavement projects. Those who continue to resist will ultimately be at a loss, as they will witness the successful completion of these projects.