Umahi Reads Riot Act, Says Only Competent Contractors Will Handle Road Projects

By Akinwale Kasali

After a closed door meeting with President Bola Tinubu, Minister of Works, Dave Umahi,  has disclosed that only competent contractors will subsequently be engaged in handling road projects across the country to reduce  delay in completion.

Umahi revealed that some contractors have been identified with collecting several road projects at once without the capacity to handle such projects.

“The delay of 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,’’ he said.

He added that  President Tinubu also approved the contract for various roads across the country that needed urgent attention, including the Benin-Sapele, Third Mainland bridge rehabilitation, and the East-West road, among others.

On the use of asphalt, the Minister said that contractors are allowed to use it with certain conditions attached so as to ensure quality jobs.

“The Ministry is only providing an alternative to asphalt by introducing the use of concrete in road constructions. But if any contractor wishes to continue with the asphalt, then he must meet the conditions.

“The conditions are that you will guarantee Nigerians that when you finish this asphalt road job, you are very sure it will not fail within at least 15 years. The design shelf life is 20 years, but assure us in writing from a reputable insurance company and from their own company that this road will not fail within 15 years.

“So we are saying that concrete is very friendly with water, and so we want you contractors to have an alternative. There is a catalyst in the use of concrete pavement. It will create jobs for our people. Everything about the construction is local.

“10 manufacturers of cement have indicated an interest in building cement factories. That is good for our economy. It will reduce pressure on the Naira. The road is going to be much more durable,’’ he said.

Umahi called for the cooperation of all stakeholders to the various reforms by the administration to create a new economic prosperity for Nigerians, adding ”no gang up by anybody or group” will deter this determination.