The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has expressed strong disappointment and concern over the destruction of a section of the newly rehabilitated Kano-Maiduguri highway due to flooding. In a statement, Umahi described the situation as unfortunate, highlighting that completed roads in Nigeria often do not last five years.
Umahi has dispatched a technical team from the ministry to evaluate the damage and find a lasting solution to the issue. He also announced the termination of section 1 of the Kano-Maiduguri road project, which was awarded to Dantata & Sawoe Ltd in 2007, due to the time elapsed.
The minister emphasized the need to address the issue of road durability, citing the current one-year liability period for contractors as inadequate. He plans to review the liability period for all federal government projects to ensure value for money and durability.
During a performance review meeting with contractors handling road projects under the Road Infrastructure Development and Refurbishment Investment Tax Credit Scheme, Umahi commended progress made so far and urged contractors to complete awarded projects promptly. He emphasized the importance of meeting milestones and adhering to timetables for project completion.
Umahi also highlighted the significance of the road projects, noting that they are critical to the nation’s economic corridors. He encouraged contractors to work diligently to complete the projects, ensuring that they meet the required standards.
The destruction of the Kano-Maiduguri highway has raised concerns about the quality of road construction in Nigeria and the need for more durable infrastructure. The minister’s actions aim to address these concerns and ensure that road projects are completed to last.
