Senator Dave Umahi, Nigeria’s Minister of Works, has emphasized the necessity for public accountability in the execution of road projects under the current administration. At a town hall meeting in Akure, he discussed the alignment of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway‘s 63-kilometer segment through Ondo State, urging stakeholders to hold him responsible for any shortcomings.
Key Points from Umahi’s Address
- Inherited Projects and Financial Challenges: Umahi disclosed that President Bola Tinubu‘s administration has inherited 20,604 unfinished road projects across Nigeria, valued at approximately N13 trillion as of May 29, 2023. He highlighted that contractors are owed about N1.6 trillion for these projects, with some spanning 20 years or more.
- Commitment to Completion: He pledged to accept full responsibility if these projects are not completed within 14 months. Umahi stressed the urgency of completing ongoing projects and noted that his ministry has already terminated over ten major contracts due to non-performance, indicating a readiness to terminate more if necessary.
- Focus on Financial Accountability: Umahi emphasized that contractors awaiting mobilization payments must not delay construction, asserting that financial documentation should precede any mobilization efforts.
- Lagos-Calabar Highway Project: Concerning the Ondo segment of the highway, Umahi announced that project design would be finalized by November, with construction expected to begin shortly thereafter. He framed road construction as an investment in Nigeria’s infrastructure.
Support from Local Leaders
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State commended President Tinubu for prioritizing legacy projects that would benefit the state’s economy. He assured Umahi of the state government’s full cooperation in the project.
Mr. Akin Alabi, Chairman of the House Committee on Works, underscored the importance of transparency and accountability in road project management, insisting that contractors should not receive payments unless they are actively on-site.
Mr. Banji Okunomo, representing riverine communities, expressed gratitude for the road project’s inclusion in their area. He called for timely completion and promised local support to facilitate the construction.
Conclusion
Umahi’s appeal for accountability underscores the critical need for transparency in Nigeria’s infrastructure development. By prioritizing the timely completion of road projects and stressing contractor accountability, the current administration aims to bolster the nation’s road network and drive economic growth.
