Amanze Chinonye
Nigeria’s Minister of Works, David Umahi, has defended the ₦7.5 billion per-kilometre cost of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, while warning that the Federal Government will no longer tolerate contractors who deliver substandard work or delay critical infrastructure projects.
Speaking during an inspection tour of federal road projects in Nasarawa State, Umahi said the Tinubu administration remains committed to ensuring transparency, quality, and durability in all ongoing highway projects across the country.
“We cannot continue to tolerate uncooperative contractors who delay projects and ignore directives,” the minister declared during the inspection. “If by the 15th of December you do not finish the scope of work, I will terminate the whole contract. This is about discipline, quality, and integrity.”
Mararaba–Keffi Carriageway and Keffi Flyover
Umahi, accompanied by the Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, and senior ministry officials, expressed concern over the slow pace of work on the Mararaba–Keffi Dual Carriageway, being handled by China Harbour Engineering Company.
He announced that the ministry would revoke the Abuja-bound carriageway contract and reassign it to a local contractor with a proven record of efficiency.
The project, which has caused persistent gridlock and hardship for commuters, is now set for an accelerated completion schedule under new supervision.
Umahi explained that the ministry had earlier reviewed the project’s method statement to prevent long-term damage to the subgrade.
“We changed the design to include 20 cm of concrete on the inner shoulder and reinforced the stone base with 3.5% cement content,” he said. “The sections already completed are excellent and will last for a minimum of 50 years.”
During a stop at the Keffi Flyover, recently damaged by a truck accident, Umahi confirmed that President Bola Tinubu had promptly approved ₦1.5 billion for emergency repairs.
“They are recasting the entire slab, not just the affected part, and doing so at a very conservative cost,” he noted.
The minister also inspected the Keffi–Nasarawan Toto–Abaji Road, whose original ₦73 billion contract has been re-scoped and extended to 137 kilometres, reaching Abaji town in the FCT, following presidential approval under a special funding arrangement. The project is seen as vital to the region’s economy and to the newly established lithium factory, one of the largest in Africa.
Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule, who joined the inspection, commended President Tinubu and Umahi for their hands-on oversight and timely interventions. He described the Keffi–Abaji route as “a lifeline for trade, mobility, and regional integration.”
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Defending the Lagos–Calabar Highway
Umahi also addressed renewed criticism surrounding the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, particularly the ₦7.5 billion per-kilometre cost for the 47.47-kilometre first section, valued at ₦1.067 trillion.
He explained that the cost variation reflects engineering complexity, terrain, and additional features such as solar lighting, flyovers, and coastal protection systems.
“Every section of the highway has unique challenges bridges, coastal soil conditions, drainages, and elevation,” he said. “Those who question the figures should come to the field and see the level of engineering involved.”
His remarks came after Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and broadcaster Rufai Oseni criticised the Federal Government’s cost transparency. Umahi responded by challenging Makinde to a public debate, saying the ministry’s engineering standards could be compared against any state’s record.
“I am ready for a debate, anywhere, anytime,” he said. “Governor Makinde should show evidence of his own road construction costs and compare them with our specifications.”
Commitment to Quality and Accountability
Minister of State Bello Goronyo echoed Umahi’s stance, warning contractors to adhere strictly to specifications and timelines.
“The Ministry will not compromise on quality and accountability. Every contractor must deliver according to global standards,” Goronyo said.
The Director of Highways, Construction and Rehabilitation, Engr. Clement Ogbuagu, confirmed that about 50% of the Mararaba–Keffi project has been completed, with the first phase expected to be delivered by December 15, 2025.
Umahi reaffirmed that all ongoing federal road projects will now adopt the new engineering method statement complete milling of old pavement, reinforcement of subgrade with stone base and cement, 20 cm concrete shoulders, and adequate drainage and slope control to guarantee a minimum 50-year lifespan.
“No contractor, no matter how connected, will be allowed to compromise on quality,” Umahi stressed. “Mr. President has done his part by approving funding; it is now our duty to ensure delivery.”
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
