The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, has expressed satisfaction with the quality and pace of work on the ongoing reconstruction and expansion of the 43.65-kilometre Mararaba–Keffi Road, as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to deliver critical infrastructure projects across the country.
Umahi made the remarks during an inspection tour of ongoing Federal Government road projects in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Nasarawa State.
Speaking after inspecting the Mararaba–Keffi (Keffi-bound) Road being executed by China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) Ltd., the Minister commended the contractor for maintaining a high standard of work.
He also praised Messrs JRB Construction Company for the quality of work on the Full Emergency Rehabilitation of the Mararaba–Keffi (Abuja-bound) Road, expressing confidence that the project would be completed ahead of its March 1, 2028 deadline.
The project includes ancillary works such as the installation of solar-powered street lighting.
“This is highly commendable. The quality of work is evident, and I encourage you to sustain this standard through to completion,” Umahi told the contractor.
The Minister reiterated the Federal Government’s determination to end the era of abandoned and poorly executed infrastructure projects, stressing the importance of strict compliance with project specifications and contractual obligations.
According to him, contractors should promptly communicate any operational challenges to the Ministry, assuring them of the Federal Government’s commitment to meeting its obligations, including timely payments.
"If you encounter any difficulty, inform us immediately. The Federal Government remains committed to meeting its obligations, including timely payments. However, quality must never be compromised,” he said.
Umahi further directed contractors to complete all outstanding sections of the roads before embarking on additional asphalt works, noting that unfinished stretches have contributed to delays and setbacks on several projects nationwide.
He emphasized that the Ministry’s priority remains the delivery of durable, safe and fully serviced infrastructure capable of serving Nigerians for decades.
During the inspection, the Minister also visited Section II of the Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano Road project being handled by Messrs Infiouest International Ltd. He disclosed that the outstanding works on the section are scheduled for completion by November 12, 2026.
Also speaking during the inspection tour, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Sen. Allwell Onyesoh, Chairman of the House Committee on Works, Hon. Akin Alabi, and the member representing Akwanga/Wamba/Nasarawa Eggon Federal Constituency, Hon. Jeremiah Sa’idu, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for accelerating infrastructure development across the country.
The lawmakers described the road projects as strategic investments that would stimulate economic growth, improve connectivity, facilitate trade and commerce, and strengthen national integration. They pledged continued legislative support and oversight to ensure successful project delivery.
The Federal Controller of Works in the FCT, Engr. Mohammed Usman, highlighted the commitment demonstrated in the execution of the projects, commending Umahi’s hands-on leadership and the contractors’ adherence to quality standards.
Similarly, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (North Central Zone), Dr. Abiodun Essiet, praised President Tinubu’s sustained investment in critical infrastructure and people-centred programmes aimed at improving livelihoods and easing transportation challenges.
In his remarks, the Managing Director of JRB Construction Company, Mr. Jamilu Ogunbola, said the company’s role in the Abuja–Keffi Road project reflects the growing capacity of indigenous construction firms to execute complex infrastructure projects in line with global standards and best practices.
The inspection tour, according to the Ministry of Works, underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring the timely completion of critical road projects under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, with infrastructure development serving as a key driver of economic transformation, national cohesion and improved quality of life for Nigerians.