The Minister of Works, Sen. Engr. David Umahi, has directed Federal Controllers of Works across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to intensify supervision of federal road and bridge projects and improve communication with Nigerians on ongoing infrastructure interventions.
Umahi gave the directive during a strategic meeting with the Federal Controllers at the headquarters of the Federal Ministry of Works.
He urged the controllers to take greater ownership of projects under their jurisdiction and strengthen collaboration with state governments, contractors, traditional institutions, host communities, stakeholders and the media, a statement by Mohammed A. Ahmed, Director, Information and Public Relations, said on Wednesday.
The minister said effective project delivery must be complemented by effective communication, stressing that Nigerians should have access to clear and accurate information on the location, scope, implementation status and expected benefits of federal infrastructure projects.
He also directed the controllers to maintain a strong presence at project sites, identify construction challenges early and ensure that contractors comply with approved specifications, quality standards and contractual obligations.
“Go hard on the contractors. Go straight to the site, not sit in the office. The sites need your extra attention to ensure quality and timely delivery,” Umahi told the officials.
The minister further instructed the controllers to make proper use of legitimate provisions in the Bill of Quantities and contingencies where necessary adjustments are required to facilitate project delivery.
He, however, warned against using such provisions to create unnecessary work or additional expenditure, insisting that every adjustment must be technically justified, properly documented and approved.
Umahi also called for greater professional judgement and timely decision-making, noting that delays in resolving legitimate project challenges could increase costs, prolong construction periods and worsen the difficulties faced by road users.
He promised continued capacity building for technical personnel, particularly those involved in project monitoring and evaluation, to ensure that officers remain abreast of international construction practices, contract administration and project management procedures.
The minister also directed the controllers to develop robust infrastructure communication plans in their respective jurisdictions through project signages, media engagements, documentaries, radio and television jingles, project tours and community-level communication.
He stressed that the interests of road users and host communities must remain central to the ministry’s activities, adding that the ultimate measure of successful infrastructure delivery was its impact on mobility, economic activities and the quality of life of Nigerians.
“When you put the people first, you are putting God first,” Umahi said, urging the controllers to discharge their responsibilities with integrity, diligence and compassion.
The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mr. Rafiu Adeladan, commended Umahi for his commitment to improving infrastructure delivery and urged the Federal Controllers to remain dedicated to their responsibilities.
The meeting, which was attended by the six Zonal and Highways Coordinating Directors, also featured an interactive session on project supervision, delivery, community engagement and communication strategies.
Umahi further disclosed that Zonal Directors and other key directors would hold a follow-up meeting to address operational details and implementation modalities.