The Federal Government has declared a state of emergency on the construction of the Suleja-Minna road. This announcement was made by the Minister of Works, David Umahi, during a recent inspection of the road.
Umahi highlighted that the road project was initially awarded to Salini Nigeria Limited, but the work was either poorly executed or abandoned. Efforts to have the contractor rectify the situation over the past 18 months have been unsuccessful.
He noted that the road’s condition has significantly delayed travel time from an hour and a half to seven hours, contributing to accidents and fatalities. Following concerns raised by Niger Governor Mohammed Bago, President Bola Tinubu directed the ministry to take immediate action. Umahi emphasized the urgency, stating that if contractors do not mobilize promptly, their contracts will be terminated.
Umahi confirmed that the contract with Salini has been irrevocably terminated due to unsatisfactory work. He indicated that the ministry would seek the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) help to recover funds if necessary.
Two contractors have been appointed to work on the road project. CCCC International Engineering Nigeria Ltd is handling part of the project, with a 10-day deadline to mobilize for the critical seven-kilometer stretch.
The Suleja-Minna road spans approximately 103 kilometers and is dualized, meaning about 206 kilometers in total. The governor has already completed about 60 kilometers as part of an urban renewal agenda.
This emergency declaration reflects the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure and ensuring accountability in public contract
