Umahi Expresses Satisfaction with Quality, Progress of 43.65km Mararaba–Keffi Road Reconstruction
By Core Reporters
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.
Umahi made the remarks during an inspection tour of Federal Government road projects in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Nasarawa State. The Mararaba–Keffi (Keffi-bound) carriageway is being executed by China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) Ltd.
During the inspection, the minister also commended Messrs JRB Construction Company for the quality of work on the Full Emergency Rehabilitation of the Mararaba–Keffi (Abuja-bound) Road. He expressed confidence that the project would be completed ahead of its scheduled March 1, 2028 deadline, including ancillary components such as 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 reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to ending the era of abandoned and poorly executed infrastructure projects that have hindered national development.
He stressed the need for contractors to strictly adhere to approved specifications, contractual obligations and directives from the Ministry, while maintaining effective communication regarding operational challenges.
“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 prioritise the completion of all outstanding sections of the road before commencing additional asphalt works.
He noted that several projects nationwide had experienced setbacks due to unfinished stretches and reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to delivering durable, safe and fully serviced infrastructure capable of serving Nigerians for decades.
The minister also inspected Section II of the Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano Road project being handled by Messrs Infiouest International Ltd. According to him, outstanding works on the project are expected to be completed by November 12, 2026.
Speaking during the inspection tour, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Senator Allwell Onyesoh, and the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Works, Hon. Akin Alabi, alongside the member representing Akwanga/Wamba/Nasarawa Eggon Federal Constituency, Hon. Jeremiah Sa’idu, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the renewed momentum in infrastructure development across the country.
They described the ongoing road projects as strategic investments capable of stimulating economic growth, improving connectivity, facilitating trade and commerce, and strengthening national integration.
The lawmakers also 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 executing the projects. He praised the minister’s hands-on leadership and regular supervision, as well as the contractors’ adherence to quality standards and steady project progress.
Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (North Central), Dr. Abiodun Essiet, lauded President Tinubu’s commitment to improving the welfare of Nigerians through sustained investments in critical infrastructure, agricultural empowerment programmes and other people-centred initiatives aimed at promoting economic prosperity and easing transportation challenges.
In his remarks, the Managing Director of JRB Construction Company, Mr. Jamilu Ogunbola, said the company’s involvement in the Abuja–Keffi Road project reflects the growing capacity of indigenous construction firms to successfully execute complex infrastructure projects in line with international standards and best practices.
The inspection tour underscores the Federal Government’s determination to ensure the timely completion and delivery of critical road infrastructure projects nationwide in line with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Works reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining the current pace of infrastructure development as a catalyst for economic transformation, national cohesion and improved quality of life for Nigerians.
