THE Federal Government of Nigeria has committed to disbursing a substantial sum of N280 billion to Julius Berger Nigeria Plc for the expedited completion of a critical segment of the Abuja-Kano Highway. This decision was announced by the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, as part of a broader strategy to address the country’s significant infrastructure needs, particularly in road construction and rehabilitation.
In a bid to ensure the timely completion of the 82-kilometer segment of the Abuja-Kano Highway, the government has devised a funding plan that will see N20 billion allocated each month to Julius Berger over the next 14 months. This targeted financial injection is aimed at fast-tracking the construction process, which has been hampered by various challenges, including inadequate funding and price differentials.
During a high-level meeting with representatives of Julius Berger, Minister Umahi expressed deep concern over the financial constraints that have plagued the completion of key road projects. He emphasized the urgent need for a focused and disciplined approach to managing the available resources to achieve tangible results.
The minister’s meeting with Julius Berger was part of a comprehensive review of ongoing road contracts across the country. The review process is designed to assess the performance of contractors and make critical decisions regarding funding and project milestones. The goal is to ensure that all significant road projects, particularly those inherited by the current administration, are completed within the stipulated timelines.
A statement released by the media team of Minister Orji Uchenna Orji highlighted the scope of the review, which includes several key infrastructure projects. These projects include the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano highway, the Lagos-Ibadan expressway (currently in its second phase), the Second Niger Bridge, the Third Mainland Bridge, and the Iddo and Carter Bridges.
Minister Umahi reiterated that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) has issued directives aimed at addressing the delays affecting inherited and new projects. These delays are primarily due to issues related to price fluctuations and insufficient funding. In response, the Federal Ministry of Works has initiated decisive discussions with major construction companies, including Julius Berger, to appraise their performance and agree on a roadmap for the completion of all awarded projects.
The minister praised Julius Berger for the quality of work delivered on the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Road but emphasized the need for the contractor to adopt a more streamlined approach. He directed that the company focus on completing one carriageway at a time, ensuring that each segment is fully developed before moving on to the next.
In an effort to alleviate the ongoing hardship faced by road users, the minister instructed Julius Berger to, within three weeks, fill the two carriageways with stone base and level them. This interim measure is expected to provide some relief to commuters while the full construction is being completed.
Minister Umahi also announced that the project execution would be divided into four sections, each with specific timelines and funding allocations. The government’s commitment to releasing N20 billion each month to Julius Berger is seen as a critical step in ensuring that the project remains on track and is completed within the agreed 14-month timeframe.
This decisive action by the Federal Government aligns with the Renewed Hope administration’s broader agenda to improve the nation’s infrastructure and mitigate the economic challenges currently facing the country. By prioritizing the completion of key road projects, the government aims to enhance connectivity, boost economic activities, and improve the overall quality of life for Nigerians.
As the government continues to engage with contractors and monitor progress, road users can expect to see significant improvements in the coming months. The Abuja-Kano Highway, once completed, will stand as a testament to the administration’s commitment to infrastructure development and economic revitalization.
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