Umahi Commends Progress on Mararaba–Keffi Road Projects, Reaffirms Commitment to Quality Infrastructure
The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has expressed satisfaction with the quality and pace of work on the reconstruction and expansion of the 43.65-kilometre Mararaba–Keffi Road during an inspection of ongoing Federal Government road projects in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Nasarawa State.
The project, which covers the Keffi-bound carriageway, is being executed by China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) Ltd.
During the inspection, the minister also commended JRB Construction Company for the quality of work being delivered on the Full Emergency Rehabilitation of the Abuja-bound section of the Mararaba–Keffi Road.
Umahi expressed confidence that the rehabilitation project would be completed ahead of its March 1, 2028 deadline, including ancillary components such as the installation of solar-powered streetlights.
“This is highly commendable. The quality of work is evident, and I encourage you to sustain this standard through to completion,” the minister told the contractor.
He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s determination to end the era of abandoned and substandard infrastructure projects, stressing the need for contractors to strictly adhere to approved specifications, contractual obligations and directives from the Ministry.
The minister urged contractors to promptly communicate operational challenges to the government, 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 prioritise the completion of outstanding sections of the roads before commencing additional asphalt works, noting that incomplete stretches have contributed to delays and setbacks on several projects nationwide.
According to him, the Ministry’s priority remains the delivery of durable, safe and fully serviced road infrastructure capable of serving Nigerians for decades.
The minister also inspected Section II of the Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano Road being handled by Infiouest International Ltd, noting that 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, Allwell Onyesoh, and the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Works, Akin Alabi, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the renewed momentum in infrastructure development across the country.
They described the ongoing projects as strategic investments capable of boosting economic growth, improving connectivity, facilitating trade and enhancing national integration.
Also speaking, Jeremiah Sa’idu, who represents Akwanga/Wamba/Nasarawa Eggon Federal Constituency, pledged continued legislative support and oversight to ensure the successful delivery of the projects.
The Federal Controller of Works in the FCT, Mohammed Usman, highlighted the commitment demonstrated in the execution of the projects and praised the minister’s hands-on leadership and regular supervision.
Similarly, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (North Central), Abiodun Essiet, lauded the administration’s investments in critical infrastructure and other programmes aimed at improving the welfare of Nigerians.
In his remarks, the Managing Director of JRB Construction Company, Jamilu Ogunbola, said the company’s role in the Abuja–Keffi Road project demonstrates the growing capacity of indigenous construction firms to deliver complex infrastructure projects in line with global standards and best practices.
The inspection tour underscores the Federal Government’s resolve to ensure the timely completion of critical road projects nationwide as part of the Renewed Hope Agenda, while sustaining infrastructure development as a driver of economic growth, national cohesion and improved quality of life for Nigerians.
Umahi Commends Progress on Mararaba–Keffi Road Projects, Reaffirms Commitment to Quality Infrastructure