Federal Government Enforces Strict Measures to Ensure Timely Completion of Mararaba–Keffi Expressway
The Federal Government has taken decisive action regarding the delayed Mararaba–Keffi Expressway project, removing the Controller of Works overseeing the project and giving the contractor, China Harbour Engineering Company, an ultimatum to complete the 43-kilometre road by February 28, 2026.
In a stern statement during a site inspection on Friday, Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, expressed frustration with the slow pace of work and the substandard supervision. He accused the ousted Controller of Works of issuing fraudulent certificates for incomplete or unexecuted jobs, which had resulted in unjustified payments for earlier palliative works.
Key Developments:
Controller Removed: The former Controller of Works has been dismissed and redeployed following allegations of fraud.
Contractor Under Scrutiny: China Harbour Engineering Company is now under pressure to submit a detailed work timetable and commit to meeting the February 28 deadline.
Immediate Actions Ordered: The Minister has directed the removal of hand-moulded caps on the road, the commencement of median concreting, and the installation of solar-powered streetlights.
Minister Umahi emphasized that the project’s completion was of paramount importance and that failure to meet the deadline would result in further action. He also instructed the Permanent Secretary to appoint a new Controller to oversee the remaining work.
‘No Tolerance for Delays or Negligence’
During the inspection, Umahi highlighted that repeated visits to the site had not led to the desired progress, blaming both the contractor and the Ministry of Works’ supervisory officials for the delays. He warned that negligence and failure to implement directives would no longer be tolerated.
“I am giving you until the end of February to hand over this job. On Wednesday, you must come to my office with a commitment to complete the project by then,” said Umahi.
The project, which is critical for improving transportation in the region, has faced ongoing delays despite previous assurances of timely completion. Umahi stressed that both contractors and ministry officials must be accountable for their roles in ensuring the project serves the public interest.
Impact on the Community and Regional Mobility
The Mararaba–Keffi road expansion is a crucial part of improving road infrastructure in Nigeria, as it connects key areas in the middle-belt region and supports economic activities in the broader north-central zone.
Minister Umahi also took the opportunity to inspect key points along the corridor, including the Keffi flyover, stressing the need for diligence in both construction and supervision to guarantee the road’s timely delivery.
The government’s firm stance signals a renewed commitment to speeding up infrastructure projects and eliminating inefficiency within the Ministry of Works.
