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, reaffirming the Federal Government’s determination to deliver durable infrastructure projects across the country.
Umahi made the remarks during an inspection tour of ongoing Federal Government road projects in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Nasarawa State. The reconstruction of the Mararaba–Keffi Road on the Keffi-bound carriageway is being executed by China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) Limited.
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While assessing progress on projects along the corridor, the minister also commended Messrs JRB Construction Company for the quality of work being delivered on the emergency rehabilitation of the Abuja-bound section of the Mararaba–Keffi Road.
He expressed confidence that the rehabilitation project would be completed ahead of its scheduled completion date of March 1, 2028, noting that the scope of work includes ancillary infrastructure 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 during the inspection.
The minister reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to ending the era of abandoned and poorly executed infrastructure projects, stressing that contractors must strictly comply with approved specifications, contractual obligations and directives issued by the Ministry of Works.
According to him, the government remains committed to fulfilling its obligations, including prompt payment for completed works, but insisted that quality standards must never be compromised under any circumstances.
Umahi also directed contractors to prioritise the completion of all outstanding sections of ongoing projects before embarking on additional asphalt works. He explained that several projects nationwide had suffered delays and setbacks due to unfinished stretches, adding that the ministry’s objective is to deliver safe, durable and fully serviced roads that will stand the test of time.
The minister further inspected Section II of the Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano Road project being handled by Messrs Infiouest International Limited. He disclosed that outstanding works on the project are expected to be completed by November 12, 2026.
Speaking during the inspection, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Senator Allwell Onyesoh, and Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Works, Hon. Akin Alabi, praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for accelerating infrastructure development across the country. They described the projects as strategic investments capable of boosting economic growth, improving connectivity and facilitating trade and commerce.
Also lending his support, the member representing Akwanga/Wamba/Nasarawa Eggon Federal Constituency, Hon. Jeremiah Sa’idu, commended the administration’s commitment to infrastructure renewal and pledged continued legislative oversight to ensure successful project delivery.
The Federal Controller of Works in the FCT, Engr. Mohammed Usman, highlighted the commitment demonstrated by all stakeholders involved in the projects. He commended Umahi’s hands-on leadership style and regular supervision, as well as the contractors’ adherence to quality standards and project timelines.
Similarly, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement for the North Central Zone, Dr. Abiodun Essiet, lauded President Tinubu’s investment in critical infrastructure and other development programmes aimed at improving livelihoods and promoting economic prosperity.
In his remarks, Managing Director of JRB Construction Company, Mr. Jamilu Ogunbola, said the firm’s involvement in the Abuja–Keffi Road project reflects the growing capacity of indigenous construction companies to execute complex infrastructure projects in line with international standards and best practices.
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The inspection tour underscores the Federal Government’s resolve to ensure the timely completion of critical road projects under the Renewed Hope Agenda, with infrastructure development remaining a key driver of economic transformation, national integration and improved quality of life for Nigerians.