In an effort to address long-standing infrastructural challenges and improve transit experiences, the Minister for Works and Housing, Engr. David Umahi, recently embarked on a comprehensive two-day tour of ongoing construction projects on federal roads in Edo State. During his visit, Engr. Umahi took the opportunity to commend the state governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, for his unwavering commitment to constructing durable concrete roads, underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts in advancing national progress and enhancing infrastructure resilience.
Accompanied by Edo State Commissioner for Roads and Bridges, Hon. Ethan Uzamere, Engr. Umahi meticulously inspected various road projects, including the Benin-Ekpoma-Auchi road, which serves as a vital artery connecting key economic hubs in the region. However, on the Benin-Ehor-Ekpoma corridor, the Minister made the decisive move to revoke 10km of the road project from Dantata and Sawoe Nig. Ltd due to significant concerns raised regarding the quality and progress of the work. This bold decision reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that infrastructural projects meet stringent standards and are completed within stipulated timelines.
As work resumes on Jattu Road, minister vows to deliver quality.
Addressing the concerns voiced by protesters at Jattu junction, Engr. Umahi reassured the community that work would recommence within the next two weeks. He pledged to provide diligent oversight of the project, ensuring that contractors adhere rigorously to design specifications and maintain uncompromising quality standards, including the construction of a pedestrian bridge at Jattu junction. This hands-on approach by the Minister underscores the government’s proactive stance in addressing infrastructural challenges and its determination to enhance road networks for the benefit of citizens.
Also in an interview, Commissioner Ethan Uzamere shed light on the state government’s proactive strategies for enhancing road infrastructure and addressing critical motability issues. He emphasized the pivotal role of collaboration between federal and state governments in tackling infrastructural challenges, particularly on vital corridors such as Agbede-Ekpoma-Irrua road. Commissioner Uzamere outlined both immediate and long-term plans for improving road networks, including the meticulous application of durable materials like concrete and exploring innovative road concessioning models for sustainable infrastructure development beyond the current administration.
Ekpoma Rd fixing: multi-phase plan, and community focus.
Regarding the pressing challenges on Ekpoma Road, Commissioner Uzamere outlined a comprehensive plan aimed at alleviating ongoing issues. This multifaceted strategy includes phased implementation, with priority given to essential palliative measures and robust engagement with relevant authorities and community stakeholders to ensure a seamless execution. By adopting a collaborative and inclusive approach, the government endeavours to address entrenched infrastructural deficiencies and elevate the overall infrastructure landscape for the benefit of communities across Edo State. While inspecting ongoing construction work on the vital Warri-Benin road, Engr. Umahi issued a stern warning to underperforming construction companies, emphasizing the government’s unwavering commitment to holding contractors accountable and ensuring the timely completion of infrastructural projects.
This resolute stance underscores the government’s resolve to enhance connectivity, facilitate economic development, and improve the quality of life for citizens across Nigeria. The revocation of the 10km road project in Edo State serves as a poignant reminder of the multifaceted challenges inherent in implementing infrastructure projects. However, it also underscores the government’s proactive approach and commitment to addressing these challenges through collaborative solutions. By fostering robust partnerships between government agencies, contractors, and local communities, the government endeavours to enhance the efficiency, quality, and resilience of infrastructure projects, thereby laying the foundation for sustained economic growth and development in Nigeria.
Related Article: FG to terminate abandoned road projects
Of course, this development signals a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s infrastructural development journey. It underscores the government’s commitment to upholding quality standards and addressing challenges promptly to ensure the efficient delivery of projects. Through collaborative efforts between federal and state governments, as well as engagement with communities and stakeholders, Nigeria can overcome long standing infrastructural deficiencies and pave the way for sustained economic growth and development. By prioritizing accountability, transparency, and inclusivity, the government lays the groundwork for a brighter future where robust infrastructure supports thriving communities and facilitates national progress.
Related Link
Federal Ministry of Works: Website