The federal government has introduced a new policy requiring contractors to commence work on-site at least two weeks before receiving mobilisation fees. Minister of Works, David Umahi, announced the directive while inspecting the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano dual carriageway, stressing that only contractors capable of delivering projects efficiently will be engaged. He criticised what he described as ‘recalcitrant’ contractors who abandon projects after receiving initial payments, stating that the new approach aims to ensure accountability and sustainable road development. He commended Infiouest International (Nig) Limited for commencing work without an upfront payment, contrasting it with past practices where contractors received mobilisation fees before beginning work.
Umahi also emphasised the importance of quality assurance, directing resident engineers to ensure that the stone-base composition for road Construction meets the required standard of at least 70 percent stone content. According to him, deviations from this specification could compromise the durability of roads, leading to early failures. He further disclosed that approval for the Zaria-Kano section of the project would soon be finalised, with plans to complete a reinforced concrete overlay before the onset of the rainy season. The project was previously handled by Julius Berger before being reassigned to a new contractor.
Julius Berger remains key in Nigeria’s infrastructure development.
Addressing the concerns about Julius Berger’s role in ongoing Infrastructure projects, Umahi clarified that the company has not been sidelined. He affirmed that it remains involved in critical projects, including the Bodo-Bonny Road and several major bridges in Lagos. The minister commended the company’s new leadership for aligning with the ministry’s policies and maintaining professional engineering standards. He also reiterated that all contractors must strictly adhere to international best practices or risk losing government contracts.
Moreover, the Managing Director of Infiouest International, Joseph Abougaoude, expressed confidence in his company’s ability to deliver the Abuja-Kaduna road project on schedule despite not receiving initial payments. He pledged to meet all quality and timeline expectations, citing his commitment to supporting the current administration’s infrastructural development agenda. Meanwhile, Umahi assured that the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway’s first section would be completed before the end of the year, reaffirming the government’s commitment to delivering high-quality road networks across the country.
FG reaffirm commitment to accountability in infrastructure development.
Furthermore, the new policy on mobilisation fees reflects the federal government’s growing emphasis on efficiency and accountability in infrastructure development. Over the years, abandoned road projects have become a recurring challenge, often due to contractors receiving payments without fulfilling their obligations. By enforcing this requirement, the government aims to curb such practices and ensure that public funds are directed toward tangible progress. However, while the policy promotes discipline, it also raises questions about how smaller construction firms without substantial financial reserves will cope with the new expectations.
In addition to financial accountability, Umahi’s insistence on quality standards highlights the government’s broader focus on durability in road construction. Nigeria has long struggled with poorly executed road projects that deteriorate within a short period, often requiring costly repairs. The emphasis on stone-base composition and reinforced concrete overlays signals a shift towards building roads that can withstand heavy usage and harsh weather conditions. If effectively implemented, this could reduce the long-term costs of road maintenance and enhance connectivity across the country.
Related Article: FG approves ₦ 35 billion for Nataini-Kangiwa road
While the government’s renewed push for infrastructure development is commendable, its success will depend on consistent enforcement and adequate funding. Policies often face implementation hurdles, especially when political and economic pressures interfere. Ensuring that contractors adhere to the new requirements will require strict monitoring mechanisms, as well as penalties for non-compliance. Additionally, timely disbursement of funds after contractors meet their obligations will be crucial in maintaining trust and efficiency within the sector. Ultimately, the success of this approach will be measured not just by the speed of project completion but by the quality and longevity of Nigeria’s road infrastructure.