Odita Sunday 
FG Moves to Fast-Track Abuja–Keffi, Kaduna–Kano Roads as Umahi Inspects North-Central Projects
By Odita Sunday
The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, has expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work on the reconstruction and expansion of the 43.65-kilometre Mararaba–Keffi Road, reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to delivering critical road infrastructure across the country.
Umahi stated this during an inspection of ongoing Federal Government road projects in the Federal Capital Territory and Nasarawa State.
The minister inspected the Mararaba–Keffi (Keffi Bound) Road project being executed by China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) Ltd., describing the progress recorded so far as encouraging.
He also commended Messrs JRB Construction Company for the quality of work on the Full Emergency Rehabilitation of the Mararaba–Keffi (Abuja-Bound) Road and expressed confidence that the project would be completed ahead of the March 1, 2028 completion date, including the installation of 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,” the Minister urged the Contractor.
Umahi reiterated the Federal Government’s resolve to end abandoned and poorly executed projects, stressing the need for contractors to comply with approved specifications and contractual obligations.
“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 asserted.
The Minister further directed the contractor to complete all outstanding sections before embarking on additional asphalt works, noting that unfinished stretches had contributed to delays in several projects nationwide.
He emphasised that the Ministry’s focus remains the delivery of durable and safe infrastructure capable of serving Nigerians for decades.
Umahi also inspected Section II of the Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano Road being handled by Messrs Infiouest International Ltd., noting that outstanding works are expected to be completed by November 12, 2026.
Speaking during the inspection, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Sen. Allwell Onyesoh, Chairman of the House Committee on Works, Hon. Akin Alabi, and Hon. Jeremiah Sa’idu commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for sustaining investments in infrastructure development.
They said the projects would improve connectivity, support commerce and strengthen national integration, while pledging continued legislative support.
The Federal Controller of Works, FCT, Engr. Mohammed Usman, praised the level of commitment shown in the execution of the projects and commended the Minister’s supervisory role as well as the contractors’ adherence to quality standards.
Also, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement, North Central Zone, Dr. Abiodun Essiet, said the ongoing infrastructure investments reflect the administration’s commitment to improving citizens’ welfare and promoting economic growth.
In his remarks, the Managing Director of JRB Construction Company, Mr. Jamilu Ogunbola, said the project demonstrates the increasing capacity of indigenous firms to execute major infrastructure projects in line with international standards.
The Ministry said the inspection tour reflects the Federal Government’s determination to ensure the timely completion of strategic road projects under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
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