ABUJA, NIGERIA – The Federal Ministry of Works has terminated road expansion contracts on the Obajana-Benin highway due to contractor non-compliance, causing significant project delays.
In a decisive move aimed at enforcing accountability and ensuring project delivery, the Federal Government has cancelled contracts awarded to three major construction companies—Mothercat Ltd, Dantata & Sawoe Construction Ltd, and Reynolds Construction Company (RCC) Ltd. These contracts, which pertain to the Obajana-Benin highway’s dualization, were revoked due to the contractors’ failure to meet performance expectations.
The cancellation specifically affects contracts 6136 (Mothercat Ltd), 6137 (Dantata & Sawoe Construction Ltd), and 6138 (RCC Ltd), impacting three crucial sections of the highway: Okene-Auchi in Kogi/Edo State, Auchi-Ehor in Edo State, and Ehor-Benin in Edo State.
The decision was announced by the Minister of Works, David Umahi, who cited substantial delays and non-compliance with contractual obligations as the primary reasons for the termination.
“These violations have significantly delayed the projects, leading to the expiration of the contracts due to the passage of time,” Umahi stated.
His announcement underscores the government’s commitment to holding contractors accountable and ensuring that infrastructure projects are completed on schedule.
In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media, Uchenna Orji, Umahi instructed engineers to immediately assess the site and ongoing projects, taking over control from the affected companies. This swift action is aimed at minimizing further delays and ensuring that the project progresses without interruption.
“The Federal Ministry of Works, under my watch, will not condone acts of unseriousness and sabotage by contractors whose plan is to become a clog in the wheel of progress of the Renewed Hope administration,” Umahi emphasized. He issued a stern warning that any funded project not meeting performance standards will face similar repercussions.
This development marks a critical juncture in the Federal Government’s efforts to overhaul Nigeria’s road infrastructure. The Obajana-Benin highway, a vital artery for commerce and transportation, has long been plagued by delays and substandard construction practices. The government’s decision to cancel these contracts sends a clear message to all contractors: compliance and performance are non-negotiable.
As engineers take charge of the affected sections, there is a renewed sense of urgency and optimism that the highway’s completion will not only enhance connectivity but also contribute significantly to the economic development of the region.
Residents and commuters who have endured the consequences of the delays are hopeful that this decisive action will lead to swift and efficient completion of the project, transforming the Obajana-Benin highway into a reliable and modern thoroughfare.
