ABUJA — Minister of Works, 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 during an inspection of ongoing federal road projects in the Federal Capital Territory and Nasarawa State.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Works, Umahi commended China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) Ltd, the contractor handling the Keffi-bound section of the road, for the progress recorded on the project. He also praised JRB Construction Company for work on the Abuja-bound emergency rehabilitation section, expressing confidence that the project would be completed ahead of its March 1, 2028 deadline, including the installation of solar-powered streetlights.
Okay News reports that the minister reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to ending abandoned and substandard infrastructure projects, stressing that contractors must adhere strictly to approved specifications and contractual obligations. He assured contractors of the government’s readiness to meet its financial commitments while insisting that quality standards must not be compromised.
Umahi directed contractors to prioritise the completion of unfinished sections before commencing additional asphalt works, noting that incomplete stretches had delayed several projects nationwide. He said the ministry’s focus remains on delivering durable and safe infrastructure capable of serving Nigerians for decades.
During the inspection tour, the minister also assessed progress on Section II of the Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano Road being executed by Infiouest International Ltd, with outstanding works expected to be completed by November 12, 2026.
Lawmakers accompanying the inspection, including Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Senator Allwell Onyesoh, Chairman of the House Committee on Works, Akin Alabi, and House member Jeremiah Sa’idu, commended President Bola Tinubu for accelerating infrastructure development across the country. They described the projects as critical investments expected to boost economic growth, improve transportation, and strengthen national integration.
The Federal Controller of Works in the FCT, Mohammed Usman, praised the minister’s hands-on supervision and the contractors’ commitment to maintaining quality standards. Also speaking, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (North Central), Abiodun Essiet, said the projects reflect the administration’s efforts to improve the welfare of Nigerians through strategic infrastructure investments.
JRB Construction Company Managing Director, Jamilu Ogunbola, said the firm’s involvement in the Abuja–Keffi Road project demonstrates the growing capacity of indigenous construction companies to execute major infrastructure projects in line with international standards.
The ministry said the inspection underscores the Federal Government’s determination to ensure the timely completion of critical road projects under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, with infrastructure development remaining a key driver of economic transformation and national development.
