By Erewunmi Peace

The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, has issued a stern warning to contractors handling federal road projects across the country, insisting that failure to meet agreed deadlines will attract the involvement of anti-graft agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

Umahi, who made this known during his inspection of ongoing works on key road corridors such as the Abuja–Lokoja and Abuja–Kaduna–Kano highways, expressed dissatisfaction with the pace of work despite huge mobilization fees already paid to contractors.

He noted that some contractors had received billions of naira but delivered less than 20 percent progress, describing the situation as unacceptable. According to him, the federal government will not hesitate to terminate non-performing contracts and invite anti-corruption agencies to recover public funds.

“Contractors must understand that we are serious. Any project not meeting the timeline will be handed over to EFCC and ICPC. This government cannot continue to tolerate slow work where funds have been released,” the minister said.

Umahi further stressed that contractors must adhere to both timelines and quality standards, warning that excuses will no longer be entertained.

The minister also disclosed that government is determined to deliver critical road infrastructure within the life of the current administration, noting that road transport is a major driver of economic growth and national development.

With this warning, contractors handling federal road projects now face increased scrutiny and the possibility of losing contracts if they fail to meet performance expectations.