Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, has announced the termination of the Abuja-bound carriageway contract on the ongoing Mararaba–Keffi road reconstruction project previously awarded to China Harbour Engineering Company Limited (CHEC).
During a project inspection on Saturday, Umahi expressed deep dissatisfaction with the company’s performance, accusing the firm of failing to adhere to directives and deliver quality work on schedule.
“We cannot continue to tolerate inefficiency,” the minister said. “The Abuja-bound carriageway is hereby withdrawn from the Chinese contractor. It will now be handled by capable local contractors who will ensure speed and quality delivery.”
The 43.65-kilometre dual carriageway — a critical corridor connecting Abuja to Nasarawa State and beyond — has been plagued by delays, uneven surfaces, and traffic congestion, causing frustration among commuters.
Umahi emphasized that the Ministry of Works had now adopted a new policy directive mandating that no section of any federal highway under construction should be left riddled with potholes or defects.
“Every project site must ensure that the entire stretch of the route is motorable at all times. We’ve also directed that no contractor should lay binder or pavement without a proper wearing course or completing the shoulders,” he added.
The minister reiterated the federal government’s commitment to prioritizing quality over sentiment, stressing that local contractors who meet performance standards will be given greater opportunities in ongoing and future projects.
The decision marks another bold move by Umahi, who has in recent months tightened oversight on contractors handling federal road projects nationwide, vowing that taxpayer money will no longer be wasted on substandard work.
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