Niger State Governor Umaru Bago has called on the Minister of Works, David Umahi, to revoke the contract for the long-delayed Minna-Suleja road, citing the lack of capacity by the current contractor, Salini Nigeria Ltd. The road project, which has been under construction for 14 years, has sparked concerns over its slow progress, despite claims of 86% completion.
Bago made the appeal during a town hall meeting in Minna, where he also discussed the 125km Niger State component of the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway, a key infrastructure project expected to have significant economic benefits. He recommended HiTech and CCEC, contractors known for their success on the Abuja-Kaduna road, as potential replacements, highlighting their proven ability to deliver quality work on time.
“We need reliable contractors who can complete projects on schedule,” Bago told the gathering.
He emphasized that the state government would continue to support President Bola Tinubu’s administration, but stressed that effective execution of infrastructure projects was crucial for the region’s development.
In his address, Minister Umahi expressed his dissatisfaction with the slow pace of the Minna-Suleja road project, calling it “very discouraging.” He said Salini Nigeria Ltd. had failed to deliver on its promises despite receiving federal funds over the years.
“The company cannot continue to collect federal funds for over 14 years without completing the project,” Umahi remarked.
Umahi also spoke about the broader 1068km Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway, which includes the 125km section in Niger State. He outlined the transformative potential of the project, noting it would stimulate growth by providing 68 dams, factories, and irrigation systems.
He urged the people of Niger to remain patient as the government focuses on long-term development goals under President Tinubu’s vision.
In addition, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, the Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, called for federal intervention to rehabilitate other deteriorating federal roads within the state.
Similarly, Senator Sani Musa, representing Niger East, pledged to secure funding for key infrastructure projects, including the Zungeru Bridge and the Tegina-Birnin-Gwari-Kaduna road.
Meanwhile, Akin Alabi, Chairman of the House Committee on Works, recommended that the federal government declare a state of emergency to address the dilapidated condition of roads in Niger State.
