In a bold move to enhance infrastructure development in Abuja, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued a stern warning to contractors failing to meet project deadlines.
During a recent site inspection, Wike expressed his frustration with the slow progress of the 15-kilometre left wing service lane of the Outer Southern Expressway, which stretches from Ring Road 1 to Wasa.
“This is unacceptable,” Wike stated.
He criticized CGC Nigeria Ltd., the company handling the project, for what he described as “disappointing performance.”
Wike pointed out that the contractor claimed to have completed 75 percent of the work, but he estimates it to be closer to 50 percent.
“Last year, you promised to finish by December 2024 or January 2025. Now, you have pushed it to May,” he added.
He further expressed concern that the project might not be completed for another eight or nine months.
“I am not going to accept this,” Wike declared firmly.
The Minister revealed that the FCT Administration had already paid over 80 percent of the contract sum, yet the progress was far from satisfactory.
“This is very bad. I am not encouraged,” he said, emphasizing the need for accountability.
Wike made it clear that the government would not tolerate non-performing contractors, regardless of whether they are local or foreign.
“We don’t have any relationship with non-performing contractors,” he asserted.
“Everybody knows our position: if you don’t perform, we kick you out,” he stated, adding that there would be consequences for failing to deliver.
“You can’t just collect our money and not complete the project. There must be sanctions,” he insisted.
His frustration grew when he observed that no construction equipment was present during his initial inspection of the road.
“It seems you only mobilized equipment because I announced my visit,” he noted, calling such behavior unacceptable.
Despite CGC Nigeria Ltd. being regarded as a respected construction company, Wike did not hold back his disappointment regarding this specific project.
The Minister directed the Director of Engineering Services at the Federal Capital Development Authority to sit down with the contractor.
They must agree on a work plan and set a new completion timeline.
“The project is important due to the significant economic activities in the area,” he explained.
He stressed that a well-delivered project would alleviate traffic congestion, benefiting many residents and businesses.
Wike has called for the work plan to be submitted to him by Monday.
This warning comes amid broader discussions about infrastructure development across Nigeria, where project delays have often frustrated citizens and hindered economic growth.
Wike’s strong stance reflects a growing demand for accountability in public works, as citizens expect timely delivery of essential services.
Contractors working in Nigeria face increasing scrutiny as citizens demand that their projects meet both deadlines and quality standards.
Wike’s actions could signal a shift in how government officials interact with contractors, particularly in a country where many projects often face delays and mismanagement.
As Abuja continues to grow, the need for efficient infrastructure becomes even more crucial.
The Minister’s commitment to improving project delivery will likely be watched closely by both the public and other government officials.
“It’s time to get serious about our commitments,” Wike concluded.
