The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Ministry of Works to prioritize and support serious indigenous contractors.
Speaking to journalists after an investigative hearing with the Senate Committee on Works regarding federal road projects, Umahi criticized some expatriate contractors for lacking the necessary equipment and personnel.
He emphasized the need to grow indigenous contractors to handle the numerous projects inherited by the administration.
During the hearing on the uncompleted Odukpani-Itu Federal Highway in Cross River State, Umahi stated that under President Tinubu’s leadership, contractors without the required equipment and personnel would not be awarded contracts.
Addressing criticism of President Tinubu’s administration, Umahi dismissed it as envy and jealousy. He highlighted Tinubu’s long-standing vision for national development, including the Lagos-Calabar coastal road project.
According to Umahi, this project is a catalyst for economic growth across all states, despite controversies surrounding its implementation.
He explained the necessity of diverting the road route at Kilometer 16 to avoid damaging crucial submarine cables, which provide network connectivity to Nigeria and other West African countries. “The diversion, which resumed at Kilometer 24, affected bare land, including property belonging to the Oba of Lagos. Umahi praised the Oba’s commitment to national development, contrasting it with opposition from non-indigenous critics.”
Umahi commended the Senate Committee on Works, particularly its Chairman, Senator Mpigi Barinada, for supporting the president’s vision. He noted Senator Mpigi, a PDP member, had even moved a motion advocating for Tinubu’s re-election in 2027 to ensure the completion of ongoing projects.
The minister also criticized certain contractors for prioritizing financial gains over project execution. “I’m David, and like David in the Bible, I fight battles. I will not give up on ensuring value for money and accountability,” he said.
On indigenous contractors, Umahi reiterated Tinubu’s directive to prioritize local players. He noted, “Some expatriate contractors handle up to 20 projects without equipment or personnel. We must empower serious indigenous contractors to take over and complete these projects.”
Umahi concluded by expressing gratitude for the president’s unwavering support, stating, “Under President Tinubu, no contractor will succeed without meeting the required standards.”
