FG Threatens to Revoke ₦56bn Abuja–Lokoja Highway Contract Over Delays

FG has threatened to revoke ₦56bn Abuja–Lokoja highway contract over delays.

NewsOnline Nigeria reports that the Federal Government has issued a stern warning to the contractor handling the ₦56 billion Abuja–Lokoja highway project, citing unacceptable delays in execution.

Minister of Works, David Umahi, who inspected the project over the weekend, said the government would not hesitate to revoke the contract if progress is not significantly improved by November.

The 53-kilometre stretch of the highway is slated for completion by April 2026. Originally designed with asphalt, the contractor opted to switch to concrete at the same cost, a move Umahi described as more durable. While commending the quality of work so far, the minister expressed frustration at the slow pace, warning that milestone-based payments would be strictly enforced.

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“We are giving you advanced notice to accelerate. If by November there is no improvement, I will discontinue the job and reassign it to contractors who can deliver,” Umahi declared.

He added that sections of the road may be split among multiple contractors if targets are not met, stressing that outstanding payments would be cleared within 30 days to eliminate funding excuses.

The minister also noted that an additional 86-kilometre stretch of the highway is being procured, hinting that only committed contractors would be considered for inclusion in future phases.

Minister of State for Works, Bello Goronyo, described the Abuja–Lokoja highway as a priority project of the Tinubu administration, warning that delays will not be tolerated.

Earlier this year, the Federal Executive Council approved ₦733 billion for major road projects nationwide, including the Abuja–Lokoja section now under scrutiny.