Government Warns Contractors of Possible Consequences for Delay on Enugu-Onitsha Road Project

Contractors working on the 107km Enugu-Onitsha road dualisation project have been urged by the Federal Government to accelerate their progress.

During a meeting held on Friday with MTN, the Enugu State Government, and the contractors, RCC Ltd and Nigercat Ltd, Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, issued this directive.

Expressing his dissatisfaction with the sluggish pace of work on the project, the minister stated in a Friday statement, “I am disappointed by the slow progress of this project. The road is among the worst in the country. There are diversions everywhere, but the contractors, RCC and Nigercat, have not taken the necessary steps to improve these diversion points.”

He went on to say, “In line with the launch of our Operation Free our Roads, any vehicle accidents on ongoing projects or due to potholes on our roads will now be considered a violation of our policy by the officials of the Federal Ministry of Works.”

Blaming the contractors’ lack of commitment and sensitivity for the inconveniences faced by road users, he remarked, “It is important for the public to understand that the President’s intention is not to make their lives difficult in the process of road repairs. They have every right to demand that the contractors fulfill their obligations.”

The Minister praised the Enugu State Government for their decision to finance the construction of a 20km road section and expressed optimism that MTN would handle the project’s second phase.

He remarked, “The Enugu State’s intervention is a response to the contractors’ slow pace and funding challenges. Tax credits are intended to provide funds. Frankly, I doubt RCC will meet the promised 6-month completion deadline for this project.”

Advising MTN to consider engaging a different contractor in the area for quicker results, he emphasized the benefits of specialization and suggested expanding Nigercat’s responsibilities if they are performing well.

He cautioned contractors that the Federal Government would not entertain phased project handovers and has eliminated Variations of Price in contract management.