BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja
The Minister of State for Works, Hon. Bello Muhammad Goronyo has threatened to sanction contractors over delayed and failed projects, reaffirming its determination towards thectimely delivery of Sokoto–Gusau–Funtau–Zaria Road.
Goronyo stated this during an on-the-spot assessment of reconstruction works along key sections of the 750-kilometre highway, spanning Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina and Kaduna States.
While inspecting Sections of Dange to Shuni in Sokoto and onward through Talata Mafara, Maru and Bungudu in Zamfara, the minister stressed that the Federal Government would not tolerate undue delays on projects of critical national importance.
Goronyo noted that the inspection was conducted in line with the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to enforce strict compliance with approved standards, value for money, and early delivery of projects, meant to ease transportation challenges and stimulate economic activities.
He said: "I am personally leading senior officials of the ministry across these states to verify the quality of work delivered and to ensure that contractors live up to their responsibilities.
"I am also representing the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi to assess the level of work done and the degree of compliance with approved specifications."
While noting that some sections of the project recorded commendable progress, the minister expressed concern over the pace of execution, stressing the need for contractors to accelerate work in order to reduce hardship faced by road users.
He cited the Sokoto–Tureta–Mafara section, which has attained about 27 per cent completion, as relatively encouraging, and expressed dissatisfaction with the Mafara–Maru–Gusau section, where progress stands at approximately 16 per cent, describing it as unsatisfactory.
The minister warned that the Federal Government is prepared to restructure the project scope of underperforming sections, including restricting contractors to shorter distances and reassigning outstanding portions to more competent firms if noticeable improvement is not achieved.
Goronyo explained that earlier challenges linked to compensation for affected properties had been resolved, appreciating Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State for facilitating payments and ensuring community cooperation.
He acknowledged the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu for coordinating the security that enhanced safety for workers and equipment along the corridor.
Reiterating the Federal Government’s infrastructure strategy, the minister noted that the adoption of concrete pavement technology under the Tinubu administration is aimed at delivering more durable, cost-effective, and long-lasting road infrastructure nationwide.
He described the ongoing 1,068-kilometre Sokoto–Badagry Super Highway Project as a landmark initiative that will revive the long-standing vision of former President Shehu Shagari, adding that it would significantly enhance connectivity, boost trade, and promote national integration.
Goronyo commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for priortising infrastructure development, describing road infrastructure as a critical enabler of economic growth, national integration and shared prosperity.
He noted that the President’s unwavering commitment to revitalising key transport corridors across the country is already yielding tangible results under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Goronyo praised the Minister of Works, Engr Umahi for his hard work, visionary leadership and dedication to delivering the mandate of the ministry, adding that the ongoing reforms and adoption of durable construction standards reflected a clear focus on value, sustainability and long-term impact.
He added: "The Renewed Hope Agenda is about results. Nigerians deserve roads that last and projects that are completed on time, and this administration is committed to delivering it."
The inspection tour was accompanied by top management staff of the Ministry of Works, including the Director of Highways Construction and Rehabilitation, Mr. U.B. Ekong, and Director of Highways Planning and Development, Mr. C.A. Ogbuagu.
The minister and his team also engaged with host communities, assuring residents that the remaining compensation and project-related concerns would be addressed to ensure smooth and uninterrupted execution of the project.
This was contained in a statement by the Special Adviser Media to the Minister of State for Works in Abuja.
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