Federal Road Projects: No Compromise on Standards – Hon Akin Alabi

The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Works, Hon. Akin Alabi, has reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the highest standards in the ongoing reconstruction and rehabilitation of road projects across the country. He vowed that there would be no compromise on quality and timely delivery, particularly for the recently re-awarded Abuja-Kaduna highway project.

Hon. Alabi made this statement during an inspection visit by the committee to assess the progress of ongoing federal road projects. He emphasised that accountability and transparency remain the top priorities in executing these critical infrastructure projects.

“We are fully committed to ensuring that Nigerians get the quality of roads they deserve. There will be no compromise on standards, and we will hold contractors accountable for every aspect of the work,” Hon. Alabi said.

The Abuja-Kaduna highway, a vital transportation route, was initially awarded to Julius Berger but was later revoked due to delays in delivery. The federal government re-awarded the contract to Infiouest Construction Company, setting a 14-month deadline for completion.

Hon. Alabi stressed the weight of responsibility on the new contractor, urging them to surpass expectations and deliver a road that meets global standards.

“That means there’s a big challenge and a lot of responsibility on their shoulders. When you take a project away from Julius Berger, you are expected to do better, and we will ensure that happens,” he added.

To maintain strict oversight, Hon. Alabi announced that the committee would conduct regular monitoring visits every two to three weeks to track progress and address any challenges.

“We’re just beginning. Every two to three weeks, we’ll be monitoring them. We’ll be coming on-site to check the progress, and when we return, we don’t expect to see the same thing. This project must be a success for all Nigerians,” he declared.

In response, the Central Project Manager of Infiouest Construction Company, Mr Robert Turner, assured the committee of the company’s commitment to meeting the deadline.

“From our side, we promise full commitment to complete this project within the 14-month deadline. It will require long hours of hard work, but we understand the importance of this road to the people, and we are dedicated to delivering on our promise,” Turner said.

Hon. Alabi further assured Nigerians that the House Committee on Works has put oversight mechanisms in place to prevent substandard work and unnecessary delays, ensuring that all federal road projects are executed efficiently and transparently.