Umahi reads riot-act to China Harbour Engineering over road projects, demands quality job
Minister of Works, Senator Engineer David Umahi, has read the riot act to China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) and its sister company, China Harbour Operation and Maintenance Company (CHOMC), demanding that they deliver quality work on ongoing road projects.
The minister gave the contractors just seven days to address failing road sections and implement dust-control measures, following public complaints and a high-level meeting on Thursday, at the Ministry’s Headquarters in Abuja.
Engr. Umahi highlighted concerns over the Makurdi-9th Nile-Enugu road project, where excessive dust from construction activities has posed health and environmental risks to residents. He directed the permanent secretary to issue a letter mandating immediate dust-control measures, including soil stabilisation, warning that failure to comply within seven days could lead to project suspension.
On the Mararraba-Keffi-Akwanga-Lafia-Makurdi Dual Carriageway, the minister noted that portions completed by the previous administration were already deteriorating. He reiterated that the first five kilometres must be milled, re-asphalted with concrete, and properly re-marked within seven days. Other failed sections, including damaged bridge joints, blocked drainage channels, and overgrown vegetation, must also be rehabilitated.
Engr. Umahi emphasised the need for improved highway safety, directing contractors to monitor corridors closely and ensure the prompt removal of stationary vehicles to prevent accidents. He also instructed that all road furnishings be reinstated after maintenance works.
Expressing concern over the slow pace of the 7th Axial Road project in Lagos, the minister noted that key machinery has yet to be deployed and site clearance remains minimal despite substantial mobilisation funds paid to CHEC. He warned that failure to fully mobilise within the agreed timeframe will result in fund recovery and strict contractual action.
The minister stressed that the Renewed Hope administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will no longer tolerate poor execution, delays, or disregard for agreed standards. Warning letters, withholding of certificates, and other contractual consequences will be applied where necessary to ensure quality delivery.
On behalf of CHEC and CHOMC, the Acting Executive Director (Operations) of CHOMC, Mr. Stephen Lee, pledged to implement industry-standard anti-dust measures, fully mobilise for the 7th Axial Road, and rehabilitate the failed sections of the Mararraba-Lafia road.
