The Federal Executive Council (FEC) on Tuesday approved a total of N42.4 billion as the cost of variation for three federal roads in the country. This significant decision was disclosed by the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, following the Council meeting chaired by President Bola Tinubu at the State House, Abuja.
Approval for Road Project Reviews
Minister Umahi provided detailed insights into the approvals granted for the review of ongoing road projects. He highlighted three major projects that received the Council’s nod for cost variations.
Umulungbe – Umuoka Road in Enugu State
The first project discussed was the construction of the Umulungbe – Umuoka road in Enugu State. Initially, the project was approved at a cost of N6.245 billion. However, after a thorough review, the cost has been increased to N8.85 billion, marking an addition of approximately N2.6 billion. This increase is aimed at addressing unforeseen challenges and ensuring the road meets the required standards for durability and safety.
Iganmu Bridge in Lagos State
The second project involves the repair of the Iganmu bridge in Lagos State. Originally, the repair work was estimated to cost N1.16 billion. Following the review, the cost has been revised to N2.229 billion. This adjustment is necessary to cover additional repair work and materials needed to restore the bridge to optimal condition, ensuring it can safely handle the heavy traffic it supports daily.
Dualization of Calabar to Udopkani Roads via Itu Road in Cross River State
The third project is the dualization of the Calabar to Udopkani roads via Itu road in Cross River State. This project has undergone significant changes, including a shift from flexible pavement to rejig pavement. The dualization process also involves improved soft structure engagement to enhance the road’s durability and capacity. The cost for this project has been revised from N79.649 billion to N118.412 billion. This substantial increase reflects the comprehensive nature of the upgrades and the need for high-quality materials and construction techniques.
Immediate Procurement for Katsina – Dutsenma-Maraba Road
In addition to the cost variations, the FEC also approved the immediate procurement for the full rehabilitation of the Katsina – Dutsenma-Maraba road. This road is crucial for the region’s connectivity and economic activities. The approval for immediate procurement underscores the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure and ensuring that critical road networks are in excellent condition.
Progress on Emergency Repairs and Major Projects
Minister Umahi also provided updates on the progress of emergency repairs and major road projects across the country. He announced that the 330 emergency repairs of roads and bridges, valued at over N500 billion, are approximately 80 percent completed. The Ministry of Finance has fully released N300 billion for these projects, demonstrating the government’s dedication to addressing infrastructure challenges promptly.
Publication of Project Details
To ensure transparency and keep the public informed, Minister Umahi stated that full details and the level of completion for these emergency repairs will be published by next week. This move aims to provide citizens with accurate information about the progress and status of critical infrastructure projects.
Major Road Projects: Abuja to Kano, Lagos to Ibadan, and the Second Niger Bridge
Minister Umahi also touched on the status of major road projects, including the Abuja to Kano road, Lagos to Ibadan road, and the Second Niger Bridge. These projects have been dismembered into three sections, with two sections assigned to Dangote and BUA, and the remaining section to Julius Berger. Julius Berger has already mobilized back to the site, and other tax credit contractors are expected to be mobilized by next week. This strategic approach ensures that these vital road projects are completed efficiently and to the highest standards.
Conclusion
The Federal Executive Council’s approval of N42.4 billion for the variation of costs in three federal road projects marks a significant step towards improving Nigeria’s infrastructure. The detailed reviews and subsequent cost adjustments for the Umulungbe – Umuoka road, Iganmu bridge, and Calabar to Udopkani roads via Itu road reflect the government’s commitment to ensuring that these projects meet the highest standards of quality and safety.
Furthermore, the immediate procurement for the rehabilitation of the Katsina – Dutsenma-Maraba road and the progress on emergency repairs and major road projects underscore the government’s dedication to enhancing the country’s road network. The publication of project details next week will provide transparency and keep the public informed about the status of these critical infrastructure projects.
As these projects progress, the government’s strategic approach and commitment to quality will play a crucial role in improving connectivity, boosting economic activities, and enhancing the overall quality of life for Nigerians.
