Minister of Works, David Umahi, has disclosed that the Federal Government will soon enforce stricter measures, including private sector patrol contracts, to protect federal infrastructure across the country.
Umahi made the disclosure at the weekend while inspecting the Aba–Port Harcourt carriageway, describing the road as a critical economic corridor linking Abia and Rivers states. He noted that the Aba-bound carriageway, being handled by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), has reached 90 per cent completion and is expected to be substantially ready by April.
The minister condemned roadside trading, chemical spillage, and the removal of manhole covers and expansion joints along federal highways. He also cautioned transport unions and petroleum tanker operators against parking on newly constructed carriageways, warning that static loads damage pavement structures designed for dynamic traffic.
According to him, the project had previously stalled due to funding constraints but has regained momentum following intervention by the current administration. He assured that outstanding payments running into billions of naira would be settled within weeks to sustain progress.
Umahi said contractors remain liable for defects within 12 months after completion, stressing that any failed sections would be repaired at their expense. He expressed satisfaction with the quality of work and set April as the target for completion of the Aba-bound lane ahead of a proposed commissioning in May.
The Port Harcourt-bound carriageway has been awarded to JRB Construction Company Limited, which the minister described as a well-equipped indigenous contractor. He explained that unlike the asphalt design used on the Aba-bound lane, the Port Harcourt-bound section is being constructed with reinforced concrete pavement technology for greater durability.
The minister added that the President has encouraged increased participation of indigenous contractors, particularly in emergency interventions, to build local capacity and foster competition in the sector.
Umahi also inspected the Eleme–Onne axis of the East–West Road in Rivers State, revealing that one carriageway of the 15-kilometre dualisation project handled by Reynolds Construction Company (RCC) has been completed, while the second is about 80 per cent done.
He noted that the project includes five flyovers and reinforced concrete pavement to address the region’s high-water table, which has contributed to repeated asphalt failures. An additional one-kilometre failed section is also being incorporated to ensure seamless traffic flow.
The minister further announced that completed sections of federal roads would feature solar-powered streetlights, CCTV surveillance, speed monitoring systems, and security patrol vans as part of efforts to enhance infrastructure protection.
He said solar installations are expected to commence shortly, with broader integration of intelligent traffic systems before September, in line with the administration’s plan to transform major highways into secure and technologically monitored corridors.
Umahi credited President Bola Tinubu for prioritising funding releases, noting that over 50 per cent of certified payments for some projects have already been disbursed.
The Federal Comptroller of Works in Rivers State, Tarilade Enwerama, confirmed that bridge works, drainage, and road construction are progressing simultaneously and expressed optimism that the entire stretch would be ready for public use by April.
Blessing Ibunge
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