The Niger State House of Assembly has issued a strong directive mandating strict compliance with safety protocols at all construction sites across the state.
Any contractor found flouting these rules is to face immediate suspension from project work.
The resolution was triggered by a motion presented by Hon. Engr. Mohammed Haruna, representing Bida II Constituency, and seconded by Hon. Isah Etsugaie of Agaie Constituency.
The lawmakers emphasized the urgent need to prioritize workplace safety—especially traffic control and hazard prevention—by requiring all construction companies to establish dedicated safety departments.
The motion followed concerns raised during a meeting between the Assembly’s Standing Committee on Works and Infrastructure, officials from the Niger State Ministry of Works, and contractors overseeing various ongoing projects.
Committee Chairman, Arc. Abubakar Suleiman Gomna, criticized the lax enforcement of safety standards, citing multiple site accidents and near-misses due to negligence. He questioned the Ministry’s oversight mechanisms and demanded improved monitoring and accountability.
Responding to the Assembly’s concerns, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Qs. Hassan Baba Etsu, assured the committee of stricter enforcement. He announced that no contractor would be paid unless full compliance with safety standards is confirmed.
Etsu added that all contractors had committed to meeting safety requirements, and the Ministry would continue to work closely with the Assembly to promote secure, efficient infrastructure delivery in line with the New Niger Agenda.
