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The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has announced that the Federal Government has terminated the contract for the 43-kilometre Port Harcourt–Aba Road, which was being managed by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation, due to unsatisfactory performance.
Umahi shared this information while speaking to journalists shortly after inspecting the project on Sunday.
He stated that the decision was made following the contractor's ongoing inability to enhance their work despite numerous warnings, which has resulted in the collapse of portions of the project, even after significant funds had already been invested.
According to him, the Federal Government will now hire a capable local contractor to take over and complete the work.
“Today is the 19th of October. The Controller informed me that the Aba-bound section of the Port Harcourt–Aba Road being constructed by CCECC is on the verge of total collapse.
“This project, spanning 43 kilometres from Port Harcourt to Aba, is one we inherited, and since taking office, we have been doing everything possible, allocating funds to see if we can complete at least one carriageway.
“We began collaborating with CCECC on this particular carriageway, using concrete for the inner and outer shoulders to ensure the road's longevity, while they are using asphalt for the 7.3 carriageway.
“However, their construction methods have raised serious concerns, as they have been able to lay a binder over stretches of 30 kilometres without applying a wearing course,” he explained.
He noted that several letters sent to the contractor requesting maintenance of the road had gone unanswered.
The Minister also emphasized that despite the termination, CCECC is required to remove the binder that has already been laid, as they have been compensated for it, warning that he would halt all their projects in Nigeria if they do not comply.
The former governor of Ebonyi State expressed his disappointment, stating it is unfortunate that contractors managing multiple federal projects continue to deliver subpar work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the Port Harcourt–Aba Road contract terminated?
The contract was terminated due to the contractor's consistent poor performance and failure to improve despite multiple warnings, leading to the collapse of sections of the project.
What will happen next for the Port Harcourt–Aba Road project?
The Federal Government plans to engage a competent local contractor to take over the project and ensure its completion.
What concerns did the Minister raise about the contractor's methods?
The Minister expressed concern over the contractor's construction methods, specifically mentioning that they laid a binder over long stretches without applying a wearing course, which is essential for durability.
