FG terminates underperforming Abuja-Lokoja road contracts

FG Terminates Underperforming Abuja-Lokoja Road Contracts

The Federal Government has officially terminated several Abuja–Lokoja road contracts after contractors failed to meet performance benchmarks and delivery timelines.

The Federal Ministry of Works, under the leadership of Minister David Umahi, announced the decision following an exhaustive review of the projects. The Abuja–Lokoja highway, a critical transport corridor linking Nigeria’s capital to the southern regions, has long been plagued by delays and poor execution. According to Umahi, the termination was necessary to realign the projects with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes infrastructure as a driver of economic growth and national integration.  

The contracts affected include key sections of the Abuja–Lokoja road, the Lokoja–Shintaku–Dekina axis, and the Okene–Ajaokuta corridor in Kogi State. One of the most notable cases was the culverts-and-drains project on Section 2 of the Abuja–Lokoja road, handled by Sadogi Nigeria Ltd. 

Records showed that only 39.04 percent of the work was completed despite 112.88 percent of the project time having elapsed. Similarly, Venus Construction Nigeria Ltd managed Section 4A but achieved just 33 percent completion after exceeding its timeline by 131 percent.  

 

Minister Umahi emphasized that the decision was not unilateral. Some contracts were mutually terminated after consultations with contractors, directors of highways, and regional controllers. This collaborative approach was intended to avoid disputes while ensuring accountability. 

The government has confirmed that the terminated projects will be re-awarded to new contractors with stricter oversight and performance monitoring mechanisms.  

The Abuja–Lokoja highway is one of Nigeria’s busiest routes, serving as a gateway between the Federal Capital Territory and the southern states. Its poor condition has been a source of frustration for commuters, businesses, and logistics operators. 

The termination of underperforming contracts signals a renewed determination by the government to accelerate completion and deliver quality infrastructure. Umahi also directed contractors still engaged on other sections of the corridor to expedite work and adhere strictly to timelines.  

This move reflects a broader policy shift in Nigeria’s infrastructure management. By enforcing accountability and terminating contracts that fail to meet standards, the Federal Government aims to restore public confidence in road projects and ensure value for money. 

The Abuja–Lokoja case may serve as a precedent for similar actions across the country, particularly in projects where delays and inefficiencies have undermined national development goals.  

The termination of underperforming Abuja–Lokoja road contracts underscores the government’s resolve to prioritize efficiency, transparency, and delivery in infrastructure development. 

While commuters may face short-term disruptions, the long-term expectation is a safer, faster, and more reliable highway that supports Nigeria’s economic and social aspirations.