Bad roads: FG approves N48.518bn for urgent road repairs, maintenance
…More jobs coming — Fashola
In pursuance of the Federal Government’s commitment to developing the nation’s road network in the six geopolitical zones, the Federal Executive Council (FEC), has approved contracts for urgent repairs and special general maintenance of some roads nationwide worth N48.519billion.
While presenting the Memo, as one of three considered from his Ministry at Wednesday’s Federal Executive Council meeting presided over by Vice-President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo SAN, the Hon. Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola SAN explained that the aging state of federal roads nationwide has warranted the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency to procure the projects in its Amended 2022 Appropriation.
He added that the projects would enhance Federal Government’s objective of restoring the nation’s road network as part of the implementation of the National Development Plan (NDP) 2021 -2025.
The roads for which the Minister got approval for the award of contracts for urgent repairs, and special general maintenance included the construction of Gorgaram-Guri Road in Yobe state, in the sum of N40.907 billion, with a completion period of 36 months and the rehabilitation of the 90 kilometre Buni Gari-Gulani road also in Yobe state in the sum of N4.785 billion with a completion period of 36 months.
Approval was also received for the reconstruction of Water Corporation Drive and Trinity Avenue in Victoria Island, Lagos State. This was approved in the sum of N2.826 billion with a completion period of 36 months.
The approvals, which were sequel to the Memoranda submitted to the Council by the Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola SAN, showed that the construction of Gorgaram-Guri Road in Yobe state will be executed by Messrs Mothercat Limited, the Buni Gari-Gulani road will be rehabilitated by Messrs Hikam Engineering and Consultancy Limited, while the reconstruction of Water Corporation Drive and Trinity Avenue will be carried out by Messrs Wizchino Engineering Limited.
In terms of creating job opportunities, it was noted that due diligence and post qualification checks were carried out which showed that the companies have the capabilities to execute the contracts with a substantial number of jobs generated for Nigerians.
Advancing reasons for seeking the approvals, the Minister explained that “these roads have been reported to be in very bad condition and requiring urgent intervention to enable road users’ access to economic activities along the routes.”
