Umahi Warns Of Contract Termination Over Delays On Calabar-Itu Highway Project

Umahi Warns Of Contract Termination Over Delays On Calabar-Itu Highway Project

The Federal Government has issued a firm warning to SEMATECH Nigeria Limited regarding the delayed progress on the Calabar-Itu Highway project.

Minister of Works, David Umahi, delivered the message on Monday in Awi, Akamkpa Local Government Area of Cross River State, during the official launch of the 750-kilometre Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway…READ MORE…

Expressing frustration with the contractor’s underperformance and slow pace of work, Umahi stated that the government would not hesitate to terminate the contract if there was no immediate improvement.

“I previously defended SEMATECH to the Cross River State Governor,” Umahi said. “However, if there’s no visible progress on the road, and with the Minister of State and our Permanent Secretary present, we are prepared to cancel the contract.”

Umahi also addressed another contractor, Roycon, over similar concerns. Despite receiving official approval two months ago for a section of the project previously revoked from a different firm, he noted that Roycon had yet to commence significant work on-site.

“You claim to be mobilising, but there’s little evidence on the ground. If we return and find no substantial activity, the contract will be terminated again — in the interest of the people,” he warned.

Commending President Bola Tinubu for his bold infrastructure agenda, Umahi praised his commitment and capacity to deliver transformative national projects.

“This President is far more capable than many realize. He is a man of vision. Only someone like him can deliver a 750km highway from Sokoto to Kaduna, a 700km route from Abuja to Zaria, and now this ambitious Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway,” he said.

Umahi reiterated that the government remains resolute in its commitment to timely and high-quality infrastructure delivery and will hold contractors fully accountable for delays.