By:ANNTV Report, Abuja.
The Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, has unveiled a set of new contractor rules and announced a digital monitoring system set to roll out in 2026, aimed at preventing unauthorized road closures and improving accountability on federal highways. The move comes after a crippling traffic gridlock paralyzed the Lokoja–Abuja Expressway during the Christmas travel season.
The directive was issued during an emergency meeting with contractors and senior officials at the Federal Ministry of Works headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, December 23, 2025. Thousands of motorists were stranded for hours on one of Nigeria’s most critical transport corridors, prompting swift government action.
“No contractor has the right to close roads without approval,” Umahi said, emphasizing that traffic flow must always be prioritized, especially during peak holiday travel periods.
Emergency Measures to Restore Traffic
The minister described the Lokoja–Abuja traffic standstill as “deeply embarrassing” for the government and criticized poor traffic management at construction sites for worsening the situation. He ordered:
Immediate reopening of all blocked lanes
Deployment of traffic control measures
Collaboration with security agencies to ensure free flow of vehicles
“Even if construction must pause, the roads must be freed. Nigerians cannot continue to suffer unnecessary hardship,” he said.
New Contractor Rules Announced
Umahi unveiled sweeping reforms for contractors, including:
Strict prohibition of unauthorized site closures
Mandatory traffic diversion plans before construction begins
Direct supervision of projects by ministry directors
Sanctions for defaulting contractors
He warned that contractors who fail to comply risk having their contracts reviewed or revoked.
Funding Assurance for Stalled Projects
Addressing concerns over stalled projects funded by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), Umahi confirmed that the President has directed all inherited projects to continue and be fully funded.
He disclosed that ₦260 billion has been approved to settle outstanding claims, with a special committee set up to verify and fast-track payments. “No contractor will be punished for government delays. But discipline and transparency are non-negotiable,” he said.
Digital Monitoring to Begin in 2026
Looking ahead, Umahi announced the ministry will launch a digital monitoring system in 2026. Features of the system include:
Uploading all projects to a public website
Contractors submitting updates online
Certifications and evaluations completed within 48 hours
The system is intended to reduce delays, eliminate corruption, and prevent disputes over payments.
‘A New Era for Infrastructure’
Minister of State for Works, Rt. Hon. Bello Muhammad Goronyo, pledged full support for the reforms, describing them as a “new era” for Nigeria’s infrastructure sector. “Nigerians are tired of excuses. This administration is committed to action, accountability, and visible results,” he said.
In closing remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works said the reforms mark “the dawn of a new era,” urging contractors to embrace professionalism and national responsibility. “Renewed hope must not just be spoken—it must be seen in how we work,” he said.
