The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has threatened to kick out non-performing contractors executing projects in the FCT.
Mr Wike made the threat in Abuja on Friday after inspecting the ongoing construction of the 15-kilometre left-wing service lane of the Outer Southern Expressway from Ring Road 1 to Wasa.
The threat followed what the minister described as the “disappointing performance” of CGC Nigeria Ltd. executing the project, saying “it is barely 50 per cent as against CGC’s 75 per cent claim.
On what he would do to non-performing contractors, Mr Wike said, “We don’t have any relationship with non-performing contractors. Everybody knows our position that if you don’t perform, we kick you out.
“There is no sentiment about it. Whether you are an indigenous contractor or a foreign contractor, we don’t care. All we are concerned about is the work.”
Mr Wike recalled that the contractors promised to complete the project by December and, at the latest, by January 2025 but have now extended it until May.
“We have paid the contractor more than 80 per cent of this contract, and the job, as far as I am concerned, is not up to 50 per cent. I am not going to accept this.
“If you do the work, we go along with you; if you don’t do the work, we kick you out, and we will make you pay for it; there must be sanctions,” said the minister.
He explained that his attention was drawn to the project when he inspected the Apo to Karshi road on Thursday and passed through Wasa on his way back.
“There was no equipment here yesterday when I passed through the road. I believe it is because I said I was coming here today that you mobilised equipment. These are things I will not accept.
“CGC is one of the most respected construction companies in the country, but as far as this road is concerned, I am not happy,” he groaned.
The minister directed the director of engineering services at the Federal Capital Development Authority to sit with the contractor, agree on a work plan, and commit to a completion timeline.
He directed that the project delivery work plan should be on his table on Monday, pointing out that the road, if completed, would significantly reduce traffic congestion in the area.