The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has directed that two television stations be given weekly access to the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project site to document and broadcast ongoing construction activities to the public.
This directive was issued during the minister’s inspection tour of the project and several bridges in Lagos, as part of a federal government transparency initiative. The project has faced public scrutiny and allegations of irregularities in the bidding process.
Umahi emphasised the importance of keeping Nigerians informed about the development of the significant infrastructure project. He stated that upon completion, the public might not fully appreciate the extensive efforts involved in its construction, making ongoing documentation essential.
The minister expressed strong satisfaction with the contractor, Hitech Construction Company, praising their equipment, workforce, and commitment to national development.
During the inspection, Umahi highlighted specific technical challenges, noting that some sections required the removal of poor soil to depths between five and twenty meters before refilling with stone and sand to ensure the road’s long-term durability. He described these unwritten efforts as critical to the project’s stability.
Also, the Minister of Works instructed project managers and engineers to maintain meticulous records of all construction levels, including initial ground conditions, soil removal depths, and subsequent refilling and paving stages.
He mandated that these detailed records be compiled and shared with oversight bodies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, and the National Assembly by the end of September. Umahi affirmed that the ministry would continue to approve payment certificates without delay for verified work, commending the quality of sand filling, stone base, and reinforcement observed on site.
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cc: Nairametric NG
