Works Minister David Umahi defends Abuja–Kaduna–Kano Road quality, challenges critics, and vows resignation if substandard
The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has dismissed concerns over the Abuja–Kaduna–Kano Road project, asserting that he would resign if the road is found to be substandard.
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Speaking during his budget defence before a joint session of the National Assembly on Wednesday, Umahi emphasised that the focus should be on the quality of work delivered rather than perceptions or contractor reputation.
Questions had been raised about the award of a section of the project to a company described by some legislators as previously unknown and associated with generator sales.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole of Edo North asked why the contract was taken from an established firm and given to a lesser-known company.
Responding, Umahi said, “I’m just hearing about Maikano for the first time. Whether they are selling goats or cows, they are doing well. I am satisfied with the quality of work on the Abuja–Kaduna stretch, and I challenge you to an inspection. Bring the best of your concrete testers. If you test it and it fails, I will throw in the towel.”
The minister stressed that the choice of construction materials whether concrete or asphalt was secondary to proper supervision, noting that failures often result from poor oversight rather than material quality.
Earlier in the session, Umahi criticised the funding structure for capital projects, describing the cash plan adopted by the Federal Ministry of Finance as counterproductive to project success.
While defending the ministry’s 3.4 trillion naira budget proposal, he argued that the current funding method is hindering effective execution of infrastructure projects.
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Umahi’s remarks come amid heightened scrutiny of federal road projects, with lawmakers seeking greater accountability in contractor selection and project oversight.
