By Edwin Philip, Lafia

The Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) Nasarawa State Council, Comrade Salihu Alkali, has called on the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, to revoke the contract awarded to Wizchino Engineering Limited for the construction of the Keffi–Nasarawa–Abaji road, citing slow progress, substandard equipment, and poor workmanship.

Alkali made the call during a federal road inspection tour in Nasarawa State, which involved journalists and officials from the Federal Ministry of Works. The team inspected multiple projects, including the 10.8-kilometre Agyragu–Kwara road in Obi and Keana local government areas and the Eastern Bypass in Lafia.

While praising the Chinese Harbour Company for completing their sections on schedule, Alkali expressed disappointment with Wizchino Engineering Limited. “This is a disservice to Nasarawa State and the federal government. Can you imagine using watering cans to pour bitumen and wheelbarrows among other crude implements? Government spending should be accountable,” he said.

The Commissioner of Works, Housing and Transport, Engr. Muasu Gosho, also criticised the contractor for slow progress and unprofessional practices, warning that the project must be completed before the next rainy season to avoid worsening road conditions. He contrasted the substandard equipment used on the Keffi–Nasarawa–Abaji stretch with the modern machinery deployed on the Lafia bypass.

The Federal Controller of Works in Nasarawa State, Engr. Isihaku Mamry, expressed disappointment that the contractor consistently failed to follow site specifications despite regular supervision and instructions. He confirmed weekly visits to ensure compliance and said a formal specification would be issued to address ongoing issues.

The Keffi–Nasarawa–Abaji road, initially awarded during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, spans 118 kilometres with an initial cost of ₦36 billion. The project was later re-awarded under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, with ₦233 billion allocated for phase two, which will be constructed in concrete rather than flexible pavement.

The inspection tour included the Director of Public Relations of the Federal Ministry of Works, representatives of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, and the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria, among other stakeholders.

Alkali and other officials stressed the urgent need to re-award the contract to a competent contractor to ensure timely completion and proper execution of the road project, which is critical for transportation and economic development in Nasarawa State.