The federal government has urged contractors handling the Abuja-Lokoja road projects to step up performance to meet the deadline.

The reconstruction of the Kotonkarfe-Abaji, Abuja-bound section, being handled by Messrs Trucrete Solutions Nig. on the Abuja-Lokoja project, covering about 47 kilometres, is only 10.21 per cent complete.

The repair of the Lokoja-Ganaja road, being constructed with concrete pavement by Gitto Costruzioni General Nig Ltd, awarded in October 2023 for a period of six months, has reached 99.73 per cent completion.

The rehabilitation of the Abuja-Lokoja section 4A by Sailthrough Construction Ltd had reached only 22.40 per cent completion.

Also, the dualisation of the Lokoja-Benin road, section I, phases I and II: Obajana junction-Okene road, being handled by CGC Nigeria Ltd., has recorded only 38.04 per cent completion.

Speaking while inspecting the project, the senior special assistant to the president on community engagement (North-Central), Abiodun Essiet, said the inspection team was aimed at assessing the progress rate and to engage the community.

Ms Essiet said, “During the festive period, we recorded heavy traffic on this axis, which prompted the intervention of the minister of works. The contractor was asked to open the side of the road that had been completed.

“The progress of work done is not encouraging at all. Just few months left to the deadline and they have only been able to achieve not much. I am not impressed by the level of progress being made.”

Ms Essiet called on the contractor to bring more equipment and collaborate with others to ensure this project is completed on time.

She stressed the need for better communication with the public, urging contractors to promptly inform the government and the media about road diversions or temporary blockages to ensure smooth travel for road users.

The presidential aide assured the contractors of President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to funding the project, stating that payments would be made under a structured arrangement, including support from the Renewed Hope Intervention Fund.

Ms Essiet also called on contractors to deploy additional equipment and manpower to fast-track completion, stressing that the road is being constructed with concrete rather than asphalt, a process that requires patience and understanding from host communities.

Commending the efforts of security and traffic agencies, Ms Essiet praised the Police and the Federal Road Safety Corps for assisting with traffic diversions.

She urged continued coordination among all stakeholders to ensure safe and seamless movement along the corridor.

Addressing concerns previously raised by contractors over insecurity, Ms Essiet revealed that the issue had been resolved, with the military agreeing to provide round-the-clock security following approval from the relevant brigade command.

(NAN)