In a decisive move, the Federal Ministry of Works has instructed Julius Berger Plc to vacate the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano dual carriageway project site. This directive follows the issuance of a 14-day final termination notice, effectively ending any further negotiations with the construction giant. According to the ministry, the termination results from Julius Berger’s failure to comply with revised project costs, updated scope, and terms, as well as its refusal to remobilize to the site despite previous directives.
The decision was disclosed in a statement by the ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Mohammed Ahmed, who detailed the protracted and unproductive discussions with the contractor over the past 13 months. This development marks a significant escalation in the government’s efforts to ensure the project’s timely completion, following mounting delays and accusations of non-performance.
Background: Delays and Stalemate in Abuja-Kano Road Project by Julius Berger
The Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano dual carriageway project, initially awarded in 2017 under former President Muhammadu Buhari, has faced considerable challenges. Although the Kaduna-Zaria section has been completed and the Zaria-Kano stretch is nearing completion, the Abuja-Kaduna segment lags significantly, with only 27% progress made in six years. Initially contracted for N155.75 billion, the project cost has been revised multiple times due to adjustments in scope and materials, further complicating progress.
Minister of Works, David Umahi, has been vocal about his dissatisfaction with Julius Berger’s handling of the project, previously accusing the firm of delaying the work for political reasons. Umahi warned of terminating the contract if the company failed to show adequate commitment to project timelines—a threat now realized with the recent termination notice.
New Contract Adjustments and Scope Changes
In an attempt to fast-track the road’s completion, the Federal Executive Council approved a re-scoping of Section I of the project, which covers the Abuja-Kaduna stretch. The revised design split the segment into two phases, with one portion assigned to Messrs Dangote Industries Ltd for construction using reinforced concrete pavement, while Julius Berger retained responsibility for the remaining 127 kilometers, set to be constructed with asphalt pavement. The Dangote segment was flagged off on October 17, 2024, with a 14-month completion target.
Despite this approval, Julius Berger reportedly declined to accept the new terms, including the reduced contract sum of N740.79 billion from the initially revised N797.26 billion. With an inability to reach an agreement, the ministry, backed by the “Renewed Hope Agenda” of President Bola Tinubu, took the decisive step to terminate Julius Berger’s contract and pursue alternative avenues for the project’s timely completion.
Implications and Minister’s Record of Contract Terminations
The termination of Julius Berger’s involvement adds to Minister Umahi’s record of rigorous contract oversight, marking the 11th project termination under his 16-month tenure. The move underscores the administration’s commitment to enforcing accountability and ensuring the timely delivery of critical infrastructure projects. For road users, especially along the heavily trafficked Abuja-Kano corridor, the decision signals a renewed hope for the project’s completion.
In light of the persistent delays by Julius Berger and disruptions experienced by travelers on this route, the government aims to ease the burden on Nigerians and fulfill a key infrastructural promise. As the Federal Ministry of Works explores new contractors and realigns project timelines, all eyes remain on the Ministry’s next steps to expedite the completion of this essential road network.
which is a major road network in the northern part of Nigeria that connects with Abuja the federal capital territory.No doubt the economic importance of this road can’t be overemphasize , therefore it’s imperative for federal government and Julius Berger to find amicable resolution in the contract debacle over Abuja -Kano road
Table of Contents
Discover more from OGM News NG
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
