The Federal Government has terminated the contract awarded to Levant Construction Ltd for the reconstruction of the Benin-Sapele-Warri Road (Section 1: Benin - Imasabor) due to non-performance.
Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, disclosed this on Tuesday while addressing journalists in Abuja.
He stated that the project, being executed under the Road Infrastructure Development and Refurbishment Investment Tax Credit Scheme, was revoked after repeated failures by the contractor to meet contractual obligations.
"Despite warnings and notices, Levant Construction Ltd failed to respond, leading to the decision to terminate the contract.
"I have directed the Permanent Secretary to get the job properly terminated and write a letter for joint measurement. Additionally, we will request repayment of the Advance Payment Guarantee (APG), and if necessary, the matter will be taken to the EFCC," he said.
Umahi made the announcement following a meeting with the Chief Executives of GELD Construction Ltd and SKECC Nigeria Ltd. He expressed satisfaction with the two firms, noting their commitment to intensify work on their respective sections of the road project.
The minister also acknowledged the support of the Delta and Edo State governments in intervening on some stretches of the road.
Addressing claims of marginalization in road infrastructure development, Umahi emphasized that the Renewed Hope administration remains dedicated to inclusive national development. He highlighted major ongoing projects in the North, including the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Road, the Sokoto-Zamfara-Katsina-Kaduna Road, and the Kano Northern Bypass.
"In fact, the North has 52% of the four legacy projects of Mr. President, while the South has 48%. I urge Nigerians to see these projects as national endeavors, benefiting the entire country," he added.
Umahi reaffirmed his ministry’s commitment to restoring public confidence in Nigeria’s road infrastructure and advancing the goals of the Renewed Hope agenda.
