Niger State Lauds Progress in Urban Renewal Projects and Infrastructure

The Niger State government North central Nigeria has expressed satisfaction with the ongoing projects initiated under the urban renewal programme.

During the ministry’s inspection tour in Minna town, the Commissioner of Works and Infrastructure, Umar Sulaiman conveyed the government’s appreciation for the progress made by the contractors.

Sulaiman acknowledged a challenge with the Minna-Bida road under the Dantata and Saweo Construction Company, which exceeded the project’s time frame.

The Commissioner also said that the State government made a payment of N12 billion out of the total N17 billion, constituting 67 percent of the project funds, despite only 40 percent of the work being completed.

Sulaiman further said that “the project, awarded three years ago for the construction of Bakongo to Grantu fifteen kilometers, with an initial 18-month duration, is still ongoing.”

He emphasised that the ministry would conduct a meeting with the construction company’s management before advising the Council on the project’s way forward.

Also speaking, Commissioner of Budget and Planning, Mustapha Ndajiwo stated that “the state government is impressed with the ongoing work”, urging the consultant to maintain the process.

The Commissioner said the Bago-led administration is proactive in taking the state toward a promised land in infrastructure and development.

In his response, Naafey Bin Shaukat, the project manager of Dantata and Saweo, acknowledged challenges regarding compensation and pledged to intensify efforts.

The Project Manager affirmed that the state fulfilled its responsibilities, and the company would be back on site soon.

The inspection covered various locations, including Leprosarium Road, Tagwai, Esther Bypass Road, and Bida-Minna Dual Carriageway, aligning with the ministry’s responsibility to monitor state government-awarded projects, ensuring quality and standards are maintained.

The inspection team comprised the Commissioner of Works and Infrastructure, Commissioner of Budget and Planning, Permanent Secretary of the two ministries, and Directors.

Mercy Chukwudiebere