The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has dismissed claims of a rift between the Federal Ministry of Works and Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, insisting that all contractors must adhere strictly to government policies and approved pricing standards.
Umahi made the clarification on Saturday while briefing journalists on the ongoing rehabilitation of the Iddo Bridge in Lagos. He stressed that the ministry’s position was anchored on fairness, transparency and equal treatment for all firms handling federal infrastructure projects.
“Julius Berger thinks I have anything personal against them. I have nothing personal against them. Everybody has to accept the policies of the Federal Ministry of Works,” the minister said.
He explained that the same strict technical and financial standards applied to HiTech Construction Company and other contractors would be enforced across board, including on Julius Berger. According to him, compliance with the government’s pricing framework and quality benchmarks is non-negotiable.
Umahi recalled concerns in the past over inflated project costs and uneven treatment among contractors, noting that the current administration had directed that uniform standards be maintained.
While acknowledging Julius Berger’s longstanding reputation, he maintained that quality assessments must be objective. “You cannot take away the good job they are doing. Yesterday, they said they are the highest in quality. I said no, HiTech is highest in quality. Come and test it,” he said.
Iddo Bridge Rehabilitation
The minister commended the pace of work on the Iddo Bridge, describing the rehabilitation as critical to public safety and improved traffic management in Lagos.
He noted that the bridge’s low headroom had led to repeated accidents and fatalities, prompting urgent structural adjustments. Umahi expressed confidence that the project would be completed between May and June.
Third Mainland Bridge Extension
On the Third Mainland Bridge Extension project handled by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation, the minister said the Federal Government was satisfied with the progress recorded so far.
He disclosed that structural deflection observed at the return walls necessitated demolition and reconstruction of the affected sections to ensure long-term stability.
“We are going to destroy that and rebuild the service lanes. Then we will rebuild the return walls and ramps with concrete,” Umahi said.
Reaffirming the ministry’s stance, the minister stated that quality assurance, safety compliance and value for money would continue to guide the execution of all federal road and bridge projects nationwide.
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