Umahi Directs Contractors With Advance Payments to Resume Abandoned Projects

 Umahi Directs Contractors With Advance Payments to Resume Abandoned Projects

Nigeria’s Minister of Works, David Umahi, has ordered contractors who collected advance payments for federal road projects but failed to deliver to immediately return to site or risk losing further government support.

Umahi issued the directive while addressing concerns over stalled infrastructure projects across the country. According to him, it is unacceptable for contractors to hold on to public funds for several years without meaningful progress, yet continue to submit requests for additional payments.

He stressed that contractors who received Advance Payment Guarantees (APGs) must put the funds to use strictly for the projects they were approved for. Any contractor found diverting or parking government funds in banks while neglecting work on site would no longer be tolerated.

“It is not done anywhere in the world,” the minister said, noting that such practices undermine public trust and slow down national development.

Umahi made it clear that contractors who fail to comply with the directive would not receive payment certificates, especially those who have held advance funds for four to five years without visible progress. He warned that the era of collecting public money without accountability was over.

The minister added that the Federal Government is determined to recover its investments by ensuring that all funded projects are completed as agreed. He explained that infrastructure development remains a top priority of the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly in improving road safety, boosting economic activities, and enhancing connectivity across the country.

According to Umahi, the current administration is committed to enforcing discipline, transparency, and responsible use of public funds. He emphasized that contractors must either return to site immediately or face strict financial consequences.

“We will not continue to pay contractors who are still holding our money and refusing to work,” he said. “That time is gone.”

The Minister further stated that fixing government funds in banks while submitting large payment claims would no longer be accepted under any circumstance. He reaffirmed the government’s resolve to work closely with the President to restore accountability and protect national resources.

Umahi assured Nigerians that his ministry would continue to monitor ongoing projects nationwide and take decisive action against defaulters. He added that contractors who demonstrate commitment and deliver quality work would continue to receive government support.

The directive is part of broader efforts by the Federal Government to accelerate the completion of critical infrastructure projects and ensure value for money in public spending.