Works Minister Umahi: Confirms Inheritance of N1.5 Trillion Debt from Buhari Administration

In a recent announcement, the Ministry of Works revealed the formation of a committee to address the staggering N1.5 trillion debt owed by the federal government to contractors. Senator David Umahi, the Minister of Works, disclosed that six committees, each representing a geopolitical zone, will scrutinize certified certificates issued before May 29th, 2023, as well as those generated from May 29th, 2023, to the present date.

The statement, released on Sunday and signed by Chief Press Secretary Orji Uchenna Orji, outlined the committees’ mandate to review both approved and unapproved variations in prices, along with any pending augmentations. The objective is to make recommendations to the Ministry’s management for resolution.

Senator Umahi emphasized that the Ministry had brought these outstanding debts and reviews to the attention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic team and the Federal Executive Committee on road sector funding. He anticipates that the internal assessments conducted through these committees, complemented by external consultants, will pave the way for decisive actions to propel the Ministry forward.

Highlighting the challenges posed by unpaid certificates from the previous administration, the Minister underscored the need for contractors to present their claims to the committees with supporting documents. The submission window for contractors is set from Tuesday, December 12th, 2023, to Friday, December 22nd, 2023, between 9 am and 7 pm at the Minister’s Conference Room, 1st floor, Federal Ministry of Works, Headquarters, Mabushi Abuja.

Simultaneously, Senator Umahi acknowledged the importance of giving special attention to the road sector beyond the 2024 budget allocation received by the Ministry. Emphasizing the pivotal role of road sector development in Nigeria’s economic growth, he stated its potential impact on various sectors, including security, agriculture, trade, investment, health, and education.

Expressing gratitude to President Tinubu for his commitment to the Ministry, Senator Umahi recognized the approval of concrete pavement in numerous 2024 projects. He reiterated the Ministry’s dedication to advancing road infrastructure in alignment with Mr. President’s Renewed Hope agenda.