The Federal Government has set a firm deadline for the completion of the Eleme section of the East-West Road, urging contractors to prioritize drainage work to meet the April deadline.
During an inspection of the ongoing 15km road upgrade from Eleme Junction to Onne in Rivers State, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, commended Reynolds Construction Company Nigeria Limited (RCC) for the quality of work done but stressed that drainage construction must be accelerated to meet the completion target.
“RCC has done very well. The work completed in the past two months is more than what was done since the project started,” Umahi stated.
“However, the project slowed down significantly when the site manager went on leave. I’m happy to see him back and satisfied with the quality of work RCC is delivering.”
Umahi also issued a stern warning against unnecessary excavation for financial gain, urging the contractor to test the existing road shoulders before any digging.
“The existing shoulder has to be tested throughout. I don’t want them digging up areas filled with sharp sand and stone base just to increase costs. If they don’t test it and request approval for any section they dig, they won’t get paid,” he emphasized.
The Minister further directed that sections of the road that have been completed for 21 days should be opened to ease traffic congestion, highlighting the importance of using durable concrete for the project.
“The concrete technology will ensure the road lasts between 50 and 100 years without maintenance or reconstruction. It is a signature project of President Bola Tinubu,” Umahi added.
The project is set to be completed by the end of April, contingent on the swift finalization of drainage work.