Lagos-Ibadan Expressway: Umahi Threatens to Terminate RCC's Contract

Minister of Works David Umahi in a recent development concerning the Lagos-Ibadan Expresswayhas issued a stern warning to Reynolds Construction Company (RCC) regarding their ongoing delays in completing the project.

The contract, which has been plagued by prolonged negotiations and disagreements over costs, is now at risk of termination if RCC fails to mobilize to the site within a seven-day deadline.

Umahi expressed his frustration during an inspection of the Lagos-Calabar coastal road, highlighting that while Julius Berger Plc had successfully completed Section 1 of the expressway, RCC had yet to finish approximately three kilometers of the Ibadan-bound section.

Umahi emphasized the importance of adhering to negotiation timeframes, stating, "The negotiation must have a timeframe." He further explained the challenges faced during discussions over the project's costs, questioning, "If I give at his cost, do I have the ability to pay? If I don't, and the contractor is not ready to take what others are taking, then we will have no other choice than to terminate the contract."

The minister also drew attention to the broader context of road construction delays, citing the Oyo-Ogbomoso road project, which has been stalled for 18 years. In addition to addressing the issues with RCC, Umahi announced plans to reconstruct the deteriorating portions of the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway using concrete pavement, with a promise of timely completion for the ongoing Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project by May next year.