The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has pledged to step down from office if the ongoing Abuja–Kaduna–Kano highway project fails quality assessment or is proven to be substandard.
Umahi made the declaration on Wednesday during the ministry’s budget defence before a joint session of the National Assembly. He said he was prepared to subject the project to independent testing to verify the standard of work delivered.
The session featured intense scrutiny from lawmakers, who raised concerns about the award of a section of the road contract to a company some legislators described as relatively unknown and previously linked to generator sales.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole, who represents Edo North, questioned the decision to withdraw the contract from an established construction firm and reassign it to another company. He argued that the firm lacked visibility and reputation in major road construction.
In his response, Umahi dismissed reservations about the contractor’s history. He maintained that performance and output should be the primary basis for judgment.
“I’m just hearing about Maikano for the first time. Whether they are selling goats or cows, they are doing well.
“I am satisfied with the quality of work on the Abuja–Kaduna stretch, and I challenge you to an inspection.
“Bring the best of your concrete testers. If you test it and it fails, I will throw in the towel,” the minister said.
Umahi insisted that the ministry remains committed to delivering durable infrastructure. He stressed that all ongoing federal road projects must meet approved engineering and safety standards.
The Abuja–Kaduna–Kano highway is one of the major road corridors in northern Nigeria. The project has continued to attract public and legislative attention due to its economic and security importance.
