Umahi urges indigenous contractors to improve standards

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has called on indigenous construction firms to enhance the quality of their work in order to earn greater support from the federal government.

Speaking during an inspection of the Oyo–Ogbomoso dual carriageway project on Sunday, Umahi said President Bola Tinubu had given the Ministry of Works a clear directive to promote and empower local contractors capable of delivering projects that meet international standards.

The minister commended JRB Construction Company Ltd, the indigenous firm handling the completion of the remaining 36 kilometres of the Oyo–Ogbomoso highway, describing its performance as exceptional.

“I was here before, and all those difficult sections on this road have been fixed. JRB has done an incredible job,” Umahi said. “I declare JRB the best indigenous contractor in the Ministry of Works. The quality of their drainage is comparable only to Hi-Tech Construction Company. I am very proud of what they are doing.”

Umahi urged other local contractors to emulate the standards set by JRB and Hi-Tech, noting that with consistent improvement and investment in equipment and skilled manpower, indigenous firms could compete favorably with foreign contractors.

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“I want JRB to upgrade, and I want every indigenous company to aim for the level of Hi-Tech,” he added. “You have the equipment and the workforce, both expatriates and locals, and we are ready to partner with you. We will also report your impressive performance to Mr. President.”

The minister reiterated that the federal government’s priority is to build the capacity of local contractors to reduce overreliance on foreign firms.

“If indigenous contractors can deliver this quality of work, then there’s no justification for awarding 25 major projects to expatriates who contribute little to our economy,” Umahi said.

He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to empowering Nigerian firms that demonstrate excellence, accountability, and innovation in project execution.

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