- Julius Berger Plc Urged to Honour Commitment and Implement Realistic Contract Pricing
Abuja, Nigeria— The Honourable Minister of Works, Sen. Engr. Nweze David Umahi, CON, has underscored the critical need for corporate responsibility in Nigeria’s national infrastructure projects, urging Julius Berger Nigeria Plc to uphold their commitment to complete Section II of the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Road. The rehabilitation project, spanning 82 kilometres, has a Federal Government-approved contract sum of ₦740.8 billion, which the Minister insists must be accepted promptly to avoid further delays that could disrupt Nigeria’s economic recovery objectives.
In a meeting at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja on October 22, 2024, Sen. Umahi voiced concerns over delays in project mobilisation, highlighting that extended timelines have placed unnecessary burdens on road users and the Nigerian government. He expressed disappointment over continued negotiation efforts spanning more than 14 months without resolution, emphasising that any further delays would trigger potential contract terminations.
The Honourable Minister stated, “This is a time of economic challenges for Nigeria. Contractors must approach pricing with realism, bearing in mind the national interest. A 7-day deadline has been issued for Julius Berger to either accept or decline the reviewed contract terms, as indefinite negotiations undermine both the project and the welfare of Nigerians.”
The visit to the Minister also served as an introduction for Dr. Pier Lubasch, the newly appointed Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, who was accompanied by the outgoing Managing Director, Dr. Lars Richter. Dr. Lubasch acknowledged the importance of the project and committed to reviewing the minister’s concerns.
The Ministry of Works is advancing essential infrastructure initiatives aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope administration, designed to transform road networks and stimulate economic growth across Nigeria.
