FG Declares State of Emergency on Suleja-Minna Road, Cancels Contractor’s Deal
The Federal Government of Nigeria has declared a state of emergency on the construction of the Suleja Minna road, a major link between Niger State and the Federal Capital Territory.
The declaration was made on Saturday, June 29, by the Minister of Works, David Umahi, during an inspection visit to the site. According to Umahi, the road divided into two major sections has long been a source of hardship for commuters due to its poor condition and stalled construction.
“The Suleja-Minna road is a gateway to the North from the South. The government can not allow its current condition to persist. By the power vested in us by President Bola Tinubu, we are declaring a state of emergency on this road,” the minister said.
Umahi revealed that the government had terminated the contract of Salini Nigeria Limited, the previous contractor responsible for one section of the project. He criticized the company for failing to meet the expectations and delivery timeline.
In its place, the government has begun emergency procurement procedures to bring in more competent contractors. The minister assured that no bureaucratic delays will be tolerated as the reconstruction work kicks off under the emergency framework.
The decision follows a presidential directive to prioritize the completion of strategic federal roads that have economic and security implications. Umahi emphasized that the Tinubu administration is focused on “projects that touch the lives of ordinary Nigerians” and that all abandoned or underperforming road contracts will be reviewed.
“This road must be completed swiftly. The suffering of Nigerians on this corridor is unacceptable,” Umahi declared.
The 40km Suleja Minna road serves as a major commercial artery in north-central Nigeria. Its current state has led to increased travel time, high accident rates, and logistical delays affecting both human and cargo movements.
The emergency intervention is expected to bring immediate palliative work and accelerated full reconstruction once the new contractor is mobilized.
