Minister of Works, David Umahi, has charged Federal Controllers of Works in all the 36 states of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to intensify supervision of Federal road and bridge projects, strengthen engagement with stakeholders and ensure that Nigerians are adequately informed about completed and ongoing infrastructure interventions in their respective states.
The Minister gave the charge during a strategic interaction with them at the Ministry’s Headquarters, on Tuesday, 12 August, 2026, where he emphasised that their responsibilities extend beyond routine administrative duties, as they are the Ministry’s representatives at the sub-national level and play critical roles in ensuring that projects are properly supervised, challenges are promptly addressed, and the public is constantly informed.
He therefore urged the Controllers to take greater ownership of the projects under their jurisdiction and to establish stronger working relationships with state governments, contractors, traditional institutions, community groups, other stakeholders, and the media.
Engr, Umahi insists that effective communication must complement effective project delivery, noting that road users and citizens should be able to access clear and factual information on projects being executed, including their locations, scope, implementation status and expected benefits.
He urged the Controllers to demonstrate greater commitment to the welfare of road users by remaining physically present at project sites, identifying and surmounting construction challenges early and ensuring that contractors adhere to approved specifications, quality standards and contractual obligations.
He also directed the Controllers to be proactive in resolving technical and construction-related challenges within the provisions of existing contracts. In this regard, he explained that legitimate provisions in the Bill of Quantities (B.O.Q.) and Contingencies should be properly understood and applied in accordance with the relevant contractual conditions, where necessary adjustments are required to facilitate efficient project delivery.
The Minister, however, cautioned that such provisions must not be used to create unnecessary work or additional expenditure for contractors, stressing that every adjustment must be technically justified, properly documented and approved, and directed towards achieving value for money, as well as improved project outcomes.
Engr. Umahi further emphasised the importance of professional judgement and timely decision-making, noting that unnecessary delays in addressing legitimate project challenges could increase cost, prolong construction period, and increase difficulties being experienced by road users.
He promised continuous capacity building within the Ministry, particularly for technical personnel involved in project monitoring and evaluation.
He explained that officers who require additional training would be exposed to appropriate learning opportunities to broaden their technical and professional competencies, adding that personnel must remain abreast of international construction best practices, contract administration, and project management procedures.
The Honourable Minister urged the Controllers to take personal interest in construction activities, observing that practical knowledge acquired from project sites is essential to effective supervision.