The Federal Government on Thursday took steps to ease rising tensions among road contractors nationwide, pledging that all outstanding payments owed to them will be cleared before December 20, 2025.
The assurance comes after days of protests by contractors, who raised concerns over mounting debts and stalled project financing, warning that many road projects risk complete shutdown if payments were not made.
Speaking during the reopening of the repaired Keffi Flyover in Nasarawa State, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, said President Bola Tinubu is fully aware of the backlog and has approved the establishment of a special committee to verify and settle all outstanding claims.
Umahi explained that the committee, already inaugurated, has been mandated to carry out a thorough audit of debts owed to contractors, reconcile verified figures, and ensure prompt disbursement of funds ahead of the December deadline.
According to him, the government is determined to restore confidence in the construction sector, noting that contractors remain crucial partners in the administration’s drive to deliver durable and sustainable infrastructure across the country.
He praised the contractors for their patience despite the financial strain and appealed for continued cooperation as the government works toward resolving the issues.
The reopening of the Keffi Flyover, which had undergone urgent repairs, provided Umahi an opportunity to reaffirm the Tinubu administration’s commitment to completing ongoing projects and improving road networks nationwide.
The minister added that clearing the debts would pave the way for faster project delivery, reduce delays, and strengthen the partnership between the government and the construction industry.
