Federal Government Issues Stern Warning to Contractors Over Delays on Sokoto,Gusau and Zaria Highway

Contractors working on the Sokoto, Gusau ,Funtua and Zaria highway have been warned to strictly follow agreed timelines and construction standards as the Federal Government steps up monitoring of the critical infrastructure project.

The Minister of State for Works, Mr. Bello Goronyo, delivered the warning Sunday following an inspection of reconstruction works spanning Dange-Shuni and Tureta in Sokoto State, and Talata Mafara, Maru, and Bungudu in Zamfara State.

Speaking during the oversight visit, Goronyo explained that the inspection formed part of routine ministry assessments to verify progress, construction quality, and compliance with contract terms.

“This road serves as a vital transport artery connecting multiple states and plays a crucial role in facilitating the movement of people and goods throughout the region,” the minister said.

Leading a team of directors and senior ministry officials, Goronyo—representing the Minister of Works—emphasized that contractors must honor their contractual obligations fully, warning that the government would take necessary administrative action to ensure project targets are achieved.

While acknowledging satisfactory progress on the Sokoto–Tureta–Mafara segment, the minister urged contractors to maintain both pace and quality standards. He noted that earlier holdups caused by compensation disputes with affected property owners had slowed work, but construction had resumed after authorities resolved those matters.

Regarding the Mafara–Maru–Gusau section, Goronyo said the ministry had assessed current progress and would continue engaging contractors to ensure timely delivery.

He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s determination to complete the entire project within the agreed timeframe, in accordance with design specifications and contract provisions.

The minister also praised improved security arrangements at construction sites, noting that enhanced protection had created better working conditions for site personnel.

Goronyo stressed that the government remains committed to building durable road infrastructure through long-term planning in highway development across the country.

Accompanying him on the inspection were the Director of Highways Construction and Rehabilitation, Mr. U.B. Ekong, and the Director of Highways Planning and Development, Mr. C.A. Ogbuagu.