The Federal Government has officially terminated the contract for the 98-kilometer Oyo-Ogbomoso Road, initially awarded to RCC Construction Company, citing prolonged delays that have hindered regional economic growth and mobility.
This announcement was made by the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, during the Oyo Federal Roads Stakeholders’ Engagement held in Ibadan.
The event, themed “Enhancing Federal Roads in Oyo State: Challenges and Sustainable Solutions,” brought together government officials, industry experts, and local stakeholders to address pressing infrastructure concerns in the state.
Engr. Umahi, while addressing attendees, lamented the long-overdue status of the project and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring its completion.
He assured the public that the contract would be swiftly re-awarded to a more competent contractor with the capacity to execute the project within the shortest possible time.
“The delay in completing the Oyo-Ogbomoso road has caused significant economic setbacks, not just for the immediate communities but for the entire state. We cannot continue to tolerate stagnation in key infrastructural projects that affect the livelihoods of millions,” Umahi stated.
The Oyo-Ogbomoso road, a critical segment of the Lagos-Kano Expressway, serves as a major economic corridor, facilitating trade and movement between the South-West and Northern regions of Nigeria. However, persistent construction delays, poor project execution, and logistical challenges have turned the highway into a bottleneck, impeding economic activities and increasing road hazards for commuters.
Stakeholders at the engagement session expressed deep concerns over the prolonged completion timeline, highlighting how the road’s deteriorating condition has adversely impacted businesses, agriculture, and overall economic development in Oyo State. Many called for stricter oversight on federal road projects to prevent similar setbacks in the future.