In a decisive move to expedite the completion of the long-overdue Oyo-Ogbomoso road project, the Federal Government has terminated the existing contract with Reynolds Construction Company (RCC). This 98-kilometer stretch, a vital artery connecting the northern and southern regions of Nigeria, has faced significant delays, adversely affecting commuters and hindering economic activities in Oyo State.
Termination of RCC's Contract
On February 20, 2025, during the Oyo Federal Roads Stakeholders’ Engagement in Ibadan, themed "Enhancing Federal Roads in Oyo State: Challenges and Sustainable Solutions," Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, announced the contract termination. He expressed dissatisfaction with the project's prolonged delay, which has caused hardship for commuters and slowed economic activities in the area. Umahi assured stakeholders that the project would be re-awarded to a new contractor promptly to ensure its swift completion.
Economic and Safety Implications
The incomplete state of the Oyo-Ogbomoso road has had far-reaching consequences. Stakeholders, including Olamijuwonlo Alao-Akala, the lawmaker representing Ogbomoso North, South, and Oriire Federal Constituency, have lamented that the delay has hindered economic growth not only in the area but across Oyo State as a whole. Additionally, the number of road crashes being witnessed on the road is alarming.
Federal Government's Commitment to Infrastructure Development
This contract termination aligns with the Federal Government's broader strategy to ensure timely execution of critical infrastructure projects. Similar actions have been taken recently, including the cancellation of the Obajana-Benin Road contracts with three companies due to poor performance. Minister Umahi emphasized that the administration of President Bola Tinubu is committed to delivering the Oyo-Ogbomoso Road project in the shortest possible time.
Next Steps
The Federal Government is expediting the process to appoint a new contractor for the Oyo-Ogbomoso road project. Stakeholders and residents remain hopeful that this decisive action will lead to the road's timely completion, thereby enhancing safety, boosting economic activities, and improving the overall quality of life in the region.
Keywords: Oyo-Ogbomoso road, Federal Government, contract termination, Reynolds Construction Company, infrastructure development, economic impact, road safety, Nigeria, Oyo State, Dave Umahi.
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