The House of Representatives Committee on Works has expressed satisfaction with the quality and pace of work on Section One of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project.
The chairman of the committee, Akin Alabi, stated this during the inspection of the ongoing construction on Monday.
Alabi lauded the contractor for the “quality job” and the Federal Ministry of Works for its effective supervision.
Acknowledging some challenges highlighted by the contractors, Alabi urged them to ensure the project was delivered according to the agreed schedule.
He assured them that the committee would provide the necessary support for any additional costs required for the project’s completion, noting the contractor’s prudent use of funds allocated so far.
“From our part in parliament, our job is clear. If you want N100, for instance, we give you N50. When you show us what you have done with it and reasons to give you the balance of N50 — if you require more after that, parliament looks at it and chooses whether to approve or decline.
“In this case, based on what we have approved, there are contingencies that can accommodate changes. However, if they need more, they bring the matter to the parliament — committee of works— we will deliberate on it and support them the best we can.
“They have proven that the little they have received was used judiciously, so there is no reason we would not approve.
“And I have the authority of the Honourable Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abass, that whatever they need, within a reasonable limit, the parliament would approve for them.”
The Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, Olukorede Kesha, expressed appreciation to the committee for their independent assessment and commendation of both the contractor and ministry for the quality of work achieved thus far.
Kesha emphasised the need for understanding to ensure quality work, particularly in challenging areas, to maximise use of the nation’s limited resources.
