The Federal Government has declared a state of emergency on the long-troubled Suleja–Minna Road, citing its catastrophic condition and the urgent need for reconstruction. The announcement was made by Minister of Works, David Umahi, during an inspection tour on Saturday, June 28, 2025.
Umahi described the road as “in a very terrible situation,” noting that what should be a 90-minute journey now takes over seven hours, with frequent accidents and fatalities. The road, which links Niger State to the Federal Capital Territory, has been plagued by years of neglect and failed contracts.
Originally awarded to Salini Nigeria Limited, the project was reportedly abandoned or poorly executed. Despite repeated efforts over 18 months to compel the contractor to resume work, no progress was made. Umahi confirmed that the contract with Salini has now been irrevocably terminated, and the ministry may involve the EFCC to recover public funds if necessary.
Two new contractors have been mobilized to take over the project, including China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), which has already completed 60 kilometers under Niger State’s urban renewal program. The federal government will oversee the remaining 146 kilometers, with CCECC given 10 days to begin work on the most critical sections.
“This is a fight for Nigerians,” Umahi declared. “There is no going back.”
