BY ABDULKADIR M. LAWAN, JULY 14, 2026 | 12:03PM
The Borno State Ministry of Works and Housing has ordered the immediate suspension of construction activities on the Industrial Hub Road project along the Maiduguri–Kano/Jos Road.
The suspension was announced on Monday in a statement signed by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary.
It cited unsatisfactory performance by the contractor, Qumecs Nigeria Limited, as the reason for the action.
According to the statement, the suspension followed a follow-up inspection of the project site by the commissioner for works and housing, Engr. Adam Bukar Bababe, who expressed serious dissatisfaction with the pace and quality of work despite substantial government funding.
The ministry said the contract was originally awarded with a completion period of six calendar months. However, ten months after commencement, the project remains significantly behind schedule.
In the statement, government records indicate that approximately 70 percent of the contract sum has already been paid to the contractor to fast-track delivery.
In contrast, only about 35 percent of the work has been completed, a development the ministry described as unacceptable and a clear breach of the contractual agreement.
A detailed assessment also revealed major deficiencies in key components of the project, including the drainage system, dual carriageway, asphalt paving, and outfall works. All were found to be far below the approved scope of work and expected engineering standards.
In view of these findings, the ministry suspended the contract with immediate effect and directed Qumecs Nigeria Limited to appear before it for further discussions and appropriate administrative action.
Speaking after the inspection, Engr. Bababe reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum’s administration to transparency, accountability, and prudent management of public resources.
He stressed that all contractors handling government projects must deliver quality work and meet agreed timelines and specifications to ensure value for every kobo spent in the interest of the people of Borno State.