By Stephen Gbadamosi, Ibadan
Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Works, Hon. Akintola Alabi, has disclosed that the Federal Government (FG) has revoked the South-West federal highway contract awarded to Kopek Engineering.
Rep Alabi made the disclosure in a statement on Wednesday, 22 October.
The road had been a cause for concern to motorists in the South-West for years.
“I have received numerous inquiries regarding the current status of the construction of the Ibadan–Ife–Ilesa Express Road.
“Of utmost concern to those inquiring is the section stretching from Iwo Road to Asejire which falls within our constituency.
“While this segment directly affects us, it is important to note that the Federal Government considers the expressway as one unified project, not divided by constituency boundaries.
“For many years, the contractor handling the project was Kopek Construction Company. Unfortunately, due to various challenges, progress on the road has not been as fast or as satisfactory as expected.
“I am pleased to inform all road users and particularly the residents of Egbeda/Ona-Ara Federal Constituency that the Federal Government has terminated the previous contract.
“The project has now been re-awarded to CBC Global Civil & Building Construction Nigeria Limited, a reputable multinational construction company with an extensive track record of major infrastructure projects in Nigeria and across Africa.
“The new contractor will employ concrete pavement technology, a modern and durable method that ensures the road will not require major rehabilitation for approximately 50 years.
“Work is expected to commence from the Osun State end of the expressway.
“However, I am in active discussions with the contractor to carry out palliative works on the most deteriorated and dangerous sections within our constituency to bring immediate relief to road users.
“This, I promise, will commence as soon as possible.
“I would like to express my sincere appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for prioritising this critical infrastructure project and ensuring renewed commitment to its timely completion.
“I will continue to provide regular updates as the project progresses.
“Thank you for your attention to this matter and please be assured of my highest regards,” he said in the statement.
*PHOTO CAPTION: Rep Akin Alabi.
