Umahi won’t compromise standard service delivery – Dr. Sade

Public affairs analyst and philanthropist, Alhaji Abdulrahman Sade, known as Sadaukin Bauchi, has praised Minister of Works David Umahi for his competence and proven track record.

Sade dismissed allegations that Umahi had awarded a section of the Abuja-Kaduna road project to a non-existent company.

Speaking on Sunday, Sade, a long-time observer of Umahi’s work, emphasized that the former two-term governor of Ebonyi State and current Minister of Works would never compromise on quality.

Umahi, who was also elected as a senator before his appointment by President Bola Tinubu, has faced criticism over the Abuja-Kaduna road project, with claims that it was awarded to an inactive company. However, the minister has firmly denied the accusations, stating that the company in charge is both competent and fully lawful.

Sade described Umahi as a hands-on minister who personally inspects dilapidated and abandoned roads to assess their conditions.

He stated, “I’ve known Umahi for years, and his track record speaks for itself. He’s one of the most effective ministers in this administration, with a deep commitment to quality work, earning him accolades nationwide.”

Sade also noted Umahi’s swift response to the damage caused by floods, which disrupted several federal roads, and his timely interventions to restore them.

Regarding the Abuja-Kaduna road allegations, Sade clarified that the company accused of mishandling the project was incorrectly identified in media reports. The company involved is Infiouest International Limited, not the inactive Infoquest Nigeria Ltd, as previously reported.

Sade also praised Umahi’s advocacy for using concrete roads instead of asphalt, which he believes would save the government significant funds. He referenced Umahi’s statement that constructing the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano road using concrete could save up to N640 billion.

Finally, Sade reiterated that the Ministry of Works has no association with Infoquest Nigeria Ltd, reaffirming the legal standing and compliance of Infiouest International Limited, the actual company working on the project.