The Federal Government has warned contractors handling its housing projects across the country to deliver within agreed timelines or face severe sanctions, including blacklisting.
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Development issued the warning after a meeting in Abuja with project contractors, convened by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Shuaib Belgore, alongside directors of relevant departments.
Belgore, in his remarks, stressed that the government would strictly enforce compliance with contract terms and procurement rules. He said erring contractors risk formal queries, recovery of mobilisation funds, forfeiture of guarantees, termination of contracts, and possible referral to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
“This session is not just about reminding you of your obligations. It is also to put you on notice that the ministry will not hesitate to protect public funds and ensure Nigerians get value for money,” Belgore stated.
He assured that contractors meeting expectations would continue to receive payments promptly once due processes were completed. The ministry also announced plans to embark on site inspections to monitor progress and address genuine concerns raised by contractors.
Reiterating the ministry’s alignment with the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Belgore said timely project delivery remained a top priority in efforts to provide quality and affordable housing for citizens.
Also speaking, Director of Public Buildings, Pemi Temitope, explained that the engagement was aimed at renewing contractors’ commitment and strengthening compliance mechanisms. He expressed concern that some contractors who had received mobilisation funds since 2024 had not applied for valuation of works, a key step in project monitoring.
While some contractors cited challenges such as delayed payments, harsh weather, and vandalism at project sites, the ministry insisted that performance and accountability were non-negotiable going forward.
