The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has countered Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde’s recent remarks questioning the cost per kilometre of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. Umahi asserted that Makinde misinterpreted the technical aspects of road construction and cost evaluation.
During an inspection of the Keffi Bridge and the Nasarawa–Toto Road projects, Umahi emphasized that the highway’s cost was meticulously calculated according to global engineering standards, urging that it should not be simplified to “political soundbites.”
Governor Makinde had previously challenged Umahi’s figures in a viral video, stating there was no need for the Minister to be evasive about the project’s costs. He insisted that payments made were meant for the project and should reflect the work completed.
Responding to these criticisms, Umahi described Makinde as “a brother and friend” but deemed it inappropriate for him to publicly question his integrity regarding the project’s costing. He acknowledged Makinde’s engineering background but highlighted that road construction involves complexities beyond his expertise.
Umahi stated, “I am his senior both in governance and in engineering practice. Anything he doesn’t understand, he should call me and ask.” He called for Makinde to retract his statement about Umahi “dancing around” the issue and suggested a debate on the matter.
Further defending the project, Umahi explained that the concept of cost per kilometre is not ambiguous and can be understood in both estimated and average terms. He clarified that estimated costs account for contingencies and price variations, which may not all be utilized. Once the project is completed, the actual cost can be determined by removing unused funds.
He expressed amusement at critics seeking clarification from Artificial Intelligence on the difference between estimated and average costs, noting that the AI’s response aligned with his explanation.
Umahi also referenced the National Universities Commission’s criteria for professorship, emphasizing that practical experience in the field constitutes expertise. He concluded by asserting his qualifications in engineering and expressing confidence in his professional standing.
