Lagos State Government has issued a stern warning to contractors handling various housing projects, emphasizing that failure to meet deadlines will result in the termination and re-awarding of contracts to more efficient contractors.
The move follows growing concerns over the delayed progress of key housing developments in the state.
The Commissioner for Housing, Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, voiced his dissatisfaction with the pace of work during a recent inspection of the Sangotedo Housing Estate, Eti Osa Phase 2. Despite the state government’s continuous support and commitment to the contractors, Akinderu-Fatai lamented that the project had not reached the expected level of progress.
During a project evaluation meeting at the Ministry of Housing’s secretariat in Ikeja, Akinderu-Fatai reiterated his discontent, stressing that delays would no longer be tolerated. “Shifting of completion periods will no longer be accepted. We will not allow you to slow us down, as there is increasing pressure on the government to deliver on its promises, particularly in the housing sector,” the commissioner stated.
The review meeting, which included formal briefs from project supervisors and technical teams, also saw the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Abdulhafis Toriola, urging contractors to meet deadlines without compromising the quality of work.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s dissatisfaction was also highlighted, with the commissioner pointing out that many contractors had failed to honor their timelines for various project phases. “The Governor is not pleased with the inability of contractors to meet the agreed delivery schedules for key housing projects,” Akinderu-Fatai added.
The Sangotedo Housing Estate Phase 2, once completed, will feature 43 blocks, adding over 500 housing units to the existing stock. The first phase of the project, which includes 744 homes, was inaugurated by Governor Sanwo-Olu in December 2023.
The ministry has vowed to closely monitor the progress of these housing projects to ensure timely delivery, with strict actions to be taken against contractors who fail to adhere to the agreed timelines.
