The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has urged indigenous construction firms to raise the quality of their work to attract greater support from the federal government.

Umahi said President Bola Tinubu has directed the Ministry of Works to empower and encourage local contractors, stressing that their performance would determine the extent of government backing.

Speaking during an inspection of the Oyo–Ogbomoso dual carriageway project, the minister commended JRB Construction Company Ltd, an indigenous firm, for the quality of its work on the remaining 36 kilometres of the road.

“I am impressed with the work JRB has done. When I last visited, the road was in a terrible state. But JRB has transformed it, and I declare it the best indigenous contractor under the Ministry of Works,” Umahi said.

He further challenged other local firms to emulate Hi-Tech Construction Company’s standards. “Every indigenous contractor should aim to reach the level of Hi-Tech. JRB has the equipment, the workforce, both local and expatriate, and the commitment. With this, we are ready to partner with them and report their achievements to Mr President for support,” he added.

Umahi also warned against overreliance on foreign firms. “If local contractors can deliver quality work, there is no reason to hand 25 projects to expatriates who often do not contribute to local development,” he said.

The minister’s remarks highlight the administration’s push to strengthen the capacity of indigenous contractors and boost local participation in Nigeria’s infrastructural development.