The Nigerian Federal Ministry of Works and Housing in what appears an example of contract inflation practice in Nigeria has spent the sum of N18.213 million to construct a single borehole at Goru community in Kebbi State.
In what appears contract inflation and racketeering, the Works and Housing Ministry in an FOI response signed by Mr. Ode Martins, the Director Planning Research and Strategy, obtained by MAWA Foundation, claims to have paid N18, 213, 000.00 to construct a single borehole at the Goru Fulani Settlement located at the Benin Kebbi Local Government of Kebbi State.
The ministry in a meeting held on November 30, 2020, attended by Mr. Ernest Umakhihe, the Permanent Secretary and other Directors, endorsed Messrs. Alliance Trading Company Limited, to undertake the construction and hence awarded the contract to her.
Worse still, Mr. Wilfred Ezekama, who owns a hydrology firm, speaking to MAWA Foundation, said drilling a borehole in Kebbi does not cost beyond N7 million. He, however, added that amount should cover drilling and casing, installation of a solar-powered submersible pump, steel tower for the tanks, tanks, pipes, joints & suckers, installation, and labour.
It is not however clear, the factors considered by the Ministry of Works and Housing in arriving at the contract price.
Please note: Picture not real, used for an illustration.