The Ondo State government has directed contractors handling the construction and rehabilitation of technical colleges across the state to accelerate work or face contract termination.

The warning was issued on Thursday by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Technical and Vocational Education, Tayo Oluyi, during a sensitisation meeting with contractors in Akure, the state capital.

“Governor Aiyedatiwa has further mentioned that any contractor who fails to deliver on the job as expected shall be sanctioned,” he said.

Mr Oluyi said the directive became necessary following his inspection tour of several government-owned technical colleges, during which he assessed the progress of ongoing construction and rehabilitation works.

“The meeting was convened to review past efforts, interface with contractors, and identify measures that would ensure timely completion of the projects,” he explained.

He noted that the Technical Education Board’s management presented records and updates on the projects, highlighting bottlenecks affecting some contractors.

Mr Oluyi reaffirmed Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to technical and vocational education, describing skilled trades as the backbone of industrial development.

“Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa understands that skilled trade is the backbone of any industry. That is why he has provided the financial resources needed to ensure that students learn in a modern, safe, and industry-standard environment. He expects these projects to be delivered within record time,” he said.

He reiterated that the governor had made it clear that contractors who failed to meet expectations would be sanctioned, stressing that no excuse would be acceptable, as most of the necessary funds had already been disbursed.

“No excuse is tenable, as most of the wherewithal had been disbursed, and at completion, no contractor shall be owed a dime,” Mr Oluyi said.

The governor’s aide lauded contractors who had completed their projects and those who had made significant progress, urging others with pending work to return to the site immediately.

He also assured that the state government would collaborate with host communities to ensure smooth project execution.

The project supervisor, Gbenga Onibudo, presented an update on progress, urging contractors to prioritise timely delivery and quality workmanship for the benefit of the communities.

Representing the contractors, Yemi Dara expressed appreciation to the state government for its engagement and support, particularly in addressing past challenges, and pledged full cooperation in delivering the projects as required.