BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja
Committed to infrastructure development, the Federal Government has insisted that road projects built under Renewed Hope administration is more durable, will last between 50 to 100 years, save public funds, and promote economic growth.
The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi stated this during a follow-up inspection of ongoing works on the Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano Expressway, Section I (Abuja-Kaduna).
The Renewed Hope Agenda is a comprehensive programme under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration that priortises infrastructure, agriculture, security, economic reforms, social welfare and poverty reduction.
Umahi explained that the ministry is adopting modern construction methods and using materials that ensure road longevity and sustainability under varying climatic and traffic conditions.
"You cannot achieve a better California Bearing Ratio (CBR) by simply bringing laterite on the road. The existing subgrade, which has consolidated over years of traffic, has a stronger bearing capacity than a new one. This is why we are changing the approach by insisting on milling, stabilising, and strengthening, rather than removing old asphalt layers and replacing them with new materials," the minister stated.
He praised the contractor, Messrs Infiouest International Limited for the quality of work done so far, noting that the project’s design is among the most advanced in the country.
The minister hinted that the engineering method applied to road development will guarantee lasting results.
"Wherever we have potholes within the carriageway, we don’t just patch. We treat the entire section using a stone base and, where necessary, stabilise it with cement. On the shoulders, we excavate about 10 centimeters below the existing asphalt, refill with a stone base slightly above the level, and compact properly. This ensures stability and prevents water from undermining the structure," he revealed.
Umahi emphasised that proper milling and concrete reinforcement at critical points are key to extending the life span of Nigerian roads.
"Our design now prioritises rigid pavement (concrete roads) for major highways, while flexible pavements (asphaltic roads) are being phased out gradually. Where asphalt is used, we are introducing concrete shoulders to enhance strength and prevent failure. The goal is to ensure that no section of the road fails prematurely," he explained.
The minister cautioned engineers and contractors against tampering with existing asphalt layers that are structurally stable.
"Asphalt has a designed lifespan of about 25 years. When it is milled and recycled properly, it can serve even longer. WeGovernment must adopt international best practices and stop unnecessary replacement of strong materials," he advised.
Umahi reiterated the Federal Government's commitment to ensuring that all ongoing projects meet the highest quality standards and deliver value to Nigerians.
Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammed Goronyo, Esq. reaffirmed that President Tinubu's administration remains fully committed to improving road infrastructure across the nation.
He commended Engr. Umahi for his dedication and hands-on approach in the field, particularly in mentoring and inspiring young engineers to contribute meaningfully to national development.
The Director of Highways, Special Projects (North), Engr. Olufemi Adetunji commended the pace and quality of work executed by the contractor, noting that the minister’s consistent inspection visits are helping to ensure timely and high-standard project delivery.
Chairman of Infiouest International Limited, Mr. Joseph Aboue Jaoude stated that the company has deployed about 300 units of equipment to the project for efficient operations and delivery of quality work within schedule.
The Special Assistants to the President (S.A.-P) on Community Engagement, North Central and North West Zones, Dr. Abiodun and Hon. Abdullahi Tanko Yakasai respectively, appreciated the efforts of the current administration in transforming the nation’s road network.
They described the progress as a true reflection of the President’s commitment to development and quality service delivery to Nigerians.
This was contained in a statement by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Mohammed A Ahmed on Wednesday in Abuja.
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