The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to delivering durable road infrastructure capable of lasting between 50 and 100 years.
Umahi made this statement during a follow-up inspection of ongoing works on the Abuja–Kaduna–Kano Expressway, Section I (Abuja-Kaduna) recently.
Speaking to newsmen, Engr. 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.
“That is why we are changing the approach — we are 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. He further explained the engineering method being applied to ensure lasting results.
“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.
According to the statement released by the Ministry, Umahi who emphasised that proper milling, concrete reinforcement at critical points are key to extending the life span of Nigerian roads, said, “Our design now prioritises rigid pavement (concrete roads) for major highways, while flexible pavements (asphaltic roads) are being phased out gradually.
The Minister also 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. We must adopt international best practices and stop unnecessary replacement of strong materials,” he advised.
“We are building roads that will stand the test of time — roads that will last 50 to 100 years, save public funds, and promote economic growth, he affirmed.
The Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammed Goronyo, also reaffirmed that Tinubu’s administration under the Renewed Hope Agenda, remains fully committed to improving the road infrastructure across the nation.
The Director of Highways, Special Projects (North), Engr. Olufemi Adetunji, also commended the pace and quality of work being executed by the Contractor, noting that the Minister’s consistent inspection visits are helping to ensure timely and high-standard project delivery.
In his remarks, the Chairman of Infiouest International Limited, Mr. Joseph Aboue Jaoude, stated that the company has deployed about 300 units of equipment to the project to ensure efficient operations and the delivery of quality work within schedule.
Similarly, 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 appreciated the efforts of the current administration in transforming the nation’s road network, describing the progress as a true reflection of the President’s commitment to development and quality service delivery to the Nigerians.