Minister of Works, Sen. Dave Umahi, has reaffirmed that the adoption of concrete technology in road construction is here to stay.
He directed contractors working on federal roads, particularly in the South-East region, to prioritize the completion of carriageways before addressing side roads, ensuring efficient project execution.
This directive was issued during Umahi’s inspection of ongoing road construction projects, including the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway in Enugu and Anambra States, managed by MTN Nigeria Communication Plc.
The minister highlighted concerns regarding the cost of certain projects, especially in light of the fact that some road shoulders were already showing signs of cracking due to the use of low-quality and adulterated bitumen.
Umahi stated, “I will allow the portions already laid with asphalt, but the failing road shoulder should be replaced with concrete carriage. I know what I am saying; the quality of bitumen in this country is low and adulterated.”
He emphasized the benefits of concrete technology, highlighting that it is cost-effective, safer, and reduces the time contractors spend on-site for post-project repairs. With concrete pavement, the risk of road failure is minimal, as compared to asphalt.
The minister further directed contractors who had left their construction sites due to payment issues to return promptly. He warned that if they failed to do so within seven days, their contracts would be terminated.
He assured contractors that funds would be made available as long as they fulfilled their part of the agreement in delivering projects as scheduled.
Umahi also pledged to meet with funding partners and those projects financed through appropriation to address financial concerns.
He emphasized that it is his responsibility to secure the necessary funds, while contractors must fulfill their commitment by resuming work.
During the inspection tour, the Operations Manager of Niger Cat Construction Company Ltd., Engr. Fadi Mosaad, commended the minister for his emphasis on concrete pavement, considering the soil texture and terrain of the region.
The projects inspected included the rehabilitation of the old Enugu–Port Harcourt Road (Agbogugu–Abia Border spur to Mmaku), the rehabilitation of Oji–Achi–Mmaku–Awgu–Ndeabgor Road section 1 in Enugu State, the construction of Ugwueme–Nenwenta–Mkwe–Ezere–Awunta–Obeagu–Mgbidi Nmaku Road in Enugu State, the construction of Enugu–Onitsha Expressway in Enugu and Anambra States, and the rehabilitation of Old Enugu–Onitsha Road (Opi Junction–Ukehe–Okpatu–Awhum, Abor–Udi–Oji to Anambra).
Minister Umahi reiterated the government’s commitment to enforcing concrete technology to ensure that Nigerians receive value for money in road construction projects.