The Federal Government has boasted that it is delivering roads across the country that will last between 50 and 100 years.

Works minister Engr Dave Umahi made this declaration on Tuesday during a follow-up inspection of ongoing works on the Abuja?Kaduna?Zaria?Kano Expressway, Section One rehabilitation.

According to him, the ministry has adopted modern construction methods and materials that will ensure road longevity and sustainability under varying climatic and traffic conditions.

The minister said, ?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 further commended the contractor handling the project, Messrs Infiouest International Limited, for the quality of work done so far, noting that the project?s design was among the most advanced in the country and explaining that the engineering method being applied was to guarantee lasting results.

His words: ?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 centimetres 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.?

Umahi emphasised that proper milling and concrete reinforcement at critical points are key to extending the lifespan of Nigerian roads.

He said, ?Our design now prioritises rigid pavement for major highways, while flexible pavements 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.?

The minister also cautioned engineers and contractors against tampering with structurally stable existing asphalt layers.

?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.

The minister added that the Federal Government?s commitment was to ensure that all ongoing projects meet the highest quality standards and deliver value to Nigerians.

?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.?

The Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammed Goronyo, also reaffirmed that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, under the Renewed Hope Agenda, remains fully committed to improving the road infrastructure across the nation.

He commended Minister 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, 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. (THE GUARDIAN)

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