Federal roads not more than 20% execution ’ll be redesigned as concrete – FG

* Says roads will have 50-year durability
* ‘Bitumen, now of low quality, puts pressure on the naira’

The Federal Government disclosed plans at the weekend to phase out traditional asphalt roads and shift towards the construction of concrete roads across the country.

The move, according to the Minister of Works, David Umahi, will enhance the durability and longevity of Nigeria’s road infrastructure as well as reduce the frequency of maintenance and repair works.

Umahi, who was in Akure, Ondo State capital to inspect the construction of the Akure-Ado Ekiti road, stated that the concrete roads will offer a remarkable 50-year lifespan, significantly surpassing the average lifespan of asphalt roads, which he put at 15.

According to the Minister, all ongoing road projects across the country that are not more than 20 percent done, including the Akure-Ado Ekiti road, will be redesigned to concrete pavement.

He said: “A very important thing that I must let you know is the issue of the introduction of concrete technology on our roads. You find out that we are having so much pressure on the Naira; the importation of bitumen is putting a lot of pressure on the Naira. But cement has a local content.

“Almost all our projects that were awarded three years ago are due for review; some have been reviewed through VOP (variation of price), and so it doesn’t leave us with an assurance that if a project is started, it will be appropriated for and it could be completed.”

Umahi, who earlier paid a courtesy visit to the Acting Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, stressed that concrete roads require less maintenance and exhibit better performance under extreme temperature variations, making them an ideal choice for Nigeria’s diverse climate.