No More Asphalt For Roads Construction, Umahi Insists

Minister of Works, Dave Umahi has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to banning asphalt for road construction.

He disclosed this to State House correspondents yesterday after meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa.

Umahi also emphasised the need for contractors to provide a 15-year guarantee for their projects.

He alleged a ‘gang up’ against this policy by ‘quick-fix contractors’ and ordered a shift towards concrete pavement.

Umahi acknowledged President Tinubu’s support and the approval of crucial requests, which he believes will revitalize Nigeria’s road infrastructure.

He also stated that his ministry would report erring civil servants to the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC) if they continued to sabotage the ministry’s efforts.

He further mentioned that the ministry had set up task forces in all the locations where these approvals were made by the president to ensure that, within three months, they would conclude all that is needed based on his approval.

The minister also issued a warning to foreign contractors, emphasizing that it would not be business as usual and urged them to respect the laws of the country.

He pointed out that the government inherited a massive 18,897-kilometer road network project valued at N14 trillion, with a funding gap of N6 trillion as of May 29, 2023.

Umahi expressed concerns over the viability of asphalt in regions with high rainfall and underground water, leading to road failures.

He urged contractors to guarantee the durability of asphalt projects for at least 15 years and obtain written assurances from reputable insurance companies.

He said, “But let me clarify a number of issues especially for the benefit of Nigerians and our stakeholders. There has been a kind of campaign by some quick fix contractors and some elements you know, within who do not wish us well, who want us to continue with the old order.

“But we can’t continue to do the same thing over and over and expect a different result. The truth is that our roads are not good. The truth is that the past government, earmarked a number of roads, which Mr. President inherited, close to, about 18,897 kilometer of road totalling N14 trillion,” he said.

Umahi proposed concrete pavement as a more durable alternative, citing successful projects in Lagos and Apapa-Oshodi Expressway.

He highlighted the economic benefits, including job creation and the potential for 10 cement factories to boost local production.