Fed Govt reiterates preference for concrete-paved roads

For the umpteenth time, the Federal government yesterday reiterated its preference for concrete-paved roads to solve the problems of road failures encountered in road infrastructure development.

Works Minister David Umahi confirmed that this was the rationale behind the innovative technology being embraced as a policy priority of the Federal Ministry of Works, with the full support of President Bola Tinubu who had authorised the immediate implementation of the technology in some ongoing projects.

The minister, who spoke while hosting Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo in his Mabushi, Abuja yesterday, underscored the necessity of employing concrete technology in road projects, citing the unique soil texture of certain regions in the country.

In a statement by his media aide, Uchenna Orji, the minister noted that concrete pavement has been proven to have the advantages of energy efficiency, low maintenance, and durability.

According to him, concrete, which is a good insulator and a choice for regulating temperature in both hot and cold environments, would be good for roads in the Northcentral state.

Commending Ododo, the minister encouraged him to undertake legacy projects that would leave a lasting impression on future generations.

He pledged continuous support to the governor in realising the vision of the current administration to transform the socio-economic landscape of the nation,

The minister said: “You have demonstrated the capacity, ability, and humility to learn. Exploit the successes of others and add it to your own success. These are things that people do not know.

“I will encourage you any way we can, through the magnanimity of Mr. President in your state. And we will also encourage you by this concrete road you desire so much support for.

“And I’m happy that your Commissioner for Works is here, and you have materials around your place, the Governor of Cross River, Bassey Otu was here yesterday, and he was emphasizing that the concrete road is the way to go.

“And I’m ready to get some people that can come and stay with you, one week or two weeks, and you will get it started. You will see that it’s cheaper, it’s better, it’s long-lasting and you have peace.

“In fact, in the last two months, Mr. President approved about 60 kilometers of concrete road in a section of Abuja -Lokoja Road.

“We will start it next month. And it is going to be fully on concrete also.”

Ododo hailed the minister for the noticeable improvements on federal road projects under his watch. He restated his commitment to serve the people of Kogi diligently.

Ododo said: “We count on your experience to guide us anywhere you feel we are not doing very well. We are very open. We are learning. And we pray to God almighty to be a good ambassador of our people and Nigerians. I sincerely appreciate you, sir.”