FG Building Roads to Last 100 Years – Umahi

The Federal Government has assured Nigerians that ongoing road projects across the country are being constructed to last between 50 and 100 years, using modern and durable engineering methods.

Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, made this known on Tuesday during an inspection of the Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano Expressway (Section One) rehabilitation project.

Umahi explained that the ministry had adopted advanced construction technologies and high-quality materials designed to withstand Nigeria’s diverse climatic and traffic conditions.

> “You cannot achieve a stronger California Bearing Ratio (CBR) by simply replacing laterite,” the minister said. “The old subgrade, which has compacted over the years, has greater bearing strength. That’s why we’re changing our approach, instead of removing old asphalt layers, we are now milling, stabilising, and reinforcing them to ensure long-lasting results.”



He commended the contractor, Messrs Infiouest International Limited, for maintaining high standards on the project, describing the design and methodology as among the most sophisticated in the country.

According to Umahi, the new engineering model ensures that potholes are not merely patched but thoroughly rehabilitated.

> “Where we find potholes, we reconstruct the entire section with a stone base, and where necessary, stabilise it with cement,” he explained. “We also excavate 10 centimetres below the asphalt on the shoulders, refill with stone base, and compact properly to prevent water damage and ensure structural integrity.”



The minister noted that the Federal Government is transitioning to rigid pavements for major highways, a move that involves using reinforced concrete for durability, while phasing out flexible asphalt pavements.

> “Our design philosophy now ensures that no section of any major highway fails prematurely,” Umahi stated. “Where asphalt is used, we are introducing concrete shoulders to boost strength and stability.”



He warned engineers and contractors against unnecessary removal of structurally sound asphalt layers, stressing that properly milled and recycled asphalt can last beyond its standard 25-year design life if maintained with global best practices.

Umahi reaffirmed the government’s determination to deliver roads that offer long-term value to Nigerians.

> “We are building roads that will endure for 50 to 100 years, save public funds, and support national economic growth,” he said.



Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammed Goronyo, praised Umahi’s field-oriented leadership and described the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a major driver of nationwide road development.

Also speaking, the Director of Highways (Special Projects, North), Engr. Olufemi Adetunji, lauded the contractor’s performance and the minister’s hands-on inspections, which he said have improved project delivery timelines.

Chairman of Infiouest International Limited, Mr. Joseph Aboue Jaoude, revealed that over 300 pieces of heavy machinery have been deployed to the site to ensure efficient work and timely completion.

Special Assistants to the President on Community Engagement, Dr. Abiodun (North Central) and Hon. Abdullahi Tanko Yakasai (North West), commended the administration for its commitment to transforming Nigeria’s road infrastructure, describing the effort as a clear demonstration of President Tinubu’s vision for durable and sustainable national development.