Umahi Lists Benefits Of Concrete Pavement In Road Construction

The Minister of Works and Infrastructure, Engineer David Umahi, outlined the advantages of utilizing concrete pavement in road construction in Nigeria.

Senator Umahi, the immediate past governor of Ebonyi State, emphasized that this technology is more cost-effective, which will alleviate pressure on the naira and promote increased cement production within Nigeria.

The Minister of Works disclosed these insights during an inspection of ongoing federal roads and concrete roads constructed by the Cross River State governor, Bassey Otu, in Calabar over the weekend.

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“In the use of concrete, there are numerous benefits. Firstly, when you construct a road, it can last up to fifty years without requiring major repairs. It is also more cost-effective compared to asphalt. Contracts can be structured to maintain fixed costs for a specified period, which helps stabilize expenses,” Engineer Umahi explained.

“This approach will reduce the demand for foreign exchange, prompting those currently importing bitumen to explore our domestic bitumen deposits. Additionally, at least ten companies have expressed interest in establishing cement factories, which will lead to job creation. The expansion of existing cement factories will also be facilitated. Currently, these facilities are operating at only 30% capacity,” he added.

Engineer Umahi also highlighted the positive impact on the engineering profession, providing opportunities for local engineers to apply their expertise independently.

Addressing concerns about not certifying contractors, he clarified that he would not be pressured into approving certificates without proper justification. If a project undergoes significant cost escalation, the contractor must provide substantial reasons for the adjustments.

“I will not approve certificates for projects that have experienced drastic cost increases without clear documentation and justification. I will not be coerced into signing documents that I cannot defend. I have conveyed this to Mr. President, and he supports my stance. For those whose projects have failed, I will not authorize certifications until the roads are repaired properly,” he asserted.

Engineer Umahi also commended the governor for adopting concrete pavement in road construction and praised his appointment of Engineer Pius Edet as the Commissioner for Works.

During his visit to the state, Senator Umahi also inspected sections of the ongoing dualization of the 28.6 km Odukpani power plant-Oku Iboku section of the Odukpani Junction-Itu-Ikot Ekpene Road in Akwa Ibom and Cross River State, a project managed by Sermatech.

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