The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has directed all contractors handling federal road projects to use concrete cement to ensure durability, with some roads expected to last up to 100 years.
Senator Umahi issued the directive on Saturday during an inspection of the ongoing reconstruction of the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway.
Umahi said the Immigration Junction–Amansea border section of the expressway, being constructed by Reynolds Construction Company (RCC) with funding from MTN Nigeria, is scheduled for completion by May 2026.
“The era of heavy asphalt use is over. Concrete roads ensure long-lasting infrastructure,” Umahi stated, noting that RCC has completed 20 km of concrete work, with an additional 23 km under construction.
A subcontractor, Niger Cat, is also handling sections of the project.
He also emphasized that concrete roads provide far more durability than asphalt, which in Nigeria generally lasts no more than 15 years.
“Under President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, we are guaranteeing 100-year road lifespans,” Umahi added.
Umahi explained that consistent inspection of road projects ensures value for taxpayers’ money. “We are shifting from asphalt to concrete.
Roads such as the East-West Road, Trans-Sahara Highway, Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, and the Sokoto–Badagry route are either completed or ongoing with concrete construction,” he said.
He urged the people of the Southeast geopolitical zone to recognise the significance of the ongoing road projects and support the President’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.”
“The quality of these works will remain a legacy,” he said, encouraging public appreciation and engagement.
RCC is constructing 23 km of concrete road.
Niger Cat subcontracted sections, expected to finish their work shortly.
Total project coverage, including MTN-funded sections, is 104 km.
Concrete ensures longevity far beyond traditional asphalt.
Umahi noted that the Southeast region, previously challenged by deteriorating roads, is now witnessing transformative infrastructure developments.
