The Federal Government says it is constructing a new generation of highways designed to last between 50 and 100 years, marking a major shift from Nigeria’s long history of short-lived and poorly built roads.
Minister of Works, David Umahi, disclosed this during an inspection of the Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano Expressway (Section I) on Wednesday. He explained that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is laying a sustainable foundation for durable infrastructure that will stand the test of time.
According to a statement issued by the ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Mohammed Ahmed, the new road design approach prioritizes durability, innovation, and cost-effectiveness over the outdated “cut-and-fill” method that has caused repeated road failures.
“We are building roads that will stand the test of time — roads that will last between 50 and 100 years, save public funds, and promote economic growth,” Umahi said.
“Nigeria must move away from the culture of patching and rebuilding every few years.”
🧱 Concrete and Recycling Approach
Umahi revealed that the ministry has adopted modern construction techniques combining recycling, milling, and concrete reinforcement, which will ensure highways can withstand decades of heavy traffic and harsh weather conditions.
He explained that the existing asphalt layers on many roads have stronger foundations due to years of compaction and should be recycled and strengthened rather than removed.
“You cannot achieve a better California Bearing Ratio by simply adding laterite. The existing subgrade has consolidated over time, giving it superior bearing capacity. That’s why we insist on milling, stabilizing, and strengthening rather than total replacement,” he added.
🚧 Abuja–Kaduna Expressway: A Model Project
Umahi described the Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano Expressway, handled by Infiouest International Limited, as one of Nigeria’s most advanced highway projects, commending the contractor for maintaining international standards and deploying over 300 heavy-duty machines.
The minister noted that the Renewed Hope Agenda aims to gradually phase out asphalt roads and replace them with rigid (concrete) pavements, which offer longer lifespan and lower maintenance costs.
“Concrete roads are more sustainable, especially for highways used by heavy-duty trucks,” he stated.
⚠️ Warning to Contractors and Engineers
Umahi warned engineers and contractors against removing structurally sound asphalt layers, describing the practice as wasteful and technically unsound.
“Asphalt has a lifespan of about 25 years. If milled and recycled properly, it can last much longer. We must adopt international best practices,” he said.
The minister reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring all ongoing projects meet global quality standards and deliver value to Nigerians.
👷 Quality Supervision and Contractor Accountability
The Minister of State for Works, Bello Mohammed Goronyo, who joined the inspection, said President Tinubu’s focus on durable infrastructure reflects his goal to make every kobo spent count.
He praised Umahi’s hands-on approach, calling him “a mentor to a new generation of engineers learning quality construction standards.”
Officials from the Ministry of Works, including the Director of Highways (Special Projects, North), Olufemi Adetunji, noted that consistent field inspections have helped keep contractors accountable.
The Chairman of Infiouest International Limited, Joseph Aboue Jaoude, assured that the company is delivering world-class results that meet both local and international benchmarks.
🌍 Strategic Importance of the Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano Expressway
The 375-kilometre dual carriageway is one of Nigeria’s most critical economic arteries, linking the Federal Capital Territory to northern trade hubs. Originally awarded in 2018 under the Buhari administration, the project faced delays due to insecurity, funding, and design reviews.
Under Umahi’s leadership, the Federal Government has reintroduced the project with a concrete pavement redesign, expected to drastically reduce maintenance costs and improve safety.
Once completed, the highway will cut travel time by more than half, reduce vehicle operating costs, and strengthen trade and security across the North-West corridor.
