David Umahi says Tinubu’s administration is building 100-year highways using concrete technology to end Nigeria’s era of failing roads

David Umahi has declared that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is pioneering a new era of road construction in Nigeria, with highways designed to last between 50 and 100 years — a decisive break from decades of short-lived and poorly built roads.

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The Minister of Works made the statement during his inspection of the Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano Expressway (Section I), where he outlined the government’s new engineering standards aimed at durability, innovation and cost efficiency.

According to Umahi, the era of the “cut-and-fill” method — long blamed for Nigeria’s recurring road failures — is over.

He said the ministry has adopted advanced construction techniques that blend recycling, milling and reinforced concrete technology to create highways capable of withstanding heavy traffic and harsh weather conditions for decades.

“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 powerfully during the visit.

He explained that instead of discarding old asphalt, the new system recycles and stabilises existing materials which have naturally strengthened over years of compaction.

“You cannot achieve a better bearing ratio by just pouring laterite. The consolidated subgrade has a stronger foundation, so we are strengthening rather than replacing,” he added.

The minister highlighted that the Abuja–Kaduna section, handled by Infiouest International Limited, represents one of the most technically advanced road projects in the country, noting that over 300 units of heavy-duty equipment have been deployed to ensure timely completion.

Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, Umahi said Nigeria is transitioning from asphalt to rigid concrete pavements, a shift that will drastically reduce maintenance costs and enhance road lifespan.

“Wherever we have potholes, we don’t patch — we rebuild the entire section properly. Concrete is more sustainable for highways carrying heavy trucks,” he emphasised.

Umahi also cautioned engineers against the wasteful removal of structurally sound asphalt layers, calling it “technically unsound and economically reckless.”

He reiterated that asphalt, if milled and recycled properly, can serve beyond its original 25-year lifespan — a practice that aligns with global engineering standards.

The Minister of State for Works, Bello Mohammed Goronyo, praised Umahi’s practical approach, describing him as a “mentor to a new generation of engineers embracing quality and accountability.”

Officials from the ministry confirmed that regular inspections have improved contractor discipline and enhanced project quality, while the contractor, Joseph Aboue Jaoude of Infiouest International Limited, pledged to deliver a “world-class highway that meets international benchmarks.”

The 375-kilometre Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano Expressway, one of Nigeria’s most vital trade routes, has suffered multiple delays due to insecurity and funding gaps since its award in 2018.

Under Umahi, it has been redesigned for longer durability and reduced travel time.

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Once completed, the expressway will not only cut travel time by more than half but also improve safety, reduce vehicle operating costs and strengthen economic ties across northern Nigeria.