The Federal Government has reiterated its resolve to deliver road infrastructure that will endure for generations, with a projected lifespan of up to 100 years. The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, gave this assurance during a follow-up inspection of the Abuja–Kaduna section of the Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano Expressway on Monday.
Speaking with journalists, Umahi explained that the Ministry has adopted advanced engineering methods designed to eliminate recurring road failures and reduce long-term maintenance costs. He maintained that the new strategy prioritises milling and strengthening existing road foundations instead of the traditional practice of removing asphalt layers and replacing them with laterite.
According to him, the existing subgrade on aged highways often possesses superior load-bearing strength due to years of compaction under heavy traffic. Umahi argued that conservative engineering approaches must give way to global best practices that guarantee more durable infrastructure.
“Our focus is sustainability. We are building roads that must stand the test of time, between 50 and 100 years. The goal is to save public funds and protect the nation from avoidable waste,” the Minister stated.
He praised the contractor, Infiouest International Limited, for demonstrating capacity and maintaining quality standards on what he described as one of the most advanced road designs in the country. He disclosed that the current method includes treating pothole-affected areas with a stone base, reinforcing critical sections with concrete, and introducing concrete shoulders to prevent edge failures.
Engineers and contractors were cautioned against needless excavation of stable asphalt layers, with Umahi noting that properly recycled asphalt can exceed its 25-year design life.
The Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammed Goronyo, Esq., reinforced the Ministry’s position, stating that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda places strategic emphasis on modern road infrastructure that supports national development. He commended Umahi’s hands-on supervision style, which he said is already inspiring a new generation of engineers across project corridors.
Senior officials and stakeholders on the project team also expressed confidence in the progress achieved so far. Engr. Olufemi Adetunji, Director of Highways (Special Projects, North), linked the pace of delivery to continuous oversight from the Ministry. Chairman of Infiouest International Limited, Mr. Joseph Aboue Jaoude, disclosed that over 300 units of equipment have been deployed to accelerate construction.
Presidential aides on Community Engagement for the North Central and North West zones, Dr. Abiodun and Hon. Abdullahi Tanko Yakasai, applauded the administration’s renewed commitment to nationwide road transformation, describing the project as a visible sign of efficient service delivery.
The Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano Expressway is among Nigeria’s most critical transport corridors, handling significant commercial and passenger traffic across the northern region. The Ministry insists that its upgraded design will ensure durability, safety, and long-term economic returns for the nation.
