By Chukwudi Nweje
Minister of Works, David Umahi, has reiterated that concrete technology remained the solution to road failures in Nigeria. He said it was also an innovation of the Renewed Hope agenda of the President Bola Tinubu-led administration.
He stated that concrete pavement had been proven to have the advantages of energy efficiency, low maintenance, and durability.
He also noted that concrete pavement is a good insulator and a choice for regulating temperature in both hot and cold environments.
The Minister, who stated this when the Governor of Kogi State, Ahmed Usman Ododo, paid him a courtesy visit in his office in Abuja, also noted that concrete technology becomes necessary given the peculiarity of the soil texture of some parts of the country.
He promised to encourage the governor in his vision to change the socio-economic narrative of the state, and urged him to show humility in leadership, and to write his name in gold by embarking on legacy projects that posterity would remember him for.
“You have demonstrated the capacity, ability, and humility to learn. Explore the successes of others and add them to your success. These are things that people do not know. I will encourage you in any way we can, through the magnanimity of Mr. President in your state, and we will also encourage you by this concrete road you desire so much support for.
“I’m happy that your Commissioner for Works is here, and you have materials around your place. “The Governor of Cross River was here yesterday, and he emphasised that the concrete roads are the way to go. I’m ready to get some people that can come and stay with you, one week or two weeks, and you will get it started. You will see that it’s cheaper, it’s better, it’s long-lasting and you have peace. In fact, in the last two months, Mr. President approved about 60 kilometres of concrete road in a session of Abuja -Lokoja Road. We will start it next month, and it is going to be fully on concrete,” Umahi told the governor.
Gov Ododo thanked the Minister for the impact and difference he has made on federal roads and assured that he would not let the people of Kogi State down.