The Federal Minister of Works, Mr. Dave Umahi, has provided clarification regarding the purported ban on the use of asphalt in road construction by the Federal Government.
This information was obtained from a press statement released by the Ministry of Works, as reported by InfoStride News. The official statement, available on the ministry’s website, refutes claims that there is a blanket prohibition on asphalt in road development.
Umahi emphasized that, at no point, did the Ministry of Works issue a directive mandating the exclusive use of concrete pavement for road projects nationwide. Instead, a new policy has been established to provide guidelines on the use of both concrete and asphalt pavements in such projects.

Under this policy, contractors for ongoing projects are granted the flexibility to choose between continuing with asphalt or opting for a redesign with concrete, and this comes at no additional cost to the government. However, certain conditions must be met by the contractors:
1. **Use of Asphalt:** Contractors opting for asphalt must adhere to a 5% Variation on Price (VOP) in line with the signed contract agreement throughout the project. The signed contract is not subject to review, especially concerning bituminous items. The thickness of the asphalt pavement as designed must be strictly followed, and the design shelf life (at least 15 years) should be guaranteed through an insurance bond issued by a reputable insurance company in favor of the Federal Government.
2. **Use of Concrete:** Contractors choosing concrete must also comply with a 5% VOP and ensure a 50-year design shelf life using concrete grade 40.
Umahi noted that many ongoing road construction projects in the country still employ asphalt pavement in accordance with the new policy. However, some projects have been redesigned with concrete pavement, taking into consideration the terrain and with the full understanding of the contractors involved in those specific projects.
In essence, the Ministry of Works has clarified its stance on the use of asphalt and concrete in road construction, emphasizing a balanced approach that considers project-specific factors. The flexibility provided to contractors reflects a pragmatic approach, ensuring that the choice between asphalt and concrete aligns with the project’s requirements and the conditions outlined in the new policy. InfoStride News will continue to monitor developments related to this policy and provide updates as necessary.
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