Minister of Works, Sen. David Umahi, has clarified that the Nigerian government has not banned the use of asphalt in road constructions.
According to Independent Newspaper Nigeria, Umahi made this statement during a meeting with contractors at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja on Thursday.
He said the aim is to control the rising cost of asphalt.
He also revealed that the government plans to complete150km of road in each of the36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Umahi emphasized that the intention is not to eliminate asphalt entirely, as some projects will still utilize it after2024.
“We have not banned the use of asphalt but it is to moderate the escalation of prices on asphalt. And in 2024 going forward, some projects will still be on asphalt, the shoulders that are on concrete and some will be fully on concrete.
“Nigerians would want to see how we can complete 150km in each of the 36 states and the FCT and you will see the total number of roads completed and that will be a good way to start. We are not talking about the palliative.
“Some of you close site from December 15 and reopen January 15. We will no longer allow contractors close site for a whole one month in 2024”, he said.
Speaking on plans to clear the N1.5 trillion project debts, he said the Federal Government has set up a verification committee to verify contractors’ certificates and recommend payments.
“I want to assure you that every verification made will be paid, we are going to have automated payment system. You are requested to come up with proof of how these debts are incurred”.
