Reinforced concrete technology is being implemented by the Federal Government on the East-West road project, covering the South-south region of Nigeria. This decision follows warnings of possible protests from the Movement for the Survival of Ogoni People and former agitators in the Niger Delta due to delays in completing certain sections of the road.
A statement released in Abuja on Wednesday by Uchenna Orji, the spokesperson of the Minister of Works, David Umahi, emphasized the government’s commitment to preventing future failures in road segments. The adoption of reinforced concrete technology is expected to eliminate pavement issues and tackle years of neglect in the road infrastructure.
In a statement signed by Imeabe Saviour, the Public Relations Officer of MOSOP, it was highlighted that the incomplete state of the road has resulted in various accidents and loss of lives. In a previous statement, MOSOP expressed concerns over the deplorable condition of the East-West road in Ogoni territory despite the significant revenue generated.
During a recent inspection of road sections, including the Kaiama-Ahoada stretch in Rivers/Bayelsa states, Umahi commended the contractors working on relief culverts for their dedication to the project. He also praised the quality of work on the kilometer 15 section 3A of the East-West Road.
Umahi reassured that a lasting solution is in progress, with plans to elevate the road above flood levels and overlay it with 12-inch reinforced concrete. He encouraged local contractors to participate in the project and emphasized the collaboration with the Niger Delta Development Commission to manage floods.
Despite anticipated completion by December, Umahi urged road users to be patient. The government’s efforts to strengthen the road infrastructure are viewed as a significant stride in addressing the region’s infrastructure deficiencies.