The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has vowed to redesign the Lokoja-Ganaja-Ajaokuta road in Kogi State.
Umahi, who spoke during a courtesy call on the Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, at the Government House, Lokoja on Tuesday night, also revealed plans for long-lasting, low-maintenance concrete roads and assured swift progress on all federal road projects in the state.
The minister had earlier inspected bridge reconstruction at Gada-Biu, the Abaji section of the Abuja-Lokoja road, the Koto-Karfe bridge, Murtala bridge, Lokoja-Ganaja-Ajaokuta road, Lokoja-Okene road, and Lokoja-Kabba road.
He disclosed that the federal government was considering concrete road construction innovation which he said has low-maintenance cost and can last for over 50 years without maintenance.
The minister also disclosed that concrete roads are cheaper in terms of construction cost and the guarantee of construction materials.
He, however, commended Governor Yahaya Bello’s commitment to the people of Kogi State and his administration’s accomplishments across education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
The Minister expressed gratitude for the governor’s warm reception upon his appointment as Minister of Works and for his dedication to the betterment of Kogi State.
In a remark, the Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, expressed deep appreciation for the minister’s proactive approach in inspecting deteriorating federal roads within the state, which according to him, demonstrated a significant dedication to resolving pressing infrastructure issues.
Bello also expressed optimism regarding the Federal Government’s commitment to enhancing the country’s road infrastructure and commended Umahi for his visit to the state.
The governor highlighted the concern surrounding the condition of federal roads in Kogi State, emphasizing its strategic position as the connecting point between Northern and Southern Nigeria.
He acknowledged the hardships faced by commuters, the negative impact on trade and the economy, and the strain on transportation systems.
