Full Details: Nigerian Parliament Suspends Use of Concrete in Road Construction

Full Details: Nigerian Parliament Suspends Use of Concrete in Road Construction.

In a surprising development, the Nigerian parliament has decided to suspend the utilization of concrete for road construction projects across the nation.

This significant decision was revealed in the House of Representatives order paper obtained by the Peoples Gazette.

The suspension proposal was introduced by Yobe state legislator, Khadija Bukar Ibrahim. Ms. Ibrahim expressed deep-seated concerns regarding the use of “rigid/cement concrete pavements,” citing their “significant technical limitations and constraints.”

She emphasized the necessity for a thorough investigation into the adoption of concrete technology for road construction in Nigeria. This investigation should encompass an assessment of the technology’s comparative advantages and disadvantages concerning asphalt, a move that may necessitate alterations in technical specifications and contractual arrangements due to ongoing road projects initiated before David Umahi’s ministerial appointment.

In light of the compelling points raised by Ms. Ibrahim, the House has called upon the Federal Ministry of Works to temporarily suspend the widespread adoption of cement concrete for road construction.

This suspension is to remain in effect until the conclusion of the investigation, indicating a potentially significant shift in the approach to road construction projects.

This decision may be seen as a setback for the Minister of Works, Mr. Umahi, who had strongly advocated for the use of cement concrete in road construction. He had also claimed the backing of President Bola Tinubu in this matter, asserting that no amount of opposition, whether internal or external, could alter this direction as a response to dissenting road contractors.

Furthermore, the House has assigned specific committees, including those responsible for works, environment, finance, and judiciary, to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the merits and demerits associated with the use of cement concrete and asphalt for road construction. Their findings are expected to be reported back to the House within three weeks, providing a clearer understanding of the future of road construction in Nigeria.

The choice between cement concrete and asphalt for road construction

The choice depends on various factors and the specific needs of a project. Both materials have their merits and demerits. Here’s a comparison:

*Cement Concrete Roads:*

*Merits:*
1. *Durability:* Concrete roads are highly durable and can last for decades with minimal maintenance.
2. *Low Maintenance:* They require less frequent maintenance compared to asphalt.
3. *Longevity:* Concrete can withstand heavy traffic and harsh weather conditions.
4. *Environmental Benefits:* Concrete is recyclable and can have a lower environmental impact if constructed using sustainable practices.

*Demerits:*

1. *Higher Initial Cost:* Concrete roads are often more expensive to build than asphalt.
2. *Longer Construction Time:* The curing time for concrete can lead to longer construction periods.
3. *Rougher Ride:* Concrete roads can be less smooth, leading to a rougher ride for vehicles.

*Asphalt Roads:*

*Merits:*

1. *Lower Initial Cost:* Asphalt is generally cheaper to install compared to concrete.
2. *Quick Construction:* Asphalt roads can be constructed more quickly due to shorter curing times.
3. *Smooth Surface:* Asphalt provides a smoother ride, which can reduce vehicle maintenance costs.
4. *Easy Repairs:* Asphalt can be easily repaired and resurfaced.

*Demerits:*

1. *Less Durable:* Asphalt roads have a shorter lifespan and may require more frequent maintenance and resurfacing.
2. *Susceptible to Weather:* Asphalt can soften in extremely hot weather and become brittle in cold climates.
3. *Environmental Impact:* The production and maintenance of asphalt can have a higher environmental impact due to the need for petroleum-based materials.

*Conclusion:*

The choice between cement concrete and asphalt for road construction should be based on a careful evaluation of factors such as traffic volume, climate, available budget, and expected maintenance requirements.

In general, concrete is a better choice for high-traffic areas where durability is crucial, while asphalt may be more cost-effective for lower-traffic roads.

Hybrid approaches, such as using concrete for critical sections and asphalt for others, are also common.

Ultimately, the decision should be based on the specific needs and constraints of the project.