Works Minister, Umahi, Receives SERMATECH's Plaudits For Concrete Road Initiative, Quality Construction

By Ebi COLLINS 

Civil engineering giants, SERMATECH Nigeria Limited, has showered encomium on the Honourable Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi for his penchant for excellence and quality service delivery, as well as his innovative concrete roads technology which is fast becoming a national example for road construction in Nigeria.

The construction giant conveyed the commendation through its head of media, Ento Edako, on the occasion of the stakeholders engagement on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Project, held on Sunday, in Calabar.

SERMATECH acknowledged the ongoing transformation in the infrastructural landscape of Nigeria, and expressed delight that Senator (Engr.) David Umahi is in the forefront of such laudable revolution.

"The Minister’s leadership has been instrumental in prioritizing the use of concrete for road construction, a decision that is demonstrably yielding positive results. Nigeria can achieve significant economic benefits and infrastructure improvements by embracing concrete roads," SERMATECH stated.

The company further dissected the Minister's impactful leadership under the following sub-themes:

Focus on Durability:

For years, a significant portion of our road network has been plagued by issues of rapid deterioration. Engr Umahi recognized the need for a more sustainable and long-lasting solution. Concrete roads boast a demonstrably longer lifespan compared to traditional asphalt, requiring less frequent maintenance and repairs. This translates to significant cost savings for the government in the long run, allowing resources to be directed towards further infrastructure development.

Safety and Efficiency:

The benefits of concrete extend far beyond durability. Concrete roads offer superior skid resistance, particularly in wet weather, leading to a significant improvement in road safety. Additionally, the smooth surface of concrete reduces rolling resistance, leading to improved fuel efficiency for vehicles traversing these roads.

Long-Term Cost Savings:

While the initial cost of concrete roads might be higher, their lifespan is considerably longer than asphalt. This translates to fewer repairs and replacements over time, leading to substantial cost savings in the long run.

Boosting Local Production:

Nigeria has abundant resources for cement production. By utilizing concrete for roads, we can stimulate the domestic cement industry, creating jobs and economic growth.

Empowering Local Expertise:

Building concrete roads requires skilled labor. This shift will encourage the development and utilization of local construction expertise, fostering a skilled workforce within Nigeria.

Promoting Local Content:

Concrete road construction relies heavily on locally available materials like cement and sand. This reduces dependence on imported materials like bitumen, strengthening the Nigerian economy.

Leading by Example:

Engr Umahi's commitment to quality goes beyond policy. They have actively fostered a culture of excellence within the Ministry, emphasizing the importance of using high-quality materials and adhering to rigorous construction standards. This focus on quality ensures that the roads built today will serve the nation for generations to come.

Building Momentum:

The positive impact of Engr Umahi's vision is undeniable. The increased use of concrete for road construction is already leading to a more robust and reliable transportation network. This, in turn, fosters economic growth by facilitating the efficient movement of goods and people, while empowering local businesses and workers.

The Honourable Minister's dedication to building a better future through focus on concrete and quality work is a shining example of effective leadership. As we continue to see the positive impact of these policies unfold, we can all be grateful for the vision and commitment of Engr Umahi.

Conclusively, SERMATECH also thanked the President Bola Tinubu-led administration for trusting in indigenous companies to deliver on the vision for infrastructurally developed nation.