Tinubu Approves Full Reconstruction of Lagos-Ibadan Expressway with Concrete Pavement

Lagos-Ibadan express road

By Adeboye Prince Adetu 

Abuja, Nigeria – In a major infrastructure decision, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the complete reconstruction of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway using reinforced concrete pavement technology, replacing the previously used asphalt. The announcement was made by the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, following a Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting presided over by the President.

David Umahi

The decision comes after the Minister raised serious concerns about the deteriorating condition of the expressway, particularly the Ibadan-bound section. According to Umahi, the road, which is not yet five years old, has already begun to show significant signs of failure .

"I reported to FEC about the deteriorating situation on the completed Lagos-Ibadan, especially on the section that was completed by Julius Berger. The Ibadan axis... is failing very badly. If you go there, you will see it is rotting, it is folding, and it is very dangerous for vehicular movement," Umahi stated .

In response, President Tinubu directed the Ministry of Works to initiate due process for the reconstruction of the highway using reinforced concrete pavement .

The adoption of concrete technology is a deliberate shift in the government's infrastructure policy. The Minister of Works has consistently advocated for this change, arguing that concrete roads are more durable and cost-effective in the long run compared to asphalt .

"Show me any asphalt road in this country that has lasted 50 years. Even the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway is already failing in some portions. But the concrete road built in my state in the 1950s is still standing," Umahi remarked during a previous inspection tour .

The government aims to build roads that can last between 50 and 100 years with minimal maintenance, capable of withstanding the heavy truck traffic that frequently damages asphalt surfaces .

In addition to the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway reconstruction, the FEC also approved the Full Business Case for the operation and maintenance of the expressway in favour of Messrs Aspect Concession Company Limited under a modified Swiss Challenge approach . This move is part of the government's broader strategy to attract private sector participation in maintaining critical national infrastructure.

Other approvals from the meeting included the reconstruction of approximately 409 kilometres of federal roads under a tax credit scheme, valued at ₦1.8325 trillion, to be executed by the Dangote Group . The government also approved the completion of the abandoned Ibi Bridge in Taraba State, the construction of the 5.76-kilometre Lau Bridge, and the dualisation of an additional 400 kilometres of the East-West Road .

This latest decision is seen as a significant step by the Tinubu administration to address the nation's infrastructure deficit and ensure the longevity of key transport corridors that are vital for economic activities and national integration.