President Bola Tinubu directed the use of durable concrete pavement to enhance longevity and reduce maintenance costs on the key route.
President Bola Tinubu approved the reconstruction of failed sections along the Ibadan axis of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. He specified concrete pavement for the works. The decision came during a Federal Executive Council meeting.
Minister of Works David Umahi briefed journalists after the meeting. He announced the full business case approval for the operation and maintenance concession of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway under a public-private partnership. Tinubu also directed immediate reconstruction of deteriorated portions on the Ibadan end.
Umahi explained that the move addressed ongoing challenges with the busy corridor. He noted that previous asphalt surfaces failed prematurely in several areas. Concrete pavement offers superior durability, he added.
The reconstruction targets failed sections to improve traffic flow and safety. It forms part of broader efforts that include 27 road projects worth over N3.9 trillion across 15 states. These initiatives span Adamawa, Benue, Cross River, Ebonyi, Ekiti, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, Niger, Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Plateau, Taraba and Yobe.
Transitioning to concrete technology aligns with the administration’s focus on long-lasting infrastructure. Umahi stated that such roads could last over 100 years, unlike asphalt surfaces that often degrade within decades. He pointed to historical examples of enduring concrete roads built in the 1950s.
The project aims to ease congestion on Nigeria’s busiest expressway, which links Lagos to Ibadan and beyond. Reconstruction includes protective shoulders, drainage improvements and pedestrian facilities where needed. Officials expect reduced long-term costs and fewer disruptions for commuters and businesses.
David Umahi emphasized that contractors must maintain high standards during execution. He ordered immediate corrective works on affected areas and tighter supervision to ensure quality.
This approval underscores ongoing federal commitment to upgrading critical transport links. Work will proceed in phases to minimize impact on daily traffic while delivering durable results.
