Posted by Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the leading social and cultural organization, released a statement on Sunday expressing grave worry about the House of Representatives’ decision to suspend and investigate cement technology.
The Honourable Khadija Ibrahim of Yobe State brought attention to potential inconsistencies in the Minister of Works’ new policy on the adoption of cement concrete pavement, prompting the House to act.
Ohanaeze did concede that the House of Representatives needs to guarantee technical specifications are met, that money is properly allocated, and that government initiatives are transparent and accountable.
The factional Secretary-General of Ohanaeze, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, has stated that the will and wellbeing of all Nigerians should always take precedence above the contract terms of a few contractors who put their own interests first.
Isiguzoro made the following proclamation: “The Minister of Works has consistently campaigned for the use of concrete technology in road pavement construction, citing its potential to boost the Nigerian economy and provide long-lasting durability with a life expectancy of over fifty years.” Minister Dave Umahi’s Cement Technology has been endorsed by President Tinubu and the Federal Executive Council (FEC) because of its many potential financial benefits.
Contractors who insist on utilizing asphalt should take note that the Minister has proposed an alternative. The asphalt roads built by these builders are guaranteed to last for 20 years, and the contractors must testify to this fact under oath.
With this policy in place, contractors who choose asphalt will have to face the long-term consequences and potential economic waste of their decision.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo is certain that using concrete technology while building roads is in Nigeria’s and its people’s best interests. The implementation of this novel strategy will improve Nigeria’s infrastructure and lead to a cascade of economic benefits for the country’s citizens, particularly in light of the current economic crisis.
Therefore, we urge the House of Representatives’ leadership to think about the consequences of their decisions far into the future. It is essential to put the hopes and dreams of Nigerians ahead of those of a handful of contractors who refuse to use more environmentally friendly and financially beneficial methods.