Umahi Urges Tanker Drivers to Protect Nigerian Roads

David Umahi, the Minister of Works, expressed serious concerns regarding the damage caused by heavy-duty fuel tankers to newly constructed roads in Nigeria. During an inspection of the Aleto Bridge project in River State, he warned that the actions of tanker drivers pose a direct threat to the durability of national infrastructure.

Umahi stated that no road infrastructure is designed to withstand prolonged static loads from heavy vehicles, which can lead to destruction. The total cost of the Aleto Bridge project exceeds N230 billion, with N156 billion allocated for phase one and N83 billion for phase two.

He emphasized the importance of investing in road protection and expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work delivered by the contractor, RCC. Umahi also commended President Bola Tinubu for approving alternative funding mechanisms to ensure the project's continuity, despite limitations from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) until August 2025.

The Aleto Bridge project incorporates modern concrete pavement technology and solar-powered lighting, showcasing the federal government's commitment to human capital development.