Nigeria Govt Approves N124bn for Roads Repair
The Federal Executive Council, FEC, yesterday, approved major contracts worth N124.983 billion for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of various roads nationwide as well as the procurement of mobile electricity substations.
Addressing newsmen after the FEC meeting yesterday, the Minister of Information, Labaran Maku, said among the road contracts approved by FEC is the second phase of the Apapa-Oshodi-Oworonshoki-Ojota expressway and service lanes in Lagos State.
Maku, who was joined by the Minister of Works, Mr. Mike Onolemenmen, explained that the repair of roads was of immense economic importance to the country and the sub-region.
He said: “Due to aging, the road had virtually collapsed and the damaging effects of heavy axle-load vehicles carrying goods to and from the ports. The drainage system has also collapsed.
“Council approved the reconstruction of Apapa-Oshodi Expressway Section 2 Phase II: Apapa-Oshodi-Oworonshoki-Ojota Expressway and Service lanes; Beach land junction.”
The Apapa road contract was awarded to Messrs Julius Berger Nigeria Plc at the cost of N14.989 billion with a completion period of 15 months.
Other road contracts approved by council were the rehabilitation of two roads under the Federal Roads Development Project, FRDP.
The rehabilitation of the roads, the Minister said, will improve road safety and reduce traveling time, vehicle operating cost and road user cost.
He said: “The rehabilitation of the roads will also greatly boost trade and economic activities along the routes, thereby contributing to poverty reduction and employment generation.”
