The Federal Government on Thursday dismissed public concerns over the difference in reinforcement materials used in the ongoing reconstruction of the Ore–Ondo–Akure Road, assuring that the project fully complies with approved engineering specifications and international design standards.
Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, gave the clarification during an inspection tour of the project at Ajue community in Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State.
Recent viral videos and comments had raised alarm over the use of wire mesh on the road’s outer shoulders, with some alleging that reinforcement bars ought to have been used instead—just like on the main carriageway.
However, the Minister who was represented by Engr. Hussein Olajide, the Federal Controller of Works in Ondo State, explained that the distinction is a standard global engineering practice dictated by the different structural and functional demands of both sections.
“We also saw the viral video and the complainant specifically mentioned the use of wire mesh on the outer shoulders, suggesting that the same heavy reinforcement used on the carriageway should be applied there as well. But that’s a misconception. The main carriageway and the outer shoulder perform different functions, and so they are designed differently.”
According to him, the main carriagewaywhich carries heavy and continuous traffic from trucks, trailers, and articulated vehicles—is subjected to high bending and flexural stresses, hence the need for heavy reinforcement bars.
“To resist these forces and ensure long-term durability, 20mm longitudinal and 16mm transverse reinforcement bars are used on the main carriageway,” he explained. “But the outer shoulder is designed to handle only occasional traffic, like breakdowns, short stops, or diversions. Therefore, it doesn’t require the same level of reinforcement.”
He further clarified that the A142 wire mesh used on the outer shoulders is a standard and approved material, in line with Nigerian Highway Design Standards and global practices for rigid pavement construction.
“If you visit any of our single carriageway rigid pavement projects nationwide, you will find the same design pattern. It’s not peculiar to Ondo State or this particular project. The use of wire mesh on shoulders and reinforcement bars on carriageways is a universal highway design principle,” Olajide affirmed.
Engr. Olajide disclosed that the Ore–Ondo–Akure Road spans 86.43 kilometers with a 7.3-meter main carriageway and 2.75-meter shoulders on each side. Contrary to some public assumptions, he clarified that the project is not a dualization effort, but rather the reconstruction of a single carriageway with improved features, including fully paved shoulders for safety and traffic management.
“Before now, the road had no proper shoulders—only surface-dressed areas in a few spots. What we are doing now is building a modern, durable highway that meets global standards,” he said.
He added that the project, awarded in 2024 with a four-year completion period, is on schedule and may even be completed ahead of time due to the contractor’s commitment and adequate supervision by the Federal Ministry of Works.
Highlighting the government’s shift from asphalt to Continuous Reinforced Concrete Pavement (CRCP), Olajide said the new policy ensures longer lifespan, reduced maintenance costs, and better performance under heavy traffic conditions.
“Initially, the road was built using asphalt, but now all new federal roads are being constructed with CRCP technology, which can last 50 years or more if properly maintained,” he added.
He assured Nigerians that the Ministry is enforcing strict adherence to design and quality specifications, adding that adequate supervision teams are stationed on-site to monitor progress and compliance.
“The Ministry’s directive is clear: every contractor must work strictly according to approved designs. The road must meet the durability promise of 50 years and above”, disclosing that after completion, the road will feature clearly marked lanes and shoulders, including center lines, overtaking indicators, and shoulder demarcations, to enhance driver safety and traffic discipline.
“Drivers must understand that shoulders are not for regular driving. They are to be used only during breakdowns, diversions, or emergencies,” he cautioned.
Speaking on behalf of the contractor, Li Wei, Project Manager of GBC Global Civil and Building Construction Nigeria Limited, expressed satisfaction with the Ministry’s support and supervision, assuring that the project would be completed on schedule and delivered to the highest quality standards.
Fidelis David
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