The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has dismissed circulating claims that the ongoing expansion of the Ore–Ondo–Akure highway is being carried out with substandard materials and does not meet international construction standards.
Umahi assured that there is no cause for concern, noting that the 86.43-kilometre project strictly adheres to approved engineering designs and specifications. He emphasized that the structural integrity of the pavement remains uncompromised and fully aligned with international best practices.
His clarification follows a viral video in which a content creator alleged that contractors were using wire mesh instead of heavy iron rods for reinforcement on parts of the road.
Expressing satisfaction with the quality of work done so far, Umahi stated that upon completion, the road will have a lifespan of more than 50 years. He reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to building durable, safe, and cost-effective road infrastructure nationwide.
Represented by the Controller of Works in Ondo State, Olajide Hussein, during an inspection of the Ajue corridor of the project in Odigbo Local Council Area, Umahi explained that the use of wire mesh on the outer shoulders is a globally accepted practice.
“We also saw the viral video, and the complainant specifically mentioned the use of wire mesh on the outer shoulders and suggested using heavy reinforcement instead,” he said. “However, the use of A142 wire mesh on the outer shoulder is a standard practice both in Nigeria and internationally. We use heavy reinforcement on the carriageway to handle flexural stresses, while lighter wire mesh is sufficient for the shoulders since they carry less load.”
He further clarified that this design approach is consistent across all single carriageway rigid road projects nationwide, adding that it is not unique to the Ore–Ondo–Akure highway or Ondo State.
