By Angela Atabo
Civil engineering professionals have warned that poor road maintenance and weak infrastructure investment portend danger for nation’s development.
They gave the warning during the 25th anniversary celebration of the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers (NICE) on Friday in Abuja.
The experts, who examined infrastructure’s role in national development, urged governments to prioritise resilient infrastructure and professional standards.
NICE National Chairman, Tokunbo Ajanaku, said resilient infrastructure remains fundamental to Nigeria’s economic growth and sustainable national progress across all sectors.
“The whole idea of NICE at 25 is to speak to the further development of Nigeria through resilient infrastructure.
“Without infrastructure, there can be no progress,” Ajanaku said,
He described infrastructure as the bedrock of development, stressing that roads, aviation, transportation, telecommunications and ICT depend on quality engineering.
Ajanaku also urged young engineers to embrace continuous learning, diligence and integrity, saying the profession remains critical to Nigeria’s future growth.
Keynote speaker, Luper Nyirhemba of Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA), identified inadequate funding as the biggest challenge confronting effective road maintenance nationwide.
“The issues relating to maintenance basically revolve around funding,” Nyirhemba said, urging sustainable financing for road infrastructure.
He said maintenance planning should begin during project design through lifecycle costing to ensure roads remain functional throughout their intended lifespan.
Nyirhemba described civil engineering as one of society’s most impactful professions, responsible for roads, bridges, dams, water supply, housing and healthcare infrastructure.
Immediate past NICE Jos Chairman, Dr Beedee Bott, stressed that routine maintenance is essential to preserving Nigeria’s road infrastructure and preventing costly deterioration.
“We must not allow roads to deteriorate before taking action,” Bott said, noting regular maintenance improves safety, mobility and reduces rehabilitation costs.
Former NICE Chairman, Dr Aishatu Umar, urged governments and developers to engage qualified civil engineers and ensure professional supervision of construction projects.
She said proper reinforcement and concrete mix are vital to quality construction, while applauding NICE’s leadership as the institution marked its silver jubilee.NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi