The Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), has commenced the repairs on the Anyigba-Ankpa-Otukpo road which traverses Kogi and Benue states.
The Managing Director of FERMA, Chukwuemeka Agbasi disclosed this when he paid a visit to the Onu Ankpa, Alhaji Abdulmalik Umar, after an inspection tour to the roads.
Agbasi, who was represented by FERMA’s Engineer in Kogi State, Muktar Abdulrahim, informed the traditional ruler of the mission to repair the road.
He said that the repairs were prompted by the complaints from road users over the poor state of the highway.
He added that the degradation of sections of the Itobe-Anyigba-Ankpa-Otukpo road was largely due to the high volume of heavy-duty vehicles plying the route.
“The road serves as a crucial link connecting the South-South, South-East and parts of Eastern Kogi State to Lokoja, and further to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
“Its economic significance cannot be overstated, as it serves as a vital artery for trade, connecting several commercial hubs and is also a centre for coal mining activities,” he said.
He noted that FERMA officials had in July 2024, carried out an assessment survey of the road, after which the management resolved to quickly begin the repairs.
“The road was constructed in the 1980s and the load it now bears far exceeds its original design capacity.
“With the decline of the railway system, heavy goods that would have been transported by train are now moved by trucks, placing more pressure on the road.
“Ankpa, a mining hub, attracts heavy-duty vehicles from within and outside Nigeria to transport coal, further straining the road.
“The use of a lateritic base has also contributed to the road’s rapid deterioration. Once cracks form and water seeps in, the damage worsens
“So, we are now introducing a stone base, which will be stronger and more durable,” he said.
Muktar assured that the repairs will improve safety on the road, reduce travel time, lower vehicle maintenance costs and minimise breakdowns.
He reaffirmed FERMA’s commitment to ensuring total maintenance of roads, delivering quality jobs, despite budget constraints.
Responding, the Onu Ankpa expressed gratitude to FERMA’s Managing Director and his team, for the agency’s concern for the people.
The traditional ruler described the intervention as timely, given the damage caused by heavy trucks and urged the agency to ensure the road received a lasting solution.
The monarch prayed for success in FERMA’s efforts.
The FERMA’s team also inspected the reinstatement of a washed-out culvert at CH.41+000 on the Okene- Adogo-Ajaokuta road in Kogi State, where work was currently in progress.
READ ALSO:Edo guber: PDP files petition against Okpebholo’s victory
