By Daniel Tyokua
The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has linked the safe landing of a Nigerian aircraft in distress at Ogwashi-Uku, Delta State, to President Bola Tinubu’s adoption of the concrete road initiative.
Through his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Francis Nwaze, Umahi said what could have become a tragedy has become a case study in the value of quality infrastructure.
Recall that a private aircraft, which reportedly failed to land at Asaba Airport on Wednesday morning, touched down on a concrete road still under construction in the Ogwashi-Uku area near the Delta State capital.
In a statement issued by Umahi’s media assistant, the ministry said the road provided a stable surface during the emergency landing, allowing the aircraft to come to a stop without loss of life.
It added that while roads are built for vehicles, the incident underscores how durable infrastructure can serve critical safety functions in unexpected situations.
The statement read: “The incident comes as the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu continues to promote the use of concrete pavement on major roads nationwide. Concrete roads are designed to be stronger and more durable, able to withstand heavy pressure over long periods.
“Under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Works, led by Senator David Umahi, several road projects across Nigeria are currently being constructed or reconstructed using concrete technology.”
The statement added that aviation authorities are investigating the Asaba incident, but for many Nigerians, it highlights a broader lesson: “Infrastructure is not just about transportation.
“Well-built roads support economic growth, improve connectivity, and enhance safety. In rare cases like this one, they can help prevent a bad situation from becoming a disaster.
“Sometimes, the true value of quality infrastructure is seen when the unexpected happens.”
