Tinubu’s Concrete Road Averted Asaba Air Crash Tragedy —Umahi

The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s concrete road initiative helped to avert a tragedy after a Nigerian aircraft experiencing landing difficulties made a safe emergency touchdown on a concrete road near Ogwashi-Uku, Delta State.

Umahi in a statement he issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Francis Nwaze, on Thursday, said what could have become a tragedy has become a case study in the value of quality infrastructure.

THE WHISTLER recalls 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.

Umahi said the road provided a stable surface during the emergency landing, allowing the aircraft to come to a stop without loss of life.

He explained that while roads are built for vehicles, the incident underscores how durable infrastructure can serve critical safety functions in unexpected situations.

“The incident comes as the Federal Government under President Bola 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,” he said.

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”, it stated.