Handover and Commissioning of Road Construction and Maintenance Equipment Funded by Japan’s Grant Aid Under the Economic and Social Development Programme
Executive Summary
The Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) formally received and commissioned a suite of road construction and maintenance equipment funded by the Government of Japan under its Grant Aid FY2020-2, as part of the Economic and Social Development Programme. This initiative marks a strategic milestone in FERMA’s ongoing efforts to enhance operational capacity and improve the quality and sustainability of Nigeria’s federal road infrastructure.
Background
The commissioning event is the culmination of exploratory engagements initiated eight years ago between FERMA and Marubeni Corporation, a Japanese firm. These discussions focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation and exploring partnership opportunities to support Nigeria’s road maintenance objectives.
Recognizing the urgent need to build internal capacity for the recovery of failed road sections and to execute routine and periodic maintenance, FERMA pursued the acquisition of specialized equipment. This initiative aligns with the Agency’s strategic goal of maximizing asset utilization and improving the utility of Nigeria’s road infrastructure.
Equipment Overview
The equipment received under the grant includes:
- Road Stabilizer – SAKAI
- Asphalt Lorry – HANTA
- Vibratory Single Drum Roller – SAKAI
- Pneumatic Tired Roller – SAKAI
- Vibratory Tandem Roller – SAKAI
- Walk Behind Roller – SAKAI (24 units)
- Spare Parts for 2,000 Hours of Operation
The centerpiece of the equipment, the 3-in-1 road stabilizer, is designed for in-place base course construction and subgrade rehabilitation. This technology is expected to significantly improve the recovery of degraded road sections, offering cost and time efficiencies while promoting environmentally sustainable practices through the recycling of existing road materials.
Strategic Impact
The deployment of this equipment represents a major investment in FERMA’s operational capabilities. It supports the Agency’s mandate to maintain federal roads in good and safe condition and aligns with the infrastructure priorities of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This agenda emphasizes infrastructure and transportation as key enablers of economic growth.
FERMA personnel have undergone specialized training in mix design and equipment operation to ensure effective utilization. The equipment will be deployed to restore failed road sections, improve connectivity, and enhance the journey experience across Nigeria’s road network.
Acknowledgements
FERMA extends its sincere appreciation to:
- The Government of Japan for approving the grant aid application.
- Marubeni Corporation for its sustained partnership.
- The immediate past FERMA Managing Director, the Honourable Ministers of Works and Budget & National Planning, and other stakeholders whose support was instrumental during the application process.
- President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his visionary leadership and commitment to transforming Nigeria’s road sector.
Conclusion
The handover and commissioning of this equipment is a testament to FERMA’s commitment to innovation, collaboration, and excellence in road maintenance. It reinforces the Agency’s resolve to deliver safe, reliable, and sustainable road infrastructure for all Nigerians.