The Ekiti State Ministry of Works has organised a training programme for civil engineers and planning officers on soil testing and stabilisation as part of efforts to enhance road quality and durability across the state.
The training, held in Ado-Ekiti, focused on the theme: “Soil Testing and Stabilisation for Road Construction.”
Speaking during the programme, an engineer with the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), Mr Joseph Adams, urged engineers and other stakeholders in road construction to prioritise soil testing as a critical factor in ensuring the durability and longevity of roads.
Adams explained that proper soil evaluation, including soil classification, plasticity charts and compaction curves, was essential in determining the suitability of soils for road construction.
He identified soil-related challenges in road projects as mechanical, chemical and other environmental factors, stressing that each category required specific stabilisation techniques.
According to him, effective soil stabilisation can be achieved through compaction, soil blending, chemical treatment, lime application, bitumen use, geotextiles and improved drainage systems.
He added that cement stabilisation, within a range of three to 10 per cent, plays a significant role in improving soil strength and stability.
Adams also outlined factors affecting soil stability and highlighted the benefits of proper soil treatment in achieving long-lasting road infrastructure.
In his remarks, the Director of Civil Engineering in the Ministry, Mr Bamidele Oke, said the training would serve as a morale booster for engineers and improve their performance on project sites.
He commended Adams for delivering what he described as an insightful and practical lecture on the subject.
One of the participants, Mr Tope Adelodun, a Deputy Director in the ministry, appreciated the management for organising the training, noting that it would equip stakeholders with the knowledge required for better project delivery.
Also speaking, the Director of Administration and Supplies, Mr Tunji Folorunso, said it was the second training programme organised for staff of the ministry within one month.
Folorunso assured that more capacity-building programmes would be organised before the end of the year to further strengthen the competence of ministry personnel.
