In Nigeria, a low-cost engineering intervention uses waste tyres to protect the access road at the Lake Geriyo Irrigation Project from seasonal erosion, introduced by the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at the Upper Benue River Basin Development Authority, Dr Mahmud Sanusi Mohammed
Reusing Waste Tyres to Protect the Road
The measure follows an inspection visit by Dr Mohammed to assess infrastructure challenges at the site, including repeated road damage during heavy rainfall. Seasonal runoff has previously led to sections of the access route being washed away, disrupting movement to and from the irrigation facilities.
In response, the authorities in Nigeria have begun implementing a reinforcement system that uses waste tyres filled with crushed stones and gravel, arranged in an interlocking configuration to form a stabilised structure designed to support erosion control and improve drainage.
According to the officials, the system aims to reduce the force of surface water runoff, strengthen the road base and prevent scouring and material displacement during the rainy season. By absorbing and redirecting water flow, the structure aims to improve the access road resilience under adverse weather conditions.
Speaking to Radio Nigeria, Dr Mohammed said the ongoing work reflects the management’s commitment to practical, field-driven solutions to protect critical infrastructure and support sustainable irrigation operations across the region.
