The Federal Government has confirmed that the long-delayed Abuja-Kaduna highway has reached 80 per cent completion, with 60 kilometres of the redesigned concrete pavement already delivered. Officials say the remaining stretch is scheduled for completion by the end of April.
The Federal Ministry of Works disclosed this during an inspection tour, part of the ongoing National Media Tour, reaffirming the government’s commitment to fast-tracking one of Nigeria’s most strategic transport corridors.
The project, now handled by Infouest Nigeria Limited, was re-awarded following the termination of its previous contract with Julius Berger Nigeria PLC.
Chukwuma Kalu, Controller of Works on the project, described the highway as “the heartbeat of the nation,” stressing that its completion remains a top infrastructure priority.
“As you know, the history of this project has been quite challenging. There were issues with the former contractor, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, and the project was terminated and re-awarded to Infouest Nigeria Limited to ensure faster delivery,” Kalu said.
He explained that the government redesigned the road from asphalt pavement to Continuous Reinforced Concrete Pavement to ensure durability, quality, and longevity. The highway links the North-Central and North-West regions to Abuja and serves as a critical corridor connecting Lagos to northern Nigeria.
Providing a progress update, Kalu said the project comprises a 40.5-kilometre dual carriageway CRCP section (81 kilometres combined lanes), a 17.3-kilometre asphalt section linking the Kano-Zaria road, and a 6.63-kilometre dual asphalt overlay in Kano State
“Out of the 81 kilometres of CRCP, 60 kilometres are complete, with 21 kilometres remaining. We are confident of delivering before the end of April,” he said, adding that construction teams are working day and night shifts to meet the deadline.
Robert Turner, Senior Project Manager at Infouest Nigeria Limited, reiterated the company’s commitment: “We give our full commitment to finishing everything by the end of April. It will serve the country economically, socially, and in terms of connectivity.”
The Abuja-Kaduna highway is among Nigeria’s busiest federal roads, serving commuters, freight operators, and interstate travelers. Its redesign using rigid concrete pavement is expected to reduce maintenance frequency compared to traditional asphalt surfaces.
In a related development, the 43.65-kilometre Maraba-Keffi Road reconstruction project, handled by China Harbour Engineering Construction Company, is currently 90 per cent complete and expected to finish by June 2026. The N73.8 billion project is under the Infrastructure Development and Refurbishment Investment Tax Credit scheme and covers site clearance, stone base laying, asphaltic binder and wearing courses, and reinforced concrete drainage.
Abdullahi Muhammed, Director of Press at the ministry, said the media tour highlights the government’s commitment to upgrading transport infrastructure nationwide.
“Infrastructure development remains central to the policy thrust of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Enhancement of transportation is a priority area under his agenda,” he said, emphasizing the importance of the Maraba-Keffi Expressway as a gateway into the Federal Capital Territory from Nasarawa State and the North-Central region.
Both projects signal renewed momentum in the government’s efforts to improve strategic road networks, enhance safety, and boost economic activity across the country.
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