FG Approves N777bn to Fast-Track Completion of Abuja-Kaduna-Kano Road
The Federal Government has allocated a total of N777 billion to complete the long-awaited reconstruction of the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano road. This major highway project, covering about 700 kilometres, has seen delays and cost adjustments over the years. With this fresh funding and a new approach, authorities have set a 14-month deadline to finish the second section of the road, now handled by Infiouest Construction Company at a contract sum of N525 billion.
Minister of Works, David Umahi, during the flag-off ceremony on Sunday, confirmed that the budget would be directed at completing the remaining 282 kilometres of the road. Originally awarded to Julius Berger in 2018, the road project was initially valued at less than N155.7 billion with a planned completion time of 36 months. However, due to rising costs and project slowdowns, the contract value increased to over N600 billion, and eventually reached N1.5 trillion as proposed by the contractor. The government, however, declined to pay more than N740 billion, leading to the revocation of the original contract.
Umahi explained that President Bola Tinubu had now approved the reconstruction of Sections 1 and 3—spanning 118 kilometres—for a sum of N252 billion, with 30 percent already paid to Infiouest. He expressed confidence in the new construction company, stating that the ongoing work would be executed using reinforced concrete pavement, ensuring long-term durability.
The Minister also praised the progress made so far, noting that Julius Berger had already completed 240 kilometres between Zaria and Kano. The remaining parts—estimated at 280 kilometres—are now being handled under the new arrangement. Additionally, the president ordered an extension of the project by 11 kilometres to connect the road to the Aminu Kano International Airport, with installation of solar-powered streetlights along the route.
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, who represented President Tinubu at the event, described the road as vital for Northern Nigeria’s development. He recounted the efforts made during his time as a senator to mobilize support for the completion of the road, including organizing town hall meetings and lobbying the government.
He commended President Tinubu for prioritizing the needs of the region and highlighted the broader impact of the road, including job creation, economic stimulation, and improved security. The governor also called on communities along the highway to support the contractors for timely project delivery.
Also present at the ceremony were former Kaduna State Governor Ramadan Yero and other key stakeholders including ex-senator Suleiman Hunkuyi.
