In a bold move aimed at reviving one of Nigeria’s most vital transport corridors, the Federal Government has committed the sum of N777 billion towards the completion of the long-delayed Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano expressway. This landmark funding, announced by the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, marks a renewed push by the Bola Tinubu administration to deliver critical infrastructure projects that will boost connectivity and stimulate economic growth across Northern Nigeria.
The Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano expressway 700-kilometre dual carriageway, originally awarded to Julius Berger in 2018 for an estimated cost of N155.7 billion with a 36-month completion window, has faced multiple delays and cost escalations. Over six years later, less than half of the road had been completed, despite costs ballooning to over N600 billion. At the height of the stalled progress, the contractor reportedly revised the total project cost to N1.5 trillion—a figure the Federal Government rejected, opting instead to cap its commitment at N740 billion.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony on Sunday, Minister Umahi disclosed that a new contractor, Infiouest Construction Company, has now been awarded the reconstruction of section two of the project at the cost of N525 billion. The company will also complete sections one and three for a combined sum of N252 billion, with 30 percent of the funds already disbursed.
“The entire Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Road, totaling 700 kilometers, has been segmented for better project management,” Umahi explained. “While Julius Berger completed a substantial portion between Zaria and Kano, totaling about 240 kilometers, the remaining 282 kilometers will now be executed by Infiouest using concrete reinforced pavement.”
In addition to the main highway, Umahi revealed that the Tinubu administration has extended the project to include an extra 11 kilometers linking the road to Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano. This extension, he noted, will ease passenger and cargo access, enhancing regional trade logistics.
The new timeline for completion has been pegged at 14 months, a timeframe Umahi insists is realistic due to the technical capacity and proven competence of Infiouest. He emphasized that the concrete pavement approach being adopted will ensure long-lasting durability, minimizing future maintenance costs.
“This administration is committed to delivering projects of high quality. I have personally inspected the ongoing works and I am satisfied with what I have seen. With this N777 billion injection, we are confident of delivering a world-class road network that will stand the test of time,” the minister stated.
The event also featured Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, who represented President Bola Tinubu. In his remarks, Governor Sani highlighted the road’s significance not just to the region, but to Nigeria’s overall socio-economic development.
“This expressway is the lifeline of Northern Nigeria, connecting the capital with key commercial cities. Its completion will not only ease the movement of goods and people but also reduce travel time, boost trade, and enhance security along the corridor,” Sani stated.
He also recalled efforts made during his time in the 9th Senate, where he mobilized legislators and stakeholders to pressure the government into prioritizing the road’s completion. “We even held town hall meetings to highlight the urgency of this project. Today’s flag-off is a testament to President Tinubu’s commitment to addressing Nigeria’s infrastructure deficit.”
As part of its long-term sustainability plan, the Federal Government has also mandated the installation of solar-powered street lights across the entire length of the road, enhancing visibility and safety for night-time commuters.
The project is expected to generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs, offering much-needed economic relief to local communities along the route. The Minister and the Governor urged residents to cooperate fully with contractors, stressing that community support is key to timely project delivery.
Also present at the event were former Kaduna State Governor, Ramadan Yero, and former Senator Suleiman Hunkuyi, among other dignitaries.