The Federal Government has announced that a total of ₦777 billion will be used to complete the ongoing reconstruction of the 700km Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Road.
Speaking at the official flag-off ceremony on Sunday, Minister of Works David Umahi said that 282km of the project remains unfinished and will be completed using this allocation. The government has also set a 14-month deadline for completing Section Two of the road, now awarded to Infiouest Construction Company at a cost of ₦525 billion.
Originally awarded to Julius Berger in 2018, the project was initially valued at less than ₦156 billion with a 36-month timeline. However, the cost ballooned to over ₦600 billion, and only about 50% of the road was completed over six years. When the contractor proposed a new price of ₦1.5 trillion, the federal government canceled the contract, stating it would only pay ₦740 billion.
Umahi explained that President Bola Tinubu has now re-awarded Sections 1 and 3, covering 118km, to Infiouest Construction for ₦252 billion, with 30% of the funds already released.
The reconstruction will use reinforced concrete pavement to ensure durability. Umahi praised the contractor’s competence, noting that much of the Zaria-Kano section, about 240km, has already been completed by Julius Berger, while the remaining 280km and an additional 11km to Aminu Kano International Airport will now be handled by Infiouest.
He also revealed that the President directed the installation of solar street lights along the entire stretch of the road.
Umahi commended Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani for his dedication to the project, acknowledging his role in securing close to ₦1 trillion in funding. He joked, “You have to give me the magic so I can tell the South-East governors to adopt your style.”
Governor Sani, who represented President Tinubu at the event, said the project will drive economic growth, create jobs, and improve security in Northern Nigeria. He described the road as a “vital artery” and recalled his efforts as a senator to pressure the government to prioritize the project, including organizing a town hall meeting to mobilize public support.
“The Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Road has long been neglected,” he said. “Now, with President Tinubu’s commitment, we are seeing real progress. This project will benefit communities, boost local economies, and enhance regional security.”
The event was attended by several dignitaries including former Kaduna State Governor Ramadan Yero and ex-Senator Suleiman Hunkuyi.