FG Pledges 14-Month Completion of Abuja-Kaduna-Kano Road Upgrade: What You Need to Know

By Achimi muktar

The Federal Government has announced a 14-month timeline to complete the rehabilitation and dualization of the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano road, a project poised to transform connectivity and safety in northern Nigeria.

During the inauguration of works on the Abuja-Kaduna section, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, reiterated the administration’s commitment to delivering the project swiftly.

“President Bola Tinubu is very committed and determined to ensure that this road from Abuja to Kano is completed in a record time of 14 months,” Idris stated, emphasizing the urgency of the project.

A Strategic Overhaul for Speed and Efficiency

The 375-kilometer stretch, divided into three segments, is undergoing extensive upgrades:

Section 1: Abuja to Kaduna

Section 2: Kaduna to Zaria

Section 3: Zaria to Kano

The rehabilitation includes scarifying the existing surface, embankment reinforcement, stabilized crushed rock layers, and reinforced concrete-lined drains.

The project was restructured after delays and cost escalations under the original contractor, Julius Berger. Minister Idris explained that the original three-year timeline was unacceptable, prompting a decision to divide the project into manageable segments for faster delivery.

Innovative Features for Longevity

Minister of Works, David Umahi, highlighted plans to integrate solar lighting and reinforced concrete technology into the road’s design, ensuring durability for 50 to 100 years. He also revealed plans to extend the project to include a link to Aminu Kano International Airport and an additional five kilometers on the Abuja-Lokoja axis.

Umahi acknowledged the current challenges road users face, such as cracks, potholes, and poor drainage. Emergency repairs are ongoing across four sections to alleviate hardship during construction.

The Julius Berger Saga: Delays and Cost Disputes

Initially awarded to Julius Berger for N710 billion, the contract faced significant delays and cost revisions. The Federal Government approved an increase to N740 billion, alongside a payment plan of N20 billion per month to expedite progress.

However, Julius Berger later requested a cost hike to N903 billion, citing operational challenges. The government rejected this request, leading to the termination of their contract. Minister Umahi criticized the inefficiencies, emphasizing that the new administration would not tolerate delays or escalating demands.

The Road Ahead

The Abuja-Kaduna-Kano road is not just a vital transportation corridor but also an economic lifeline for millions. With the Federal Government’s renewed focus, the project is set to redefine travel and commerce in the region.

As construction advances, Nigerians are hopeful that the road will be delivered within the promised timeframe, fulfilling a long-overdue commitment to improving infrastructure and quality of life in northern Nigeria.