The Federal Government has committed the sum of N777 billion towards the completion of the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Expressway, a vital 700-kilometre corridor that connects the Federal Capital Territory to Kano State.
Announcing the renewed push for completion at a formal flag-off ceremony on Sunday, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, revealed that the funds would be directed at the reconstruction of the remaining 282 kilometres of the road. Umahi disclosed that the government has awarded the crucial Section Two of the project to Infiouest Construction Company at a contract sum of N525 billion, with a firm 14-month completion timeline.
Originally awarded to Julius Berger in 2018 at a cost of N155.7 billion, the project was slated for completion within three years. However, after significant delays and cost escalations—eventually climbing to over N600 billion—the contractor demanded a staggering N1.5 trillion, prompting the government to revoke the contract, capping its payment at N740 billion.
Umahi confirmed that Sections One and Three, totaling 118 kilometres, have also been re-awarded to Infiouest Construction for N252 billion, with 30 percent of the total cost already disbursed as mobilization. He assured that the reconstruction, which features concrete-reinforced pavement, would be completed with speed and adherence to quality standards.
“The company is trusted and competent,” Umahi stated. “The work has already started, and I have personally inspected it. I have no regrets recommending them.”
He elaborated that Section One is situated within Abuja, while Section Three falls within Kano. According to him, the portion between Zaria and Kano, roughly 240 kilometres, has been substantially completed by Julius Berger. The remaining stretch, around 280 kilometres, will now be handled by Infiouest.
“President Tinubu didn’t just approve the completion of the 280 kilometres,” Umahi said. “He added another 11 kilometres to extend the road directly to the Aminu Kano International Airport. That portion is already under construction.”
In addition to the physical road infrastructure, the project will incorporate solar-powered street lighting along the entire stretch, in line with the administration’s goal of modern, energy-efficient public works.
Commending the efforts of Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, Umahi praised his strategic leadership and support in ensuring the project’s revival.
“You’ve secured nearly a trillion naira for your people,” the minister told the governor. “You must share your strategy with other governors—especially in the Southeast. Under your leadership, this massive project will be completed, and in concrete.”
Umahi also acknowledged the governor’s efforts in unifying Kaduna State and working with the National Security Adviser to improve security in the region.
Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the ceremony, Governor Sani hailed the road as a game-changer for Northern Nigeria. He described it as an infrastructure that would catalyze economic growth, create jobs, and improve the socio-political and cultural landscape of the region.
“We’re witnessing the start of something historic,” Sani said. “This road has suffered years of neglect. As a senator in the 9th Assembly, I led efforts to pressure the Federal Government for its completion. Today marks the beginning of a new era.”
The governor added that the expressway will not only ease transportation and trade but also enhance security along one of Nigeria’s most critical roadways.
“I urge all communities along the corridor to cooperate fully with the contractors,” he said. “Your support is key to delivering this project on time and to standard.”
Dignitaries at the flag-off included former Kaduna State Governor, Ramadan Yero, and former Senator Suleiman Hunkuyi, among others.
