In a significant development, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved a downward review of the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Road rehabilitation project, slashing the cost to N740.79 billion. This decision aims to optimize resources while enhancing road safety and infrastructure. Julius Berger, the contractor handling the project, will now have a revised scope that includes installing solar-powered streetlights and a 14-month deadline for completion.
The project, initiated in 2017 under former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, connects Abuja, Niger, Kaduna, and Kano states, facilitating the transportation of agricultural produce from the North to other parts of Nigeria. Despite initial progress reported by former Minister of Works Babatunde Fashola in 2021, the project remained incomplete when the administration ended in 2023.
New Minister of Works Dave Umahi revealed a N1.5 trillion debt accumulated by the previous administration on ongoing road projects, including this reconstruction. To address this, additional funds were allocated in early 2024, with N17 billion released and N33 billion pending to ensure adequate funding.
In August 2024, the Federal Government committed N20 billion monthly for the dualization of an 82-kilometer section of the highway, targeting completion within 14
The revised project details include a reduced budget of N740.79 billion, a completion deadline of 14 months, and the installation of solar-powered streetlights. Julius Berger will continue as the contractor, working on the dual carriageway connecting Abuja, Niger, Kaduna, and Kano states.
This development demonstrates the current administration’s commitment to infrastructure development and efficient resource management.
