The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to completing the remaining section of the Abuja-Kaduna road by the end of 2024, according to statements made by the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi. Despite previous assurances since the road contract was awarded on December 20, 2018, the government is determined to fulfill this promise.
Minister Umahi conveyed this commitment during a meeting with directors of the Ministry of Works in Abuja. He emphasized the readiness of the ministry to overcome contractual challenges and ensure the timely delivery of the project for the benefit of Nigerians.
Highlighting the specifics of the project, Umahi mentioned that there are approximately 1.7 kilometers left to be completed in two sections. The ministry is actively engaged in supervisory activities and is seeking expert advice on the actual designs for these sections.
Funding remains a critical aspect of the project, with Umahi acknowledging the financial constraints. The road project falls under the presidential development fund initiative sourced from recovered looted funds. Minister Umahi has discussed the project’s significance with the President, emphasizing its importance for Northern Nigeria.
However, challenges arise as the initial cost of the project increased from N165 billion to N655 billion after a review, and the contractor is currently requesting N1.35 trillion, a figure deemed unaffordable by the government. Despite these financial constraints, Umahi expressed his determination to find solutions, including exploring the possibility of using existing sub-grade and engaging Dangote for the first 40km under the tax credit scheme. He assured that, regardless of the challenges, the ministry is committed to completing the road within the year.
