The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to the timely completion of the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Expressway, setting a revised deadline of 14 months.
Speaking during an inspection visit to the project site in Tafa, Niger State, on Thursday evening, Idris emphasised the administration’s determination to deliver the road, which is a critical artery linking the Federal Capital Territory to Kano and other states.
The visit was attended by the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi; Chairman, Senate Committee on Works, Senator Mpigi Barinada; Chairman, House Committee on Works, Hon. Akinola Alabi; and other senior government officials.
Idris noted that the initial contract, awarded to Julius Berger Plc, was revoked due to prolonged delays and cost escalations. “Mr. President is extremely determined to see to the completion of this road and will not allow any contractor to hold us to ransom. This project will be delivered within the revised 14-month timeline,” he assured.
The Minister revealed that Julius Berger had proposed a three-year timeline and an increased contract sum from N797 billion to N1.5 trillion, prompting the government to reassign the project to a more efficient contractor.
The road has now been divided into three sections to accelerate construction.
“President Tinubu has rejected delays. This road must be completed to ease transportation, improve economic activities, and ensure safety. The Minister of Works has set a target, and Nigerians can hold the Ministry accountable. This administration is determined to see this project delivered,” Idris added.
In his remarks, the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, provided additional updates on the project, announcing the approval of a contract sum of N252.89 billion by the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP).
He stressed that the contract includes 10.6 kilometers of road leading to Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, an additional 5 kilometers towards Kogi State, and full solar light installation to prepare the road for concession under an operation and maintenance model.
“We are confident that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) will ratify this at its next sitting. This government is focused on delivering world-class infrastructure for Nigerians,” Umahi said.
