ABUJA-KADUNA HIGHWAY 80% COMPLETE, EXPECTED TO OPEN IN APRIL
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By: Balogun Ibrahim
The Federal Government has confirmed that the long-delayed Abuja-Kaduna highway has reached 80 per cent completion, with 60 kilometres of the redesigned concrete pavement already delivered. Officials say the remaining sections are on track to be completed by the end of April.
The Federal Ministry of Works made the disclosure during an inspection tour as part of the ongoing National Media Tour, reaffirming the government’s commitment to fast-tracking one of Nigeria’s most strategic transport corridors.
The project, now managed by Infouest Nigeria Limited, was re-awarded after the termination of its previous contract with Julius Berger Nigeria PLC.
Chukwuma Kalu, Controller of Works on the project, described the highway as “the heartbeat of the nation,” emphasizing that its completion remains a top infrastructure priority.
Chukwuma Kalu explained, “The history of this project has been challenging. Issues with the former contractor, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, led to the termination of the contract, which was subsequently re-awarded to Infouest Nigeria Limited to ensure faster delivery.”
He added that the government redesigned the road from asphalt to Continuous Reinforced Concrete Pavement (CRCP) to enhance durability, quality, and longevity. The highway connects the North-Central and North-West regions to Abuja and serves as a key corridor linking Lagos to northern Nigeria.
Providing a progress update, Kalu said the project includes a 40.5-kilometre dual carriageway CRCP section (81 kilometres of combined lanes), a 17.3-kilometre asphalt section linking the Kano-Zaria road, and a 6.63-kilometre dual asphalt overlay in Kano State.
Chukwuma Kalu said, “Out of the 81 kilometres of CRCP, 60 kilometres are complete, with 21 kilometres remaining. We are confident of delivering before the end of April,” noting that construction teams are working day and night to meet the deadline.
Robert Turner, Senior Project Manager at Infouest Nigeria Limited, reaffirmed the company’s commitment: “We are fully dedicated to completing everything by the end of April. The highway will benefit the country economically, socially, and in terms of connectivity.”
The Abuja-Kaduna highway is one of Nigeria’s busiest federal roads, serving commuters, freight operators, and interstate travelers. Its redesign using rigid concrete pavement is expected to reduce maintenance compared to traditional asphalt surfaces.
In a related development, the 43.65-kilometre Maraba-Keffi Road reconstruction project, managed by China Harbour Engineering Construction Company, is currently 90 per cent complete and expected to finish by June 2026. The N73.8 billion project, under the Infrastructure Development and Refurbishment Investment Tax Credit scheme, includes site clearance, stone base laying, asphaltic binder and wearing courses, and reinforced concrete drainage.
Abdullahi Muhammed, Director of Press at the ministry, said the media tour underscores the government’s commitment to upgrading transport infrastructure nationwide.
“Infrastructure development remains central to the policy thrust of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Enhancing transportation is a priority,” he said, highlighting the Maraba-Keffi Expressway as a key gateway into the Federal Capital Territory from Nasarawa State and the North-Central region.
Both projects reflect renewed momentum in the government’s efforts to improve strategic road networks, boost safety, and stimulate economic activity across the country.
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