President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially flagged off the long-awaited reconstruction of the final phase of the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano highway, a crucial transportation corridor in Northern Nigeria. Represented by Minister of Works, David Umahi, at a ceremony in Jere, Kagarko LGA, the President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to completing the 700-kilometer stretch within 14 months.
The newly awarded contract follows the termination of the initial agreement with Julius Berger, replaced by a firm described as “tested and proven to be competent.” The road will feature concrete pavement, solar-powered lighting, and CCTV surveillance throughout its length.
Key Highlights
– Length: 700 km
– Concrete-reinforced pavement similar to Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway
– 11 km added at Kano end to link Aminu Kano International Airport
– N252 billion (30%) of the contract cost already disbursed
– Sections 1 and 3 (118 km total) prioritized for early completion
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna, in his remarks, emphasized the road’s strategic importance, calling it “the busiest in the North and second in Nigeria.” He hailed the reconstruction as a potential economic catalyst, creating jobs and enhancing security.
The Governor recalled persistent efforts made during his time in the Senate to push for the road’s rehabilitation, and praised President Tinubu for acting decisively. He also credited NSA Nuhu Ribadu for improving security through the Kaduna Peace Model, allowing safer travel on the previously dangerous route.
Other Presidential Directives
President Tinubu has also instructed that other major infrastructure projects—including the Eastern and Western Bypasses in Kaduna—to be expedited.
