The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has instructed the contractor handling the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano highway project, Messrs Infiouest International Limited, to expedite the completion of two major sections by expanding the number of active work zones between Jere and Kaduna and ensuring timely delivery of the project.
The directive followed a strategic meeting held in Abuja between the Minister, the Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani, and representatives of the construction company. Umahi emphasized that the project remains a top priority for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and revealed that his ministry now conducts weekly inspections to ensure adherence to quality standards and completion deadlines.
According to the Minister, Lot 1 of the project was awarded at a cost of ₦252 billion, while Lot 2, which spans 164 kilometers mainly within Kaduna State, costs ₦502 billion. He further disclosed that the total cost for completing all sections of the road from Abuja through Kaduna to Kano amounts to ₦754 billion.
Umahi directed the contractor to deploy additional resources across four sections to accelerate progress and assured Governor Uba Sani that both the quality and pace of work would be closely monitored.
“I want to assure you that the President is deeply committed to seeing this project completed. The same high standard used for the coastal highway is being applied here, and our brothers and sisters in the North will always remember President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his dedication to developing every part of this country,” Umahi stated.
Governor Uba Sani, while speaking after the meeting, expressed satisfaction with the project’s progress and optimism about its timely completion.
“I have no doubt that in the next two weeks, the contractor should record remarkable milestones, given the productive engagement we had with the Honourable Minister of Works and the contractor,” the Governor said.
He described the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano highway as a crucial transportation corridor linking the North West, North Central, and North East regions, noting that it connects about 12 states and serves as a key economic route for the country.
“What is more important for us here is that this road connects about 12 States from different regions. Once completed, it will bring immense relief and joy not only to Kaduna but also to millions across the country,” he added.
Governor Sani also praised Umahi’s professionalism and dedication, calling him a “rare gem” in public service.
“We are proud to have a Minister like Engr. David Umahi. I was impressed by his detailed understanding of every aspect of the project—from size to quality. If Nigeria had more Honourable Ministers like him, we would all sleep peacefully, knowing that projects are in capable hands,” he said.
What you should know
The Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano highway, valued at ₦754 billion, remains a priority for the Tinubu administration.
Minister Dave Umahi has ordered faster progress to ensure timely completion, while Governor Uba Sani praised the project’s significance and Umahi’s exceptional leadership in driving infrastructure development.
