The Federal Government has approved a total of N777 billion for the reconstruction of the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano road project, with a 14-month deadline set for the completion of section two.
The second section, awarded to Infiouest Construction Company, will be executed at a cost of N525 billion.
Speaking during the flag-off ceremony at Jere, Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, emphasized that the section would be constructed using concrete reinforced pavement and assured it would be delivered on schedule.
Umahi praised the Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, for his support on the project, stressing the importance of the road in reducing accidents and easing traffic congestion upon completion.
He stated: “Under you (Kaduna governor), this 700 kilometre of roads will be completed, courtesy of our dear president. Not only will it be completed, but it will be completed in concrete reinforced pavements.
“And we had sections 1, 2, 3. Section 1 is in Abuja, Nigeria and section 3 is in Kano. Substantially, the Kano section between Zaria and Kano has been completed by Julius Berger. And so the entire road, 350, was the 240 kilometres completed by Julius Berger.
“And the remaining 140 kilometres by 2. 240 by 2 is 480. 140 by 2 is 280. But the President is not only completing this 280.
“He has also added about 11 kilometres at the Kano section of the road to take the road to the Aminu Kano International Airport. And that work is going on now. Together with the remaining section in Kano State.
“The entire road, the President also directed that there should be solar light throughout. And so today, the President has awarded the completion of sections 1 and 3 a total of 118 kilometres for a total sum of N252 billion.
“And today, we are also flagging off section 2. 82 kilometres by 2, 164 kilometres. At a total cost of N525 billion.”
During the ceremony, Governor Uba Sani, representing President Bola Tinubu, expressed appreciation to the Federal Government and described the road as a crucial infrastructure for Northern Nigeria.
“We are here to commence the reconstruction of one of the most important roads in Nigeria. The Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano road is a vital artery for the people of Northern Nigeria,” he said.
He added: “I must point out here that it has been a long struggle pulling off today’s event. As a Senator representing Kaduna Central in the 9th Senate, I mobilized other Federal Legislators and Key Stakeholders to pile ceaseless pressure on the Federal Government to complete this important road.
“We even organized a Town Hall Meeting to collate and synthesize the views of stakeholders and ramp up pressure for action to be taken on the vital project.
“Let me state here without fear of contradiction that in words and action, President Tinubu has clearly demonstrated commitment to addressing the infrastructural deficits in the Northern region of Nigeria.
“The Abuja – Kaduna – Zaria – Kano Road has suffered total neglect over the years. Successive governments merely paid lip service to the reconstruction or rehabilitation of the road.
“Our people watched helplessly as the condition of the road worsened and innocent lives were lost. President Tinubu has now shown that with visionary leadership and commitment, we can make a difference in the lives of our people.
“Apart from the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Road reconstruction, Mr President has specifically directed that work on two other critical Federal Road projects be expedited: the Eastern Bypass, which has been in limbo for over 23 years, and the Western Bypass, Nnamdi Azikiwe Way.
“These projects will ease congestion within the city of Kaduna and significantly reduce travel time for long-distance commuters.”