The Federal Government has allocated ₦777 billion for the full reconstruction of the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Expressway, signaling renewed commitment to revamp one of Nigeria’s most critical highways.
This major infrastructure project includes the 14-month completion target for Section Two of the expressway, awarded to Infiouest Construction Company at a cost of ₦525 billion.
At the official flag-off ceremony held in Jere, Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Minister of Works, David Umahi, assured Nigerians that the road will be delivered on schedule using concrete-reinforced pavement technology for durability and long-term performance.
Umahi praised Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, for his unwavering support, noting that the completion of the 700-kilometre highway will drastically reduce accidents and ease traffic congestion, especially in Northern Nigeria.
“These 700 kilometers of roads will be completed under your leadership, thanks to President Tinubu’s directive,” Umahi said. “Not just completed — but reinforced with concrete pavement for strength and longevity.”
The breakdown of the reconstruction includes:
- Section 1 (Abuja axis)
- Section 2 (Kaduna stretch — now flagged off)
- Section 3 (Kano end — already largely completed by Julius Berger)
Umahi explained that of the total stretch:
- 240km (×2 lanes) was handled by Julius Berger (Zaria to Kano)
- The remaining 140km (×2 lanes)— now totaling 280km— will be completed under the new contract
Additionally, 11km of road leading to the Aminu Kano International Airport has been added to the scope of work. The entire stretch will also be equipped with solar-powered streetlights, following a presidential directive for improved road safety and security.
So far, the reconstruction of Sections 1 and 3 (118km in total) has been awarded for ₦252 billion, while the flag-off of Section 2 (82km × 2 lanes = 164km) is valued at ₦525 billion.
Representing President Tinubu at the flag-off, Governor Uba Sani described the project as “one of the most important roads in Nigeria,” vital for the economic lifeline of Northern states.
“This road has long been neglected. I recall how, as a senator in the 9th Assembly, I mobilized lawmakers and stakeholders to pressure the federal government for its completion,” he said.
Governor Sani added that President Tinubu’s administration has gone beyond promises, demonstrating real commitment to fixing infrastructure in the North.
In addition to the Abuja-Kano highway, the president has also ordered the resumption of two other long-stalled road projects in Kaduna:
- Eastern Bypass (abandoned for over 23 years)
- Western Bypass (Nnamdi Azikiwe Way)
“These roads will drastically reduce congestion in Kaduna city and cut down travel time for long-distance travelers,” Sani concluded.
This renewed push reflects the administration’s broader strategy of investing in long-overdue infrastructure upgrades across Nigeria.
