The Federal Government, through the Minister of Works, David Umahi, has instructed contractors handling the N761 billion Abuja-Kaduna-Kano Road to strictly follow the project timeline, emphasizing milestone completion over relying solely on payment certificates.
Umahi stated, “We can’t stay in the office and know what is going on on the field. Site inspection, sharing ideas are key to the success of any engineering project.”
During an inspection tour of sections 1, 2, and 3 of the road on Saturday, Umahi highlighted the use of reinforced concrete and flexible asphalt pavement to ensure durability and long-term functionality. He added, “We want to commend the contractors and we also want to frown seriously at the pace of work because my integrity is at stake if we don’t complete the project in 14 months.”
Sections 1 and 3, covering a total of 118 kilometers, are valued at N252 billion, with 30% of the funds already disbursed, while Section 2 spans 72 kilometers, including 15 kilometers of flexible asphalt, costing N507 billion with over N150 billion already paid. Umahi said, “The President has been fully briefed, and this project is a priority initiative for his administration, aimed at boosting connectivity, security, and economic growth across Northern Nigeria.”
He further expressed confidence that the road, once completed, would leave a lasting legacy. “We tagged the project as rebuilding Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano road by President Bola Tinubu. He has so much passion that the road be completed and he’s funding it as a priority project,” Umahi added, urging contractors to accelerate work while encouraging young engineers to study the modern construction techniques being applied on the project.
