…Says road will be built to last between 50 to 100 years
By Seun Adams
The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, has reiterated Federal Government resolve through the Ministry for the completion of the rehabilitation of Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano dual carriageway project within 14 months.
The project, the Minister underscored is crucial to improving Nigeria’s infrastructure and ensuring better connectivity across the northern region.
Umahi, was accompanied on the inspection by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammad Idris, the Chairmen, Senate and House of Representatives Committee on Works, Senator Barinada Mpigi and Hon. Akin Alabi, respectively, and other members and the Permanent Secretary, Engr. Adebiyi Olufunso hinted of government’s firm resolve to complete the road in record time.
On why Federal Government sidestepped Julius Berger on the project, he added that the contract has been revoked and taken away from the initial contractor, Messrs Julius Berger (Nig.) Ltd. due to irreconcilable differences like attempting to extend the project timeline by an additional 3 years, deeming it as unacceptable.
He pledged that the road would be completed in time, ensuring that it meets the nation’s urgent infrastructural needs, even as he stressed that the project has been broken down into 3 manageable segments, aimed at expediting it, as well as guaranteeing quality and timely completion.
He added that to underscore the importance of the road, palliative works are presently being carried out on the failed sections from Abuja to Kaduna, pending the re-award of the contract. The aim is to achieve zero pothole on the alignment.
While assuring Nigerians that any delays or hindrances would not be tolerated, as all parties are in sync with the goals of completing the road on schedule.
The Minister said the road will be built to last between 50 to 100 years, making it a lasting legacy.
Additionally, according to the Minister, the project will include an extension of ten (10) kilometres at the Kano end and another five (5) kilometres at the Abuja end, making sure that no failed alignment hinders the connection.
The Minister’s directive to complete the road within 14 months has been backed by the full cooperation of members of the National Assembly, and all stakeholders are working collaboratively toward achieving this milestone.
He reiterated that the political aspect of the project should be set aside, focusing solely on delivering a world-class highway for the benefit of Nigerians.
He added that the Renewed Hope Administration of President Bola Tinubu, is determined to complete the project without any further delay.
“He has directed that the suffering of road users on this alignment be brought to an end and we are committed to doing that,” said the Minister.
Speaking on the project, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, stated that the inspection will be conducted periodically to monitor progress, as well as provide updates to citizens.
He stressed that the team leading the project comprised highly skilled professionals and that he was confident that the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano road would be a great success.
Idris, stated that the President remains steadfast in his commitment to improving the nation’s infrastructure and ensuring timely completion of critical projects like the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano highway rehabilitation, which will significantly enhance transportation, trade, and economic activity in Nigeria.
On their part, the Chairmen of the Works Committee of the two chambers of the National Assembly (NASS) pledged support for the project, in terms of adequate budgetary provision and oversight functions for the benefit of all Nigerians.
