…warns contractor against delays, insists on Dec 2026 deadline
The Federal Government has directed contractors handling the expansion of the Abuja–Keffi Expressway to commence night construction work as part of measures to ease the daily gridlock on the busy route into the Federal Capital Territory.
Minister of State for Works, Mr Bello Goronyo, gave the directive on Thursday during an inspection of the project, stressing that the move became necessary as motorists endure worsening congestion, especially around the Nyanya–Mararaba axis.
He noted that while progress had been made on the Keffi-bound section, a three-kilometre stretch of the Abuja-bound carriageway remained a challenge due to flooding and waterlogging.
“We immediately directed the contractor handling this project to carry out palliative measures and create a passage to ease traffic flow. But this cannot be done during the day without worsening congestion. Therefore, the contractor must focus on night construction to deliver results quickly,” Goronyo said.
He warned that the government would not tolerate excuses or delays on the project, which spans 43.6 kilometres and costs ₦73.9 billion.
“The completion period of December 2026 is sacrosanct. This road is too important to Nigerians for any excuses. The contractor must fully mobilise and ensure timely delivery,” the minister added.
Funded under the Road Infrastructure Development and Refurbishment Investment Tax Credit Scheme, the project is being executed by China Harbour Engineering Company Limited with support from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited.
Project Manager, Mr Dong Hong, assured that the firm would meet the deadline.
“We are confident we can finish this project on schedule and deliver the highest quality. Much of our work is now being done at night to meet the target,” he said.
