By Jabiru Hassan
In a monumental step for Nigeria’s infrastructure and economic development, the Minister of Works, Senator (Engr) David Nweze Umahi, has officially launched toll operations on the 227.2km Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Lafia-Makurdi road corridor.
Speaking at the ceremonial flag-off, Minister Umahi, representing the Federal Government and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, extolled the importance of this project in enhancing the economic and social vitality of Nigeria.
“On behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, I welcome you to this landmark event in the history of our Nation’s infrastructure development,”
“Today, we embark on a journey that will preserve our infrastructure for the benefit of present and future generations,” he remarked.
The Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Lafia-Makurdi road corridor, a vital artery for trade, national security, and mobility, will now be subject to toll collection under a partnership agreement with China Harbour Operations and Maintenance Company Ltd (CHOMC) and Catamaran Nigeria Ltd.
This collaboration is a product of the Highways Development and Management Initiative (HDMI), a strategic move designed to address the chronic problem of deteriorating roads in the country.
Minister Umahi emphasised that the road serves as an essential conduit for the central and northern regions, linking critical zones that contribute to national growth.
“This corridor is crucial for Nigeria’s economic, social, and strategic development. It enhances trade, mobility, national security, and plays a vital role in urbanization and national cohesion,” he stated.
He further highlighted that this initiative is a testament to the government’s commitment to improving road infrastructure, with toll revenues aimed at repaying loans from the China Exim Bank used to fund the road’s rehabilitation.
The road, having been rehabilitated through a preferential credit loan from China Exim Bank, is now poised for maintenance and expansion through toll operations.
“The Federal Government, under the previous administration, executed a 25-year Toll, Operate & Maintain Concession Agreement in 2023 with CHOMC and Catamaran Nigeria Ltd. This agreement marks the first of nine road corridors slated for concessioning under the HDMI Phase 1,” said Umahi.
The move is not merely a technical upgrade but a step towards economic sustainability.
“The collection of tolls will generate much-needed revenue for the maintenance and expansion of our roads. This initiative will enhance our transport network, promote economic growth, create jobs, and develop urban and rural areas across Nigeria,” Umahi explained.
In his closing remarks, Umahi made it clear that tolling operations are central to realising a more efficient and resilient road transport system in the country.
“Toll operations are a pivotal step towards building a self-sustaining and interconnected infrastructure, supporting the ease of movement that fuels the economy,” he added.
