David Umahi, the Minister of Works, announced that the reconstruction of the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano road is projected to cost N761 billion. He made this revelation during a site inspection on Saturday.
Umahi reported that President Bola Tinubu has been briefed on the anticipated timeline for completion, indicating that sections 1, 2, and 3 will require 14 months to finalize.
For sections 1 and 3, which encompass a total of 118 kilometers, the budget stands at N252 billion, with 30 percent, approximately N60 billion, already disbursed by the president.
Section 2, covering about 72 kilometers and incorporating both reinforced concrete and flexible pavement over 15 kilometers, is budgeted at N507 billion. Here too, 30 percent has been paid, exceeding N150 billion.
In total, the combined investment for the road project leading to Kano is projected at N761 billion, a significant commitment that Umahi praised as a testament to the president’s dedication to infrastructure development.
This initiative has been branded as the “Rebuilding Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Road” under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Umahi expressed confidence that the roads constructed during this administration will endure for over a century, representing a lasting legacy for future generations and eliminating the need for future reconstruction.
He emphasized the importance of ensuring high-quality work, as directed by the president, who aims to achieve road standards comparable to those in Western countries.
Additionally, Umahi encouraged Nigerians, especially young engineers, to embrace emerging trends and innovations in road construction.
“Roads and bridges are vital indicators of our GDP growth, and the development of other economic sectors relies on the durability of these infrastructures,” he stated.
Minister of State for Works, Bello Goronyo, called on contractors to expedite their efforts to meet the project deadline, stressing the need to compensate for delays caused by the rainy season, as the public eagerly anticipates the timely completion of the project.
(NAN)
