Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, has confirmed that the final 164 kilometres of the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano expressway are scheduled for completion this November. During a meeting with the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) leadership, Umahi noted that the Federal Government has invested over N200 billion into this project, with more than 80 per cent of the costs for current phases already disbursed.
Highlighting the project as a key priority for President Bola Tinubu, the Minister stated that the highway spans 375 kilometres in each direction, totaling 750 kilometres. He emphasized that the government is fully committed to finalizing this strategic infrastructure.
To combat widespread vandalism and improve safety, Umahi announced plans to install solar streetlights and initiate a highway guard system. The Minister expressed concern regarding individuals dismantling concrete to steal construction rods. Furthermore, he noted the shift toward using concrete pavement for various national routes to ensure durability.
Umahi encouraged NANS and the broader youth population to act as monitors for federal projects, fostering accountability without resorting to contractor intimidation or blackmail. He also urged young people to prioritize skill acquisition and engage in substantive policy debates regarding the current administration’s progress rather than focusing on personality-driven politics.
NANS President Babatunde Akinteye praised the ongoing infrastructure improvements, noting that quality roads are essential for students traveling for academic purposes. The association formally named Umahi as a patron and expressed an interest in collaborating with the ministry to track the progress and impact of national road projects.
