The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, recently conducted an on-site inspection of the ambitious Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano road reconstruction project, a central infrastructural initiative valued at approximately N761 billion. This major road upgrade aims to enhance connectivity across Northern Nigeria, linking key cities and facilitating trade and transportation on one of the country’s most strategic transport corridors.
In an inspection held on Saturday, September 20, 2025, Umahi provided detailed insights into the scale, progress, and timelines of the project. He highlighted that the completion timeframe for the three major sections of the project is set at 14 months. Sections 1 and 3 cover a combined length of 118 kilometers with a budget of N252 billion, while Section 2 spans approximately 72 kilometers and includes reinforced concrete works designed for durability. The total cost for Sections 1 and 2 amounts to N507 billion, with a 30 percent payment already disbursed, reflecting over N150 billion spent to date. When consolidated, the entire project to Kano is estimated to cost N761 billion.
Senator Umahi emphasized that the project, tagged as “Rebuilding Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Road by President Bola Tinubu,” enjoys full backing from the presidential office. “The President has shown immense passion for this infrastructure,” Umahi stated, praising the administration’s prioritization of road construction that meets modern engineering standards with longevity expected to last between 50 to 100 years.
The Minister also pointed to past challenges, referencing the initial contractor, Julius Berger Nigeria Ltd., from whom the contract was revoked due to disagreements including unacceptable delays. He assured that the project is now segmented into manageable parts to expedite completion while maintaining high structural and quality standards. “Before, it was construction that lasted for 10 years, but now, we are building roads,” Umahi remarked, signaling a shift to more efficient and effective road infrastructure development.
On-the-ground reactions have been generally positive from citizens who view this project as a long-overdue upgrade essential for safer and smoother travel on the heavily trafficked route. The road is not only critical for daily commuters but also pivotal for economic activities, linking agricultural zones and trade hubs to urban markets, thereby catalyzing regional development.
Experts in civil engineering note the dual approach of using reinforced concrete and flexible asphalt pavements as a balanced strategy balancing durability and adaptability to varying traffic loads and climatic conditions. The project also includes expansions at both ends of the corridor in Abuja and Kano to ensure seamless connectivity.
Looking ahead, Minister Umahi stressed strict adherence to the completion deadline, warning contractors who fail to meet milestones of potential investigations by anti-corruption agencies. “My integrity is at stake if we don’t complete the project in 14 months,” he remarked, underscoring the government’s zero-tolerance stance on delays and substandard work.
In summary, the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano road project represents a landmark infrastructural endeavor aimed at transforming a vital transport artery in Northern Nigeria. With strong federal government commitment, a clear timetable, and enhanced oversight, the project is poised to deliver a modern road that will support economic growth and improve the lives of millions of Nigerians. The next steps involve continuous monitoring of construction progress, ensuring quality control, and securing adherence to deadlines to realize the promise of lasting infrastructure that fosters national development.
