Nigerian govt signs MoUs, contracts for eight major road projects nationwide
Federal Government Signs Agreements for Eight Major Road Projects
Abuja — The Federal Government has finalized Memoranda of Understanding and contract agreements for eight significant road projects nationwide, marking a pivotal step in efforts to enhance Nigeria’s road infrastructure.
The signing ceremony occurred at the Ministry of Works headquarters in Abuja, drawing government officials, contractors, and stakeholders. This event has been highlighted as a key milestone in President Bola Tinubu’s initiative to modernize the country’s infrastructure and stimulate economic growth through strategic investments.
Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, characterized the projects as part of the ongoing legacy of President Tinubu’s administration. He emphasized their importance for the South-East region, noting the government has secured the first phase of the Calabar-Ebonyi-Abuja Super Highway, a 123-kilometre single carriageway that runs from Calabar to the Benue border.
Umahi added that the newly signed section would extend an additional 173 kilometres through Benue, Kogi, and Nasarawa states, concluding at the Oweto Bridge. He also announced plans for a second carriageway extending approximately 300 kilometres from Ndibe Beach to Oweto in Nasarawa State.
The minister projected that these developments would significantly shorten travel times between the South-East and Abuja while promoting economic activity in the region.
Umahi noted that five companies competed for the project, with INFOUEST being selected through a transparent procurement process. He addressed the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, stating that the project has gained national recognition since its inception.
“Many were skeptical about the 750-kilometre coastal highway, but it has become a symbol of progress,” Umahi said. He indicated that by November, motorists would be able to travel from Ahmadu Bello Way in Lagos to Ondo State on completed portions of the highway.
The minister described the coastal highway as a long-term investment, asserting that it would require minimal maintenance for decades. He praised HITEC Construction Company for its capability and commitment, citing the company’s ability to construct up to one kilometre of road daily.
Umahi detailed that the projects would incorporate extensive drainage systems and reinforced pavement, highlighting an estimated average cost of N7.5 billion per kilometre for a standard carriageway. He confirmed strong investor interest in the completed sections of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.
The projects also include sections of the Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway, the Akwanga-Jos-Bauchi-Gombe-Biu-Maiduguri Road, and various road reconstructions across Kaduna, Osun, and Oyo States.
Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Works, Mr. Rafiu Olarinre Adeladan, referred to the signing as the completion of the procurement phase and the initiation of project implementation.
In response, Chief Executive Officer of HITEC Construction Company, Dany Abboud, assured the government of timely and quality execution of the projects, pledging to deliver ahead of the specified timelines.
As the Federal Government commits to providing 30 percent counterpart funding for the projects, Umahi emphasized that 70 percent would be sourced through loans, ensuring strategic land acquisition and tolling to guarantee long-term investment returns.
