The Nigerian government has renewed its commitment to completing the Abuja (Mararaba)-Keffi segment of the expansive Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Lafia-Makurdi dual carriageway on schedule. During an inspection tour on Saturday, 10th May 2025, the Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, along with Permanent Secretary Olufunsho O. Adebiyi and other senior officials, reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to infrastructure development.
The Minister explained that this stretch represents Phase I of the project, comprising a total of 87.3 kilometres for both carriageways. He stressed the strategic importance of the corridor, which forms part of the larger Abuja–Lafia–Makurdi–Enugu–Port Harcourt highway. The road aims to enhance mobility, reduce travel time, and stimulate economic activities across the Federal Capital Territory and six other states: Nasarawa, Benue, Enugu, Abia, Imo, and Rivers.
Goronyo expressed confidence in the progress made so far, with the project currently 42% complete. He reiterated the government’s goal to finish the entire stretch to Port Harcourt by June 2026, noting its potential to significantly impact the economy and improve the transport of goods and services across the country.
He further emphasised that funding would not be a barrier, stating the initiative benefits from a dedicated financial framework. “This is a priority project under a special funding arrangement. Once certified payment claims are submitted, the Ministry is ready to process and disburse funds without delay,” he affirmed.
The Federal Controller of Works for the FCT, Yakubu Usman, offered technical insight into the project, noting the design involves a two-way six-lane road with outer shoulders but initially lacked inner ones—a gap now being addressed to enhance safety and traffic flow. He confirmed that 80% of the stone base and binder course have already been laid, alongside progress on site clearing, scarification, median drains, and rigid shoulders.
Usman acknowledged the difficulties posed by the high population density and traffic congestion along the route. However, he highlighted effective coordination with the Federal Road Safety Corps and other relevant bodies to ensure smooth traffic management. To minimise daytime disruption, contractors have been working at night in the most affected areas.
Ronald Liao, Project Manager at China Harbour Engineering Company (Nig.) Ltd. (CHEC), voiced optimism about delivering the project on time. He credited the Ministry’s consistent support and the cooperation of stakeholders as crucial factors enabling adherence to the construction timeline and standards.