The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, has directed contractors handling the Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano expressway to accelerate the pace of work to ensure timely completion of the ₦754 billion project.
Umahi issued the directive to Messrs Infiouest International Limited after a high-level meeting with Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, and representatives of the contracting firm in Abuja on Friday.
In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Barr. Orji Uchenna Orji, the minister emphasized that the road project remains a top priority of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
According to Umahi, the project comprises two major sections—Lot 1 valued at ₦252 billion and Lot 2 covering 164 kilometers in Kaduna State, costing ₦502 billion—bringing the total project value to ₦754 billion.
He directed the contractor to expand work zones between Jere and Kaduna and deploy teams to four sections simultaneously, while the Engineer Representative is to relocate to Kaduna to provide daily progress reports.
“We have been monitoring this project weekly,” Umahi said. “President Tinubu is deeply concerned about its completion, and the high-quality standard—similar to that used for the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway—will ensure lasting value. Our people in the North will never forget the President’s commitment to national development.”
Governor Uba Sani expressed satisfaction with the progress made, noting that the meeting reaffirmed confidence in the contractor’s capacity and the federal government’s commitment.
He described the Abuja–Kaduna–Kano highway as a crucial transport corridor linking about 12 states across the North West, North Central, and North East regions.
“This road is vital to our economy,” Sani said. “By the time it is completed, it will significantly ease movement and boost trade across multiple regions. I commend Engr. Umahi’s technical depth and hands-on supervision—Nigeria needs more public servants like him.”
In his remarks, the Managing Director of Infiouest International Limited, Mr. Joseph Abou Jaounde, assured the minister of full compliance with the directives.
“Despite some challenges, we are committed to meeting the two-week milestone. Our teams will ensure that all sections—from Zuba to Kaduna—are seamlessly connected, maintaining the required standards of quality and speed,” he stated.
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