Federal Government Says Abuja-Kaduna-Kano Road To be Ready In 14 Months

The Abuja-Kaduna-Kano thoroughfare is set for completion within a 14-month timeline, according to the Federal Government. This dual carriageway, segmented into three distinct portions—Abuja to Kaduna, Kaduna to Zaria, and Zaria to Kano—has garnered significant attention due to its pivotal role in Nigeria’s infrastructural development.
Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, revealed this commitment during the unveiling of rehabilitation efforts for Section 1, encompassing the stretch from Abuja to Kaduna, on Thursday. Idris underscored the project’s scope, which involves the reclamation of the existing bituminous surface, transforming it into sub-base material, and addressing embankment deficiencies.
Key elements of the initiative include the deployment of approved crushed rock layers, calibrated to a thickness of 100 millimeters with three percent stabilization for the shoulders and carriageway. Additionally, reinforced concrete-lined drains and hydraulic installations are being incorporated, complemented by median barriers and drains where required. The carriageway and shoulders will also feature Continuously Reinforced Concrete Pavement (CRCP) with a 200-millimeter thickness, ensuring durability and structural integrity.
Idris highlighted the decisive actions taken under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, including terminating the contract with the previous contractor, who projected a three-year completion timeline. He affirmed that Tinubu’s administration remains resolute in delivering the project within 14 months, a testament to its dedication to addressing infrastructural challenges with urgency and precision.
“This administration has no tolerance for delays. The President has mandated a strict timeline, and the National Assembly has pledged its unwavering support. The collective resolve is to see this project through, delivering a state-of-the-art roadway from Abuja to Kano in record time,” Idris stated.
Further elaboration by the Minister of Works, David Umahi, provided insights into additional extensions. These include a link to the Aminu Kano International Airport and a five-kilometer expansion at the Abuja-Lokoja axis. Umahi noted that Section 1 begins at Zuba Junction, traversing the Zuba Interchange, and culminates at Kaduna Western Bypass. The project also incorporates solar-powered illumination, promising a lifespan of 50 to 100 years for the infrastructure.
Umahi addressed the degradation of the current pavement, citing extensive wear and tear manifesting as alligator cracks, corrugations, potholes, and inadequate drainage systems. Emergency interventions are already underway across four stretches of the route, aiming to mitigate user hardships while expediting the comprehensive overhaul.
In summation, this ambitious undertaking symbolizes a transformative stride in Nigeria’s infrastructural agenda. The renewed focus on quality, efficiency, and sustainability underpins the government’s unwavering commitment to improving the nation’s transport network.