FEDERAL GOVERNMENT COMMENDS PROGRESS ON ABUJA-KADUNA ROAD, SECTION I, PHASE 1

The Honourable Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, Esq., expressed his satisfaction with the progress and quality of work on the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano Road (Zuba Section). He commended the contractor, Messrs Infiouest (Nig.) Limited for its professionalism and alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda.

During an inspection tour, the Minister announced that approximately six (6) kilometres-three (3) kilometres on each side had already been completed using reinforced rigid concrete pavement. “The quality of work delivered so far reflects the President’s unwavering commitment to national development through robust infrastructure,” he stated.

He praised the dedication of the workforce and the use of modern equipment, saying, “The commitment of the workers is commendable. I salute their resilience and their support for Mr. President's vision. “The Minister emphasized that once completed, the road will reduce travel time, improve safety, curb insecurity, enhance trade, and create employment opportunities.

Regarding the quality of construction materials, the Minister remarked, “What we are seeing here is superb. The reinforced rigid pavement is expected to last 50 to 100 years superior to conventional asphalt.”

Mr. Robert Turner, the Project Manager and Representative of the construction company reaffirmed its commitment to delivering a world-class project. “There are no shortcuts. We are giving our very best to achieve the project’s goals,” he stated.

Turner highlighted that the team operates daily from 6:00 a.m. to as late as 9:00 p.m., constrained only by security concerns along the corridor. “We have a spirited and dedicated team. Despite challenges, we are fully focused on delivering this critical project within record time,” he added.

Earlier in his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Works, Engr. Olufunsho O. Adebiyi, emphasised the strategic importance of adopting rigid pavement technology, especially given Nigeria’s soil composition, water table level, and high axle loads. “Rigid pavement is new to Nigeria, but it has become necessary due to the consistent failure of flexible pavements under our local conditions,” he explained.

He cited previous challenges with bitumen and cement interactions that compromise flexible pavements, particularly in high-traffic corridors like the Apapa-Oworonshoki Expressway in Lagos state. “This new method, reinforced with Y20 steel bars at 200mm centres, is stronger than most bridge decks,” he noted. Adding that “It is a sustainable solution that will outlast many of us and withstand the test of time.”

Engr. Adebiyi urged road users to be patient during the construction period, assuring them that the phased opening of completed sections will help minimize disruptions. “We understand the temporary discomfort, but in the end, this road will significantly improve lives and the economy.”

The Zuba section of the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano road remains a critical link in Nigeria’s transport network, and the Federal Government has reaffirmed its determination to ensure its successful and timely delivery.