The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the timely completion of the Abuja (Mararaba)-Keffi section of the Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Lafia-Makurdi dual carriageway.

This commitment was reiterated during an inspection conducted on Saturday, May 10, by the Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, alongside the Permanent Secretary, Olufunsho Adebiyi, and other officials.

During the inspection, the minister confirmed that the project constitutes Section I of the contract, covering 43.65 kilometres on one side and totalling 87.3 kilometres for both carriageways.

This road corridor is a vital segment of the Abuja-Lafia-Makurdi-Enugu-Port Harcourt route, designed to enhance mobility, reduce travel time, and stimulate economic activities across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nasarawa, Benue, Enugu, Abia, Imo, and Rivers States.

Goronyo expressed satisfaction with the current pace of work, which has achieved 42 per cent completion. He remained optimistic that the project would meet its June 2026 deadline, assuring Nigerians of the Federal Government’s commitment to delivering transformative infrastructure that enhances economic growth, improves regional connectivity, and uplifts the quality of life.

The minister commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritising critical infrastructure that will significantly boost the national economy and facilitate the movement of goods and services.

Goronyo also assured that funding would not hinder the project’s execution, emphasising that the Ministry is prepared to process and disburse funds promptly upon receiving certified claims.

The Federal Controller of Works for the FCT, Yakubu Usman, provided a technical update on the project, highlighting the two-way six-lane structure with outer shoulders but no inner shoulders. The reconstruction is aimed at improving traffic flow and safety.

According to Usman, site clearing, scarification, stone base, and binder course works are at 80 per cent completion, while work on the median drains and rigid shoulders is advancing.

Acknowledging the challenges posed by high traffic and densely populated areas along the corridor, the Controller mentioned collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and other law enforcement agencies to ensure smooth traffic flow.

To minimise daytime disturbances, the contractor has resorted to working only at night in critical areas.

The Project Manager of China Harbour Engineering Company (Nig.) Ltd. (CHEC), Mr Ronald Liao, expressed confidence that with continued support from the Ministry and relevant stakeholders, the project would be delivered on time and according to design.