President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially launched the long-awaited reconstruction of the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano highway—one of Northern Nigeria’s most vital transport arteries, essential to the region’s economic and social development.
Speaking on behalf of President Tinubu during a flag-off ceremony held in Jere, Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State on Sunday, Governor Uba Sani highlighted the importance of the highway. He described it as a critical link between Nigeria’s capital and over a dozen states across the North Central, North West, and North East regions.
The governor lamented the years of neglect the highway has suffered, noting that its deteriorating condition has cost lives and stifled economic progress.
“This is the busiest highway in northern Nigeria, and the second busiest in the country after the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway,” said Governor Sani. “Reconstructing this road will not only ease transportation but also create jobs, boost security, and stimulate socio-economic growth across the region.”
Sani, a former senator, recalled his advocacy for the road’s rehabilitation, including engaging lawmakers, hosting public forums, and meeting directly with President Tinubu to emphasize the urgency.
“In response to the outcry from citizens and road users, I personally met with President Tinubu. He didn’t just listen—he acted. He immediately directed the Minister of Works to commence the project without delay,” the governor said.
According to Sani, apart from funding challenges, insecurity along the Kaduna-Abuja corridor had previously delayed the project. However, he credited the government’s non-violent approach to improving security with restoring safe travel along the route.
He praised National Security Adviser Malam Nuhu Ribadu for coordinating security agencies effectively and implementing the “Kaduna Peace Model,” which has significantly reduced threats along the highway.
In addition, Governor Sani revealed that President Tinubu has ordered accelerated work on other major federal road projects, including the long-stalled Eastern and Western Bypasses in Kaduna.
Also speaking at the event, Nigeria’s Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, assured the public that the 700-kilometer highway would be completed within 14 months and would feature concrete pavement for greater durability.
He added that the road’s design would match the standard of the new Lagos-Calabar coastal highway, and that the president had approved an additional 11 kilometers of road leading to Aminu Kano International Airport.
Umahi explained that the initial contract with Julius Berger was terminated and reassigned to a new contractor with a solid track record. “We’ve tested and confirmed their competence. I have no regrets awarding them this job,” he stated.
The Minister also announced that the reconstructed highway will be equipped with solar-powered street lighting and full CCTV surveillance throughout its length.
He further disclosed that President Tinubu has approved the completion of Sections 1 and 3—spanning 118 kilometers—at a cost of N252 billion (approximately $170 million USD), with 30% of the funds already disbursed.
Umahi applauded Governor Uba Sani for his dedication to ensuring the project’s launch, calling him “a smart and committed leader who has unified the people of Kaduna in support of the President and the ruling APC.”
