David Umahi, the Minister of Works, has announced that the proposed Abuja-Lagos highway will be completed within four years.
He said this during a press conference on Saturday.
The minister stated that the journey from Lagos to Abuja will only take 4 hours once the project is finished.
The highway’s construction is expected to take four years and will be made with concrete, which is more cost-effective than asphalt.
This project is a Public Private Partnership (PPP) and will be funded solely by the consortium in charge, with the federal government responsible for supervision.
He said:
“When I first introduced this to the public, many doubting Thomases were saying ‘it is impossible. That Lagos-Abuja that is done in 14 hours cannot be done in four and half-hours’. That is the renewed hope of Mr President”.
“The president has approved that I fast-track this project. This project is going to be two lanes, but each lane is going to be a two-carriage way and it is going to be 14 metres.
“The only carriageway that is equivalent to this is the third mainland bridge where each carriageway is 14 metres. It is going to be built on 275-millimeter thick concrete.”
The Minister mentioned that the design of the project is intended to last for 100 years.
Additionally, it will incorporate several bridges and tolling points as part of the infrastructure development.
“We are not putting any kobo but we will assist them in every direction. I give kudos to Advance Engineering Company, I am very satisfied with their concept and what they have put in place.
“So, the next thing is to bring the business proposal so we can negotiate on what the cost of the project is going to be. Then they go to the ministry of finance and negotiate on the issue of their money.
“The good thing is that we are building this road on concrete so we can predict the cost of this project. In asphalt, you cannot predict the cost. The cost of asphalt roads changes every month.”
The Minister of Works, Umahi, emphasized that concrete roads are more durable and cost-effective than asphalt.
He has directed that all ongoing projects that have not progressed beyond 80 percent completion should be finished using concrete.
This move aims to ensure the longevity and cost-effectiveness of road infrastructure projects.