From Abel Zwanke, Lafia
The Federal Government has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritizing the completion of the Shabu–Lafia–Makurdi Federal Highway bypass project in Lafia, while also praising China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) for its commitment to delivering the project within record time.
The commendation was conveyed on Thursday during a media tour of the project site. Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Works, David Umahi, the Federal Controller of Works, Engr. Manri Ishaku, expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work executed on the strategic corridor.
From Abandonment to 92% Completion
Engr. Ishaku explained that the bypass project, which connects Shabu in Lafia to the highway leading toward Makurdi in Benue State, was initially started by the previous administration but had been abandoned. President Tinubu revived the project shortly after it was presented to him, demonstrating strong political will for infrastructure development.
“In less than one year after the approval, the project is already nearing completion,” Engr. Ishaku stated. “The contractor, China Harbour Engineering Company, has kept to its promise. From what we have seen so far, the company can be trusted to deliver projects according to specification and within schedule.”
Strategic Impact on Traffic and Economy
The Nasarawa State Commissioner for Works also spoke during the inspection, noting that the bypass would significantly reduce traffic congestion within the Lafia metropolis. By redirecting long-distance transit away from the city center, the road is expected to improve connectivity between Nasarawa and neighboring states, facilitating the faster movement of goods and services.
Delivery Timeline
Giving a technical overview, the Site Engineer for China Harbour, Engr. Tijani Olalekan, revealed that the project has achieved remarkable speed. While the original contract duration was 48 months, the team has completed approximately 92 percent of the work within just 24 months.
“We’ll substantially complete the wearing course next week,” Engr. Olalekan added, expressing optimism that the entire project would be fully ready for commissioning by April 2026.
The bypass is a critical component of the larger regional transport network, and its imminent completion marks a major milestone in the federal government’s “Renewed Hope” infrastructure agenda for the North Central region.
