The Federal Government has expanded the scope of the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano highway project to include a direct link to the Aminu Kano International Airport, following a directive by President Bola Tinubu.
This development was disclosed by Minister of Works, David Umahi, during an interview on Arise TV, where he explained that the project’s Section 3 in Kano would now be extended by over 10 kilometers to connect directly to the airport. In addition, solar-powered streetlights are being installed along the entire 700-kilometer stretch of the road.
“The President directed that we include a link road at Section 3, connecting the end of the project in Kano to the Aminu Kano International Airport. We’ve extended the project by over 10 kilometers and added solar-powered lighting across the full length of the road,” Umahi said.
Contract Adjustments and Project History
The extension comes after the federal government terminated portions of the original contract with construction giant Julius Berger Nigeria Plc. According to Umahi, the original contract had delivered 480 kilometers over nearly eight years at a cost of N393 billion, based on pre-subsidy removal and pre-naira floatation economic conditions.
However, when the company later requested N1.1 trillion to complete the remaining section, the government found the figure excessive and unsustainable.
“Despite several rounds of negotiations over 14 months, Julius Berger didn’t adjust its pricing. We couldn’t justify the cost,” Umahi explained.
Revised Budget and Construction Updates
Following the contract termination, the government restructured the project, now budgeting over N800 billion for its completion. The new plan also includes the use of reinforced concrete pavement to improve the road’s longevity and durability.
Broader Implications
Umahi revealed that the decision to end Julius Berger’s involvement wasn’t isolated to this project. A similar action was taken on the Itu-Odukpani Road over unresolved disputes concerning pavement materials.
However, for high-priority infrastructure like the Bodo-Bonny Road, which is now 90% complete, presidential intervention ensured continued execution. That project’s funding was increased from N120 billion to N200 billion to accelerate delivery.
Despite the setbacks, Julius Berger still maintains its presence on other federal projects, including the Carter Bridge underwater construction, and the rehabilitation of Lagos’s Third Mainland and Iddo Bridges.
Umahi emphasized that all decisions were based on value-for-money assessments, with no political or personal influences involved.
